Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.
How much do music lessons cost?
Music lessons cost$40 to $90 per hour. Most teachers offer weekly lessons in order to provide regular feedback, keep students motivated, and provide enough opportunities to learn new techniques and pieces of music. More frequent lessons do not provide enough time to practice and master skills between lessons.
To save money on music lessons consider group lessons, which are often cheaper than private lessons and allow you to learn from other students. Another option is to take online lessons which tend to be more affordable than in-person lessons and can be a great way to learn from a qualified teacher that isn't local. Finally, look for scholarships or grants to help pay for music lessons.
At what age can you start music lessons?
The best age to start music lessons depends on the individual and their interests. Most experts agree that children can start learning music as early as 3 or 4 years old when they can communicate and follow instructions. There is no age that is too late to take music lessons – even seniors can benefit from learning or improving their musical skills.
Studies have shown that children who are exposed to music at an early age have better language skills, memory, and problem-solving skills. Music lessons help improve fine motor skills like hand-eye coordination and finger dexterity which are important for other activities like writing and drawing. Learning to play an instrument can also build a child's self-confidence and help to develop a child's creativity.
How long does it take to learn an instrument?
The amount of time it takes to learn an instrument depends on the instrument, the student's age, and the amount of time they practice. In general, it takes several months to a year to learn the basics of most instruments including how to read music and play basic scales and chords. With regular practice, students can expect to play simple songs within a few months.
Piano, guitar, and percussion instruments are some of the easier instruments to learn. Strings and horn instruments take a bit longer to learn. Becoming proficient at any instrument takes several years of lessons and regular practice.
Do I need an instrument at home to take music lessons?
No, you do not need an instrument at home to take music lessons, but it does make it easier to practice and improve your skills. Without an instrument at home, you will need to find an instrument to practice between lessons if you hope to improve.
Before investing in any musical instrument, you will want to talk with the music teacher to find the instrument that is right for you. Guitars are a popular instrument for beginners since they are relatively inexpensive to buy. The flute is another simple instrument to learn and is a good choice for students who want to learn to play an instrument quickly. Pianos are a more costly instrument but are a popular choice for families since everyone can enjoy playing the same instrument.
How do online music lessons work?
Online music lessons are similar to in-person lessons, only the teacher and student are not in the same physical location. Using video conferencing platforms such as Skype or Zoom, the teacher and students can communicate with each other from the privacy of their homes.
In order to take advantage of the affordable online lessons, you need a computer and internet connection with good audio and video quality to avoid frustration. The teacher and student join the video call and the lesson proceeds in the same way they would for an in-person lesson. Online music lessons require more focus and patience and are not suggested for very young students.
What questions should I ask a music teacher?
Here are some important questions you should ask a music teacher before you start taking lessons:
What is your teaching style?
What is your experience teaching music?
What are your rates?
How long are your lessons?
What is your availability?
What are your expectations for students?
Can you provide references from your current and past students?
How do I choose a music teacher?
Choosing a qualified music teacher is important for those wanting to learn or develop their musical skills. Find a teacher that fits your schedule, budget, and learning style by following these recommendations:
Look for a teacher with a degree in music or years of experience teaching your preferred instrument.
Make sure the teacher with a teaching style that suits you. For example, if you learn better with a more formal teacher that focuses on technique, don't choose a teacher that is more relaxed and focuses on creative, free-style playing.
Find a teacher that is affordable for your budget and has availability for lessons that fit your schedule.
Confirm that the teacher will help you reach your goals whether it is to learn a new instrument, read music, learn music theory, or just have fun.How do I choose a music teacher?
Reviews for Scottsdale music classes
Recent success stories from people in the Scottsdale area.
Barbara B.
I like the results! As I grew older I realized I needed help keeping my voice "young." Once I got to a stronger place vocally I've kept up my training with him on a regular basis. His patience, his knowledge of the voice, and his amazing studio keep me coming back.
Bonfanti’s Voice Studio
Andy H.
Traveling Music Lessons made scheduling lessons so easy. Super quick response- friendly and so helpful! Our teacher was great!
Traveling Music Lessons - In person in your home!
Cyril
Carli is a wonderful music teacher all around! I had my first ever voice lesson with her and she created a really safe space for learning, has a holistic set of techniques, and the expertise to teach at a range of levels. Highly recommend!
Voice with Carli
Tamicka J.
As a beginner - adult student (age39) Linda Pearl Allen is the best. She is such a pleasure to work with! She is very knowledgeable, friendly, and extremely patient. She starts by creating lessons based on your induvial weakness/interest, and then advance from there. Working full time I love that her schedule is very flexible also. Over the years I've tried to teach myself thru self taught books and videos, and would often get distracted and overwhelmed. Having that person to person interaction with Linda helps me stay focus and makes learning the piano simple and fun. I've always had a passion to learn the piano/keyboards and it's nice to see it actually evolving Thanks to Linda!
.Pearl-Allen Studios
Jacob B.
Dr. Park is not only an incredible cellist but the best cello teacher you could hope for. He guides you to improve technically and musically, asking questions along the way so that his students have their own realizations and each form their own musical identity. His Socratic approach meant that I always left my lessons feeling inspired and even more fascinated about music than before.
Dr. Yeil Park
Charlotte M.
Friendly, easy going, knowledgable
Jam On Guitar Lessons.. Online lessons as well
Yong W.
"My dream was to be able to play guitar like a rock star. A few years ago, I decided to give that a try. From the very beginning, I knew that I could never learn how to play guitar using those self-taught methods taught through books or videos. Michael Daniel was the first and the only guitar instructor I worked with.
After our first meeting, I knew he was the right guy and there was no need for me to seek another. Michael is an extremely talented musician with a sincere interest in teaching. His lessons offer a cohesive and measurable program of study tailored to address the student’s weaknesses within the framework of their personal interests and objectives.
In the six years I’ve been studying with Michael, I have never disappointed. I was a newbie when I first met him and didn’t even know how to hold a guitar correctly. In just few months, I was able to play one of the songs I brought to him. Along the way he had taught me everything from basic chords, to lead soloing techniques, to music theory that I can use to write my own music.Today, I have developed solid skills in both lead and rhythm playing, and is able to play different guitar parts from an incredible variety of song collections from those of Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, Bon Jovi, Bob Dylan to Zeppelin and many others.
As far as I can tell, Michael is incredibly knowledgeable in virtually all aspects of the instrument, from technique to theory to song composition, and he knows how to teach to keep you engaged and excited about what you’re doing. He also has unbelievable ear hearing and can transcribe any song into a guitar tab for you to play with your favorite guitarists.
Bottom line — if you think you need guitar lessons, come to visit Michael. He has helped to make my music dream come true. He can do the same to you too!"
Point Studios
Yesha P.
Knowledgeable, feiendly
Natasha's Piano Studio
How Lessons.com works
Search
Search, get cost estimates, contact teachers, and book—all for free.
Compare
View profiles, read reviews, check qualifications, and see prices before hiring.
Hire
Ask questions, confirm their availability, and hire the right tutor when you're ready.