Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.com.
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 Burbank music classes
Recent success stories from people in the Burbank area.
Christine R.
Ben is an outstanding music educator and mentor. My son, Isaac, started with him a year ago and has grown by leaps and bounds. Ben is knowledgeable, supportive, and patient, and he approaches each lesson and question with the utmost professionalism. He has worked consistently with Isaac toward his college and career goals by pushing and challenging him to not only improve on his preferred style, but also has encouraged him to branch into different musical genres to make him a more well-rounded artist. We feel so fortunate to have found Ben, and we cannot say enough about how much we appreciate his involvement in Isaac’s musical journey.
Shred With Ben - Guitar Lessons with Ben Cohen
Camila A.
Exelente profesor las mejores clases de piano que he tenido! Me encanta
Edwin Barreto
Daniel M.
Daniel Lessner is undoubtedly the best music teacher I have ever had. I have been a pianist for more than 20 years and have been studying with Daniel for the last 4. His passion for the piano is unmatched and infectious. His teaching style is clear, focused, and highly practical. He explains not only the technical aspects of each piano piece, but also the musical aspects and the composer's intentions. With his guidance I've been able to learn pieces such as Rachmaninoff Concerto 2 and Chopin Ballades 1, 2, and 3. I highly recommend Daniel as a teacher to pianists of any level, and especially those who are looking to elevate their piano playing to the next level.
Daniel Lessner - piano lessons
Colin F.
They come to you and make learning so convenient! It's the best way to learn any instrument. They have the best list of instructors and are so easy to work with!
Traveling Music Lessons, CA
Aritina L.
Within ONE lesson, Howard could pinpoint EXACTLY what my trouble areas are, and not only is he able to articulate a very clear plan for dealing with those, but he has also helped me with the burdening amount of pain that plagues my joints and muscles when I play something technically demanding! Furthermore, he is very focused, understanding, knowledgeable and gentle! After having many verbally.... difficult teachers whose teaching involved quite a bit of negative reinforcement, it is an absolute pleasure and an eye opening experience to have a patient, understanding teacher. Some people may learn quite well in that fashion, and there was a period of time when I actually believed, or rather was brainwashed into thinking that being verbally berated would serve as motivation. But now I see quite clearly that is not the case: I learn a lot better and I am more motivated to practice when I find it a pleasure to go to my piano lessons! Thank you, Howard for all your dedication, patience and knowledge!
Richman Music School
C. L.
I am so incredibly thankful for all that you have shown and taught me about music and being a musician. You've been a great teacher since day one.
Virtual Music Lessons - Trumpet and Theory
Michael J.
Jeff is an extremely talented, knowledgeable multi instrumentalist who also has the gift of being a patient and entertaining teacher.. in the time that I have spent with him, I have not come away from one session that has not, in varying degrees, improved my understanding of and playing ability on my instrument.
Live Online Music Lessons w/ Jeff Brent
Garima
I had never done anything musical before deciding to take voice lessons with Rickie. I was so nervous but she made me feel so comfortable and helped me really learn technique, find my voice and confidence and fall in love with singing. I moved away and miss my lessons with Rickie so much!
Rickie Gole, Vocal Lessons
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