Find a music lesson in Santa Monica, CA

Find music lessons in Santa Monica, CA

Find music lessons in Santa Monica, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best music classes in your area.
Zip code

Find music lessons in Santa Monica, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best music classes in your area.
Zip code

Top 10 music classes in Santa Monica, CA

Students agree: these Santa Monica music lessons are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
McLeod Management & Debbie McLeod Productions

McLeod Management & Debbie McLeod Productions

5.0Exceptional(6)
Offers online services
12 hires on Lessons
28+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Gabrielle C. says, "Debbie single-handedly helped me land my starring role on South of Nowhere. 16 years later, we are still coaching/booking leading roles in tv, film, and commercials! A phenomenal coach, Deb has the gift to see what we are truly capable of as artists, as well as the honesty, instinct and passion to push us to be brave enough to go there. I can unequivocally say that Deb is the best acting coach in the business, and I’m eternally grateful to have found her." Read more
Cornerstone Music Conservatory

Cornerstone Music Conservatory

5.0(1)
Offers online services
1 hire on Lessons
54+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
F T. says, "Commitment to quality music of all genres, including Classical, which is my focus. Well-organized business that makes scheduling simple. Reception staff is exceptional. Director of the school is most experienced in the area, and infuses dedication in all the students. My piano instructor is superbly qualified and has been a gem to work with. A place where I trusted my children's music education from their small childhood through high school." Read more
Voice Studio Of David Way

Voice Studio Of David Way

5.0Exceptional(7)
Offers online services
8 hires on Lessons
18+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Kathleen T. says, "David is extremely knowledgeable about what he’s doing. He not only works to help your voice sound the best it can, he also develops your grasp of the mechanics of your vocal cords, so you know WHY you sound good and are therefore able to use your instrument to the best of its ability. He also has a great sense of humor!! You won’t be disappointed!" Read more
Birute Sinkeviciute

Birute Sinkeviciute

5.0(2)
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Cathy D. says, "First of all, I just wanted to say that I really liked your teaching style. I felt that you were passionate and committed to teaching kids at the level that they understand, and I think that is great. I think you are very kind, talented with your craft, and patient. You are a gem of a teacher." Read more
Kevin Katich Drum Lessons

Kevin Katich Drum Lessons

5.0Exceptional(13)
Offers online services
16+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Susan T. says, "Kevin is a master musician and an awesome instructor. He has an easy-going, friendly, encouraging presence, while also being rigorous in making sure his students learn both skills and artistry. He's focused on the joy of making music and the importance of practice and muscle memory. Because he also works as an engineer, he can help drummers understand how their playing will fit into a band or an ensemble. He encourages his students to explore improvisation and other forms of percussion. Best of all, he's hilarious, and there's not much my 13-year-old son enjoys more than his drum lessons with Kevin. We couldn't recommend him more highly." Read more
Noel's Guitar Lessons

Noel's Guitar Lessons

5.0Exceptional(7)
Offers online services
3 hires on Lessons
8+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
B P. says, "Mr. Kim has been amazing! He’s super patient, encouraging, and explains things in a way that really clicks. My son started as a beginner and has improved so much in just a couple of months. He even looks forward to practicing now. We couldn’t ask for a better teacher!" Read more
Angel Diva Music And Acting

Angel Diva Music And Acting

5.0(4)
Offers online services
16 hires on Lessons
25+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Richard M. says, "Her patience!" Read more
Blake Paulson

Blake Paulson

5.0Exceptional(5)
Offers online services
24+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Sophia W. says, " Blake is not only an extremely talented drum player, he is also very knowledgeable of the contemporary music industry! He's always quick to help and support his students in any way he can. He is an incredibly kind, patient, fun, and encouraging teacher!! Every lesson is a pleasure with him and I highly recommend learning from Blake :)" Read more
Paul's Music Lessons And More..

Paul's Music Lessons And More..

5.0(1)
Offers online services
3 hires on Lessons
24+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Phil R. says, "I need work on improvisation, and Paul is an outstanding teacher. My comfort level had increased greatly, particularly with the 12 bar blues, and right now we're working on rhythm changes. It's a challenge, but he's getting me there!" Read more
Drum Lessons With Eric Ching

Drum Lessons With Eric Ching

New on Lessons
Offers online services
10+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
I studied Music Education at New York University so you can trust that you're working with a trained professional and I've been teaching for the past 10 years. While I specialize in jazz, I teach all styes including blues, rock, pop, R&B, funk, soul, and classical percussion. Through your favorite songs, we will develop your technique, reading, improvisation, and soloing so that you can play with purpose and ease. I'm ready and available to solve any sort of musical problems that you might have so that you can have as much fun as possible while playing! Music: www.ericchingdrums.com/music Bio: www.ericchingdrums.com/about

Your Music Lessons questions, answered

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 Santa Monica music classes

Recent success stories from people in the Santa Monica area.
Teri D.
There aren’t enough stars to give Debbie the review she deserves! Her vast experience and enthusiasm for her craft are invaluable. Debbie is professional and compassionate and truly cares about my daughter and her journey into the world of acting. Lessons with Debbie have resulted in more confidence and a solid foundation to continue building upon.
McLeod Management & Debbie McLeod Productions
Michele S.
In 1984 I was in a bad car wreck. The resulting coma left me with a severely monotone voice for years. I worked with speech -therapists and later professional singers. I had nearly given up! I discovered David Way just before the pandemic, his education and experience were evident I was impressed with the way he evaluated my abilities and deficits. He spent time coming up with a plan. When we started working together I could only sing five notes; now I’m able to sing two octaves easily! His talent is impressive…
Voice Studio of David Way
R. Y.
Birute is always positive, and her criticisms are constructive ones. I would recommend her teaching to any student.
birute sinkeviciute
-Bruce B.
"Kevin Katich is fucking amazing!"
Kevin Katich drum lessons
Brandon G.
Noel is an amazing player and teacher, together we have worked on proper technique, ear training, music theory, composition, and various practice methods. Since meeting him I have become a much better guitar player, and overall musician. My favorite part about working with him is his ability to learn any song by ear within minutes, which we can then dissect together. He is truly the full package, and I strongly recommend him to any student, beginner, or professional looking to improve. Very grateful to have met him, and am looking forward to taking lessons for the foreseeable future!
Noel's Guitar Lessons
Patrick M.
Jan has been nothing short of a great teacher and friend to me. Shes critical on where you need to improve and encouraging with your strengths! If you're looking for a teacher with lots of personality, stories, and drive to help you further yourself; you're in the right place.
Angel Diva Music and Acting
Diane M.
Blake is an amazing musician and an exceptional drum instructor. I've been taking lessons with him for a few months, and I'm inspired by his knowledge and passion for drumming. He has a very effective approach to methods of teaching, and he keeps me challenged while helping me to move forward quickly. I was impressed with his awesome studio in N. Hollywood. It's clean, organized, and the the most practical setting for learning. He's also given me advice on selecting drum equipment, drum tuning, how to approach practicing, and overcoming obstacles. Blake is positive, patient, encouraging, and makes learning the drums extremely enjoyable! I look forward to my lessons each week, and I would highly recommend Blake for drum instruction!
Blake Paulson
Ava R.
I am 7 years old and I had Rogelio once for my piano teacher. He was so much fun! He is so kind. He is one of the best teachers in the world! He is really good at teaching piano. I miss playing music with Rogelio. He always makes me happy.
Resonance - Home of Musical Development
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