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
13 hires on Lessons
29+ 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
55+ 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
Christian Poezach

Christian Poezach

5.0(4)
4 hires on Lessons
31+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Leah G. says, "i’ve absolutely loved my time taking drum lessons! christian is very patient and agrees to work on whatever i want to. he gave me lots of drills to practice at home and always wants to make me better. best teacher!!!" Read more
Angel Diva Music And Acting

Angel Diva Music And Acting

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

Chris Harris

5.0(1)
Offers online services
5+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Pasha A. says, "Chris is very patient and attentive. I already learned so much in a short amount of time. As a novice and without any musical background, he made me very at ease uncomfortable since day one. 100% recommend!" 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
Jacob Abinante

Jacob Abinante

New on Lessons
11+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Hi I’m a jazz pianist and music composer with a music degree from Cal State Northridge. I have a lot to offer the motivated music student. We will mix the needed fundamentals with seeing you make progress towards your fun goals as well.
Jim Avakian Music

Jim Avakian Music

New on Lessons
Offers online services
24+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Lessons are custom tailored for students needs. I believe the best learning to be experiential and inspired, if you’re inspired, you will practice! My goal is to inspire and encourage expression in the art form of playing piano, to bring out the student’s own natural musicality and self-expression. I want the student to really enjoy the learning experience! I use a combination of techniques in my lessons that coordinates the mind, hand, fingers, and spirit. I will cover sound foundation skills such as: Technique, Sight Reading, Rhythm Development, Theory, Exercises for Finger Development and Control, Improvisation, & Musicianship. Getting ...
Piano Lessons By Alexandra Burch

Piano Lessons By Alexandra Burch

New on Lessons
Offers online services
5+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Welcome! I am a graduate student at USC’s Thornton School of Music, one of the leading music conservatories in the country. I have won top prizes in over 15 piano competitions around the world. As a piano teacher, my priority is for my students to cultivate an interest and passion for music. I strive to enrich all my students to play with joy and self-confidence while tailoring every lesson to be a suitable fit for each individual student. I emphasize a strong balance of technique and expressive playing through the introduction of various technical exercises and repertoire specifically selected for each student’s learning style and abilities
Drum Lessons With Eric Ching

Drum Lessons With Eric Ching

New on Lessons
Offers online services
1 hire on Lessons
11+ 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 Instagram: www.instagram.com/ericchingdrums Bio: w

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
Stephanie F.
I am learning a lot with Christian and feeling more confident behind the kit!
Christian Poezach
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
R. Y.
Birute is always positive, and her criticisms are constructive ones. I would recommend her teaching to any student.
birute sinkeviciute
Laura H.
I decided to take piano lessons in my senior citizen years after not having played since I was a child. Deborah's patience and encouragement during weekly lessons have given me great confidence. She guides me through each piece carefully focusing on techniques to help me improve. I also think her selection of music books and practice exercises are appropriate for my abilty. And , she gently challenges me with more difficult pieces as I become more comfortable and capable. I would highly recommend Deborah to anyone regardless of age who wants to learn how to play the piano .
Deborah Sealove Piano Lessons
Denton L.
Does a great job at connecting with me. He’s really knowledgable in music and the way he teaches makes every step forward a lot easier process. He’s patient and knows how to adapt to each student to get the very best out of them.
Live Online Music Lessons w/ Jeff Brent
Richard C.
i started with leon 7 years ago. i have a great time each week. i have through his ability to teach me guitar, done something i have always wanted...To play guitar and enjoy. He is a great teacher. When you read his profile, he has played and traveled with some of the best musicians on the planet.I feel i am in the presence of greatness, yet he is humble about his past musical life. By choosing Leon Rubenhold, you are learning from one of the best. Make it your choice!
Leon Rubenhold Guitar/Harmonica Lessons/GuitarFace Productions
Cheryl N.
Arif is patient with my children and inspires. He lets them know their strengths, which empowered them to take their lessons seriously.
Arif Shakir Piano
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