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.
Christian Poezach

Christian Poezach

5.0(4)
4 hires on Lessons
30+ 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
Leon Rubenhold Guitar/Harmonica Lessons/GuitarFace Productions

Leon Rubenhold Guitar/Harmonica Lessons/GuitarFace Productions

5.0(4)
Offers online services
7 hires on Lessons
24+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Melvin V. says, "Leon is a great player and teacher as well. He has a lifetime of experience, He has played with many big name acts and knows many people in the music business. He knows tons of songs and can easily figure out new music on the spot. He has a great ear for music. He can comp, improvise and arrange with minimal effort. Leon is highly recommended." Read more
Traveling Music Lessons, CA

Traveling Music Lessons, CA

5.0Exceptional(5)
Offers online services
25 hires on Lessons
21+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Colin F. says, "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!" 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
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
Witmer Studios

Witmer Studios

5.0Exceptional(5)
2 hires on Lessons
23+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
April W. says, "Professional " 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
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
Rob Steiner Music

Rob Steiner Music

5.0(3)
Offers online services
6 hires on Lessons
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Sunita B. says, "Rob is lovely! He is great with my kids they enjoy his teaching style which really focuses on the individual child’s interests and this motivates them to learn and have fun at the same time! He also is a great at providing detailed information on how the kids are doing which helps to see how they are progressing from a parents perspective. BIG fans! Thanks Rob! " Read more
Resonance - Home Of Musical Development

Resonance - Home Of Musical Development

5.0Exceptional(5)
Offers online services
1 hire on Lessons
7+ years in business
Serves Santa Monica, CA
Susan S. says, "I studied under Rogelio under a different school, prior to Academia Phonation Foundation. I signed up for voice lessons September 2019, in preparation for returning to a choir. I don’t play the piano and was concerned I’d struggle learning music on my own. I hesitated as the school seemed geared toward children but was assured, they also had adult students. The first evening I met with Rogelio I was immediately put at ease. He was eager to ensure I felt comfortable and got what I needed from our weekly lessons. We worked together weekly both focusing on my choir music trouble spots but also taking the time to find my solo voice. Unfortunately, we only had 5 months of in-person learning until COVID shutdown not only the school but my choir. I hesitated to continue voice lessons but decided to give virtual learning a try. That turned out to be a great decision and Rogelio was very patient with the process. He pushed me out of my comfort zone and had me work on solo pieces I would never have dreamed of otherwise. I spent the summer learning “Oh Thou That Tellest Good Tidings” and “But Who May Abide the Day of His Coming” from Handel’s Messiah. I am selfishly sad to know I will not be working with him much longer, but I’m excited for him to have new opportunities. It has been a blessing to work with him and I’m a better musician for it. " Read more

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.
Stephanie F.
I am learning a lot with Christian and feeling more confident behind the kit!
Christian Poezach
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
Jo Y.
My daughter is learning new skills so I really appreciate the time my teacher is spending to develop these new modalities while she is young. Highly recommend.
Traveling Music Lessons, CA
R. Y.
Birute is always positive, and her criticisms are constructive ones. I would recommend her teaching to any student.
birute sinkeviciute
Steven N.
I contacted Matthew Witmer for viola lessons on the recommendation of listings for instructors in LA. When I met Matthew, although I had played keyboards and could read music, I had never played a string instrument. From the very start, Matthew was very patient. He also was very clear in giving directions. He's encouraging, and he's really good with people. I recommend him most highly!
Witmer Studios
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
-Bruce B.
"Kevin Katich is fucking amazing!"
Kevin Katich drum lessons
Howard B.
Really nice guy. Very impressive background.
Rob Steiner Music
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