Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.com.
How much are piano lessons?
Piano lessons cost $40 to $80 per hour, depending on the location, their experience level, and session length. A piano lesson package costs $180 to $350 for five 1-hour lessons. Children's piano lessons and online lessons often cost less than average.
Piano lessons are available for all ages in most cities in the country. Music instructors teach:
Music theory
Sight-reading
Improvisation
How to improve playing or technique
At what age should you start piano lessons?
The best age to start piano lessons is 5 to 9 years, though learning how to play the piano doesn't have an age limit. Playing the piano strengthens fine motor skills, increases flexibility, and improves your memory no matter how old you are.
Are piano lessons worth it?
Piano lessons are worth the money and effort invested over time. Playing an instrument can be beneficial for mental health, and cognitive strength. For smaller budgets, book just a few lessons to get the basics down and continue on your own.
How long are piano lessons?
Piano lessons for beginners or children are typically 30 to 45 minutes per session. Intermediate or advanced lessons are 45 to 60+ minutes per session. Most people have 1 to 2 lessons per week.
Can you learn to play piano online?
Yes, you can learn to play piano online through a webcam or virtual tutorials. Search our list of online piano teacher near you to find an instructor. Online piano lessons are often more convenient than in-person lessons and cost 20% less on average.
How do I select a piano teacher?
Start by searching our list of piano teachers, then:
Get at least three free estimates to compare.
Read reviews on Lessons and Google if possible.
Ask for references from current or recent students.
Make sure they are kind and personable, especially when with children.
Get a written estimate and schedule before the first lesson.
Avoid making a large payment up front. Follow a payment plan instead.
After asking questions and browsing reviews, hire the best piano instructor in your area.
What questions should I ask piano instructors?
When hiring piano teachers near you, ask the following questions:
How long have you been teaching piano?
Do you have a degree in music?
What age do you typically teach?
What genre of piano do you specialize in?
Will you give me a contract or payment arrangement in writing?
Will you allow me to choose some or all of the songs we practice?
Reviews for Santa Monica piano teachers
Recent success stories from people in the Santa Monica area.
Emma D.
Jacob is very patient, skilled, and highly informed in music theory. I learned so much and we made a lot of progress in just one lesson. Definitely hit the jackpot having him as a teacher!
Jacob Abinante
Olivia C.
Zana has been an amazing teacher, always helping me explore my interests, polish my technique, and push me to be better. I always enjoy our lessons, and she has truly helped me to improve so much.
Zana Messsia
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
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
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
Sam M.
I took some lessons as a kid but don't remember much. He was patient and helped me focus on the area that i needed to imrove in. Always a fun lesson with Tor! Highly recommend!
Tor Gar
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
Anna O.
Ben is an amazing musician and a wonderful human! He approaches the instrument intuitively and incorporates musical theory and playful jam sessions into every lesson. We recommend him whole-heartedly. Here is a note from my 10-year old son Jacob: Ben is my favorite piano teacher and always will be. I have learned so much in the past year. To me, he is so special because I can learn my favorite song and have fun learning it. Even when I'm really sad because I haven't had enough time to practice, the class is always fun because of him. Playing Classical music like Eine Kleine Nacht Musik is really fun after playing some crazy hip-hop or even Taylor Swift.
Ben Dabiri
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