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 Fort Collins music classes
Recent success stories from people in the Fort Collins area.
Dominique M.
Eric Roberts is awesome. My son loves his guitar lessons and enjoys practicing.
MusicMagic Productions
Diane B.
My instructor is amazing, and very patient with me. I have learned very fast for someone Who had not read music or played an instrument before. I look forward to my Weekly lessons and leave the lesson very excited about playing the violin.
Garden City Innovations
Alex D.
Eric is an amazing teacher! I wasn't sure how virtual lessons would work, but Eric has an amazing setup and instructions that make them wonderfully convenient and easy! Eric is fantastic at catering the lessons to your songs and interests while meeting you where you are at. He has helped me fall in love with playing the piano again!
Eric Larin - Music Lessons
Sharon J.
The Wyoming Elite Music Academy of the Arts, now ELITE MUSIC ACADEMY OF THE ARTS , is the best music academy for children, teens, and adults! Joyce is the most fantastic piano, vocal/singing instructor my daughter and I have ever had! My daughter started piano and singing lessons online (via the Internet) with Joyce at age 5 and has absolutely loved every minute of it! Now, she is 9, and has decided to finish her voice and piano courses! Even Joyce's online lessons are fun, engaging, encouraging, and filled with important information and practice activities...and that makes my daughter want to do better each time, and even practice every day! I find myself on a similar path. I have progressed immensely in piano, and for the first time, with Joyce's online piano lessons, I have felt I have been truly learning how to play the piano well. I have learned more music theory than I ever thought was possible! My daughter and I feel so lucky to have found such an amazing musician and instructor who has in the past even collaborated with so many top notch world renowned musicians, and Maestros... and she has been our instructor! Beginners, intermediate, and Advanced students of all ages will achieve superb musical progress here! We look forward to continuing to take lessons with Joyce! Both this Academy and Joyce come highly recommended! For online or in person lessons, the Elite Music Academy of the Arts and Ms. Joyce are absolutely the best!
ELITE MUSIC ACADEMY OF THE ARTS (Laramie & Jackson, Wyoming)
Jessica H.
Amy is patient and attentive and knows how to cater her lessons to meet students where they are at and help them to grow from there. She has provided opportunities for fun concerts and cello get togethers with other students. I am amazed at the broad range of students she teaches at every level and age from eight to eighty! She has helped me learn technique and a variety of music genres from rich classical to pop to traditional Celtic. I can feel myself grow in skill and ability with each lesson. She is so personable, engaging, and supportive in and out of her studio. I cannot recommend her highly enough if you are interested in learning cello at any level of experience!
Amy Morgan Cello Lessons
Kelli J.
Mr. Dunkin is very patient and a great teacher. My daughter has learned so much and truly enjoys learning how to play her flute.
Windsong Music School
How Lessons.com works
Search
Search, get cost estimates, contact teachers, and book—all for free.
Compare
View profiles, read reviews, check qualifications, and see prices before hiring.
Hire
Ask questions, confirm their availability, and hire the right tutor when you're ready.