Find a music lesson in Chicago, IL

Find music lessons in Chicago, IL

Find music lessons in Chicago, IL

Confirm your location to see the best music classes near you.
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Find music lessons in Chicago, IL

Confirm your location to see the best music classes near you.
Zip code

Top 10 music classes in Chicago, IL

Students agree: these Chicago music lessons are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
The Chicago Ensemble

The Chicago Ensemble

5.0(3)
Serves Chicago, IL
Vicki C. says, "I started piano lessons with Gerald 3 years ago and just passed AIM piano exam Level 11 in both theory and performance. Gerald is a great teacher, kind (sometimes too kind), patient, dedicate and has passion in teaching music with 50 years experience. I feel I'm luck to be his student." Read more
Marissa's Music Studio

Marissa's Music Studio

5.0(1)
3 hires on Lessons.com
3+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL & Online
Dixie B. says, "She has helped me try different genre's of music, appreciating the different styles. She is a wealth of information, not only teaching technique and theory but adds life to my playing and teaching how to perform the pieces. Always kind and always positive. I am excited to see what new pieces, she will think of next." Read more
Ivana Bukvich, Piano, Musicianship Classes

Ivana Bukvich, Piano, Musicianship Classes

5.0Exceptional(6)
1 hire on Lessons.com
Serves Chicago, IL & Online
Linda S. says, "Ivana is an outstanding teacher who not only teaches piano performance but .gets to know her student as a whole and nurtures in a wholesome manner. " Read more
Joseph Glymph

Joseph Glymph

5.0Exceptional(18)
2 hires on Lessons.com
55+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL
Dan W. says, "Joe is literally the best technical violin teacher. If you want to learn violin at a high technical level, Joe is your go to. He also teaches conducting. I am able to play some of the most tech iCarly challenging violin pieces proficiently because of Joe. Do not underestimate his prowess as a teacher and performer. If you need to become technically proficient for violin/viola/cello auditions, go to Joe." Read more
Kabir Dalawari Drum Lessons

Kabir Dalawari Drum Lessons

5.0Exceptional(5)
5 hires on Lessons.com
8+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL
Emmanuel E. says, "I like how he is very good at explaining complicated things. He also motivates his student to work hard. When his student makes a mistakes, he encourages them that they can do. He is also flexible and willing to work with you and help you out. If your looking for a drum teacher he's the guy to go." Read more
Richard Sladek- Lessons- ChicagoPianist.com

Richard Sladek- Lessons- ChicagoPianist.com

8 hires on Lessons.com
38+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL
I am presently accepting beginning, intermediate and advanced students who have mastered the basics, but are ready to take their playing to a higher level. My teaching emphasis is on technique and playing music expressively. I also offer coaching to improve sight-reading and memorization skills. Lessons are generally once a week in 1/2 hour or 1 hour blocks. If you prefer, lessons may be given more than once per week. Studio locations in Forest Park, Downers Grove, and Wheaton. *Prospective students under the age of 18 should have their parent or guardian contact Richard Sladek on their behalf. It’s an inspiration to encourage students to gr...
Ricardo Jimenez Music

Ricardo Jimenez Music

1 hire on Lessons.com
2+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL & Online
Welcome! I am a globally experienced educator who encourages my students to become whole artists, focusing on passion, person, and their goals. I have been an educator for 8 years and taught in over 4 countries. I have played trumpet for 17 years and practice voice for 8. I have my Bachelors of Music from Lawrence University. I am proficient in jazz, classical, and commercial trumpet, and jazz and contemporary voice training. My lessons also provide music theory training, but I do offer composition and theory lessons separately if desired. I teach in English and Spanish. Whether you're a beginner, coming back after decades off, or an advanced
Richard Li's Cello Studio

Richard Li's Cello Studio

5.0(1)
11+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL & Online
Betsy S. says, "Richard was an amazing teacher and helped me realize how much I love cello! He was always well prepared and created a great plan for us to follow before upcoming performances/auditions. He also had a very nice dog!" Read more
Brenda Degner Piano Studio

Brenda Degner Piano Studio

31+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL
Welcome to Brenda Degner Piano Studio. I teach private piano lessons out of my home studio in the Chicago’s South Loop. I’m a Nationally Certified Teacher of Music in Piano through the Music Teachers National Association. I graduated from Trinity International University in Deerfield, IL with a BA in Piano Pedagogy and Performance and have been teaching piano for over 25 years.The piano is a fundamental instrument to learn all aspects of music — from theory, to proper technique, ear training, and music history. I teach all of these areas and love watching students connect the dots in how these areas are related. Contact me! Your first les...
DISKOTEKA (Sian & Eulalia)

DISKOTEKA (Sian & Eulalia)

5+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL & Online
Welcome to DISKOTEKA, where we transform your musical journey into an unforgettable experience. Based in the vibrant city of Chicago, our expert team of two delivers top-tier DJing services alongside personalized music theory and audio production lessons. Whether you're looking to elevate your event with dynamic DJ performances or seeking to deepen your understanding of music production, DISKOTEKA offers tailored solutions to meet your needs. Join us and discover the rhythm of excellence that sets us apart.

Your Music Lessons questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.com.

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 Chicago music classes

Recent success stories from people in the Chicago area.
Julian H.
I have known Gerald Rizzer for many years. He has a very easy going approach to teaching but on the other hand is extremely good at helping the student improve his or her performances and musical capabilities. He is especially interested in the structure of the pieces the student is working on and can improve interpretations by focusing on that structure. He is the leader of the well known Chicago Ensemble and his abilities as a professional performing musician are beyond reproach. I highly recommend him.
The Chicago Ensemble
Marlena K.
I have studied with Ivana Bukvich for well over a decade and couldn't be more pleased. She provides a well-rounded music education as well as frequent performance and collaborative opportunities. Her knowledge of repertoire, theory, history, and pedagogy is vast and she does an excellent job sharing her expertise in a clear and efficient manner. Her love for music and teaching shines in her lessons.
Ivana Bukvich, Piano, Musicianship classes
John L.
Mr. Glymph was my violin instructor and orchestra director between 2007 and 2013. The importance he has played on my life transcends into existential territory as it was his teachings that allowed me to achieve my dreams in life on top of rapidly improving in violin performance. His "smart practice" method that relies on deliberate and methodical micro improvements, bound together with repetition and consistency is essentially a guidebook to becoming a professional in any field and separating yourself from the masses. I had taken violin lessons for roughly ten years when I met Mr. Glymph as a teenager, and the amount of improvement I made in the first two years with him was probably one hundred-fold without exaggeration. His teaching style is not for everyone, but the sky is the limit if you are serious about music and want to genuinely improve. I eventually made a personal decision to not major in music, and Mr. Glymph was supportive as any mentor should be. I do believe that had I continued to pursue music using his methods I would have had a good career as well. Mr. Glymph is both an incredible violin teacher and a genuine mentor. He is strict but also understanding. Asking him if he could teach me at the Suzuki summer program in 2006-7 was easily one of the best decisions I've made in my life, and when I write a reflection or something in the coming years, his legacy will live on in that piece. John L.
Joseph Glymph
Elise M.
Kabir id an amazing instructor. He works with our son who is a high school freshman. Our son took lessons in person with Kabir pre-Covid, and has been doing online lessons since. We couldn’t be happier. Gabe is making process and is motivated to practice every day.
Kabir Dalawari Drum Lessons
Brian
Alex rocks. He really helped me level up my guitar skills for my band. Would totally recommend him to anyone looking to advance their chops.
Alex's Guitar Experience
Jenny C.
Her positivity, focus and flexibility always made us feel welcome. Her ability to interpret the voice and what needs to be done to improve is profound. Annie provided my daughter with the skill and confidence to absolutely achieve her goal. Voice lessons amplified her talent and it showed on stage! Annie is professional and talented. Grateful we found her. Recommend without hesitation.
Annie B Music Lessons
Aroba M.
Frank has been a tremendous help through my advancements in piano technique and interpretation. His application of Italian bel-canto principles, as well as his natural exercises of the hands and wrists, has broadened my technique in indescribable ways. Just by watching his hands play the keyboard, I can apply his principles to create an incredible interpretation from a technical and interpretive standpoint.
Frank Forliano Piano Studio
Christina L.
"As a working professional adult woman at a point in my life when I decided to shift some focus more to my own interests and self-development, I decided to begin studying violin later in life - something I've wanted to do for a very long time.  Having no previous musical experience at all, Amy Foley was encouraging and supportive from the start -- teaching me important basic fundamentals such as instrument care, balance, movement, positioning, intonation, and how to read sheet music.  Amy has a wonderfully deep understanding of music theory and is clear and thorough in her explanations.  Her patient and positive demeanor made me feel good about the progress I was making; and when I seemed stuck at any point, she came up with creative and applicable suggestions and exercises to help me over any hurdles.  Studying violin has given me a greater appreciation for music as well -- I find myself listening to music differently, and the experience is now enhanced because I find myself noticing things which I learned during my lessons, e.g., how compositions come together to make the whole. And I've learned to hear more of the emotion in music because of what I've learned during my lessons; and Amy, with her talent and quiet sense of humor, has made the experience an absolute joy!"
Violin and Alexander Technique Lessons
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