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 New York music classes
Recent success stories from people in the New York area.
Brian C.
Being a successful drummer is about having good time and good relationships. Shannon excels at both. He explains what tools you need to sound professional, while modeling what a “good hang” is in the music scene.
Shannon finds the perfect balance of explanation and demonstration. He targets the smaller areas of musicality that can elevate a drummer from a 6 to a 10.
Broadway drummers need to play in multiple genres. I have sat with Shannon and experienced his effortless shifts from rock to swing to pop. As a teacher, he perfectly communicates the idiosyncrasies of each style.
Brian Cudina
Lyricist, Drummer, Journalist
Shannon Ford Drum Lessons
Maia S.
He's a great teacher: encouraging, but also knows when and how to critique and not discourage a beginner. Makes sure it is challenging, but not overwhelming. Encyclopedic knowledge of jazz and music theory. Definitely recommend!
joe solomon - jazz improvisation workshop
Sofia M.
I’ve been going to Gayle for over 10 months now, and within this time she has helped me in so many ways! My singing has gotten better, she’s helped me train my ears, always giving me endless support and most importantly she has helped me gain so much confidence within this time. Gayle is a great teacher but also a great person, she’s so welcoming and free spirited. She’s made me feel so comfortable to explore my voice.
Gayle is definitely worth your time & money.
Gayle Sommers
Jocelyn M.
I absolutely recommend Shak as a drumming coach. He is extremely friendly and personable. I have played drums in the past but overtime had forgotten certain things and wanted to brush up on them. He was able to pinpoint what I needed to work on and as well as what my strengths were. Overall a great lesson and would definitely book another in the very near future.
SHAKONSET
David T.
Learned a lot these past few month since I started. Helped me finished my track sound cleaner and better
Would definitely Recommend !!!
Vincent Abbatiello
Heather F.
While working as a professional Broadway performer I had the honor to train with Julia. The sessions were very challenging at first because I needed to retrain my breath, relax facial muscles and work on everything from creating sound. Julia's detail to technique allowed me to blossom and find my authentic voice. Her approach to singing is fun but spiritual at the same time. In all my years of vocal training, Julia was by far the most inspiring and liberating teacher I had. Take a risk -you just might find your voice.
Grace Music Studio NY
Lily R.
Katie really helped me expand my range and open up my voice to its full power. I loved that she was so versatile in style and we worked technique and acting in musical theatre, as well as jazz, pop, and classical operetta. I felt very comfortable with her and loved our Zoom lessons.
Katie Dixon Acting, Voice, & Piano Lessons
Sabine M.
Joe recently came to us to teach our twin sons, beginners and age 6.5. On his first visit he got them excited about piano and learning and was able to teach them concepts they grasped immediately. He has the gift to encourage to do well in a playful but firm way that speaks to kids. I highly recommend his teaching approach and we look forward to continuing instructions with him.
Joe Pace/Pace Music
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