Find a music lesson in New York, NY

Find music lessons in New York, NY

Find music lessons in New York, NY

Confirm your location to see the best music classes near you.
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Find music lessons in New York, NY

Confirm your location to see the best music classes near you.
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Top 10 music classes in New York, NY

Students agree: these New York music lessons are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
GospelsMusic

GospelsMusic

8+ years in business
Serves New York, NY & Online
I love to teach piano in the simplest form. I have been playing since I was 14 and teach kids at my church
Kayla Green Voice

Kayla Green Voice

5+ years in business
Serves New York, NY & Online
Let me show you how to love your voice again or maybe for the first time ever! I specialize in Jonathan Stancato’s Inside Voice Technique: an ecstatic, 5-octave, mind-body approach to voice and song. I also use my vast knowledge of music theory and vocal training in musical theatre, opera, rock and classical music to assist my students in finding the most ease and expressiveness in their voices. Whether you are looking to perform for packed audiences, impress your friends at your monthly karaoke outing, or find your most persuasive pitch on a sales call, I am hear to show you how much power you can embody with your voice. Kayla teaches pri
Rafael Rosa Music Lessons

Rafael Rosa Music Lessons

5.0(1)
15+ years in business
Serves New York, NY & Online
Paulina R. says, "His enthusiasm and love for music" Read more
Shannon Ford Drum Lessons

Shannon Ford Drum Lessons

5.0(3)
1 hire on Lessons.com
4+ years in business
Serves New York, NY & Online
Elena B. says, "Shannon is an incredible musician, and has been nothing but kind, generous and encouraging to me as a newcomer on the scene. He offers a wealth of knowledge when it comes to being a professional musician. I always leave our lessons feeling super inspired to keep moving forward!" Read more
Jim Piela, Saxophonist

Jim Piela, Saxophonist

5.0(1)
19+ years in business
Serves New York, NY & Online
Noah R. says, "I've had a lot of music teachers and saxophone teachers that all tried to get me to play the way they wanted me to play, and I've hated it. What's great about Jim is that he really allows you to play like yourself and he just facilitates that and acts as a catalyst. He also plays with a lot of top tier musicians in NYC so you know the information you get is coming straight from the source. I would credit Jim a lot with where I'm at as a musician and with my acceptance into the programs I'm in. P.S. Jim actually practices what he preaches. If you want a great teacher, learn from the guy who does the thing you want to do." Read more
Joe Solomon - Jazz Improvisation Workshop

Joe Solomon - Jazz Improvisation Workshop

5.0Exceptional(17)
3 hires on Lessons.com
50+ years in business
Serves New York, NY
Vincent T. says, "I am a bassist and have been studying with Joe for well over 10 years. He is incredibly, knowledgeable, patient and insightful. You cannot go wrong with his teaching approach." Read more
Piano & Organ Lessons

Piano & Organ Lessons

5.0Exceptional(7)
9 hires on Lessons.com
21+ years in business
Serves New York, NY & Online
Karen H. says, "In August, 2012, under Patrick’s guidance, I returned to piano study after a hiatus of 10 years. With infinite patience and great sense of humor, Patrick helped me rebuild my technique, expand my repertoire and regain my confidence as a pianist. As an educator myself, I can attest to the fact that Patrick has an excellent understanding of adult learners and their particular needs. I recommend him highly!" Read more
Glenn Jude Rhythms

Glenn Jude Rhythms

5.0(1)
1 hire on Lessons.com
29+ years in business
Serves New York, NY & Online
Laura says, "Glenn makes learning exciting, dynamic, and fun. All of my lessons with Glenn have been tailored to my individual needs and level of progression. Additionally, with Glenn's wide range of rhythmic expertise, I have been lucky enough to gain a level of competency and exposure to a wide variety of music, including traditional Brazilian grooves, classic rock, surf, funk/soul, New Orleans-style second line, and more." Read more
Suki Rae

Suki Rae

5.0(1)
45+ years in business
Serves New York, NY & Online
Elise J. says, "Suki is an inspiring teacher that encouraged me time after time to go out of my comfort zone and explore my possibilities further than only playing from sheet music." Read more
Angelo Branford Guitar Lessons

Angelo Branford Guitar Lessons

5.0Exceptional(5)
5 hires on Lessons.com
22+ years in business
Serves New York, NY & Online
David C. says, "Very knowledgeable" Read more

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 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
Katherine H.
As a theory teacher, Patrick Kreeger possesses the exact teaching style the subject requires. Patience, availability for questions and dedication to my desire to learn best define my experience with Patrick. It was such dedication that also made him call me out when he didn’t think I was doing my best or was making careless mistakes. Perhaps this wouldn’t be that outstanding except that Patrick did all of this long distance; he was in Philadelphia and I was in Delaware. He was timely in mailing me assignments and tests, and even more so in grading and returning them. I learned more from him in the 2 years I studied with him than I did in my last year of theory in my undergrad at music school. If you have the opportunity to study with Patrick Kreeger, consider yourself lucky. You couldn’t find better quality teaching elsewhere.”
Piano & Organ Lessons
Michele
If you're interested in it, he's very good with theory, which will help you become a musician, not just learn chords, etc. by rote. I think this really sets him apart. He is also very patient.
Angelo Branford Guitar Lessons
Andrew Z.
Very good teaching. I am an experienced pianist learning violin, and Cedrick definitely knows how to teach classical violin. His teaching is very supportive and thorough in covering violin fundamental techniques and results in a lot of progress.
Cedrick Violin Lessons
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
Amit M.
I really enjoy the lessons and appreciate the helpful practice videos which I'm receiving almost every week and love how organized, clear and sharp the lessons are. I really feel my progress since starting to take lessons with Dror.
Dror P Music
MG G.
James is SO patient and explains everything really well. He is an excellent teacher, and he is wonderfully encouraging to all.
James Cleveland - fiddle
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