Find a music lesson in Philadelphia, PA

Find music lessons in Philadelphia, PA

Find music lessons in Philadelphia, PA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best music classes in your area.
Zip code

Find music lessons in Philadelphia, PA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best music classes in your area.
Zip code

Top 10 music classes in Philadelphia, PA

Students agree: these Philadelphia music lessons are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
David Joel Guitar Studio

David Joel Guitar Studio

5.0Exceptional(15)
26+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
Patricia B. says, "I wanted an instructor who focused on the instrument and music theory, not genre. And that’s exactly what I got. Mr. Joel is patient and understanding. He is also quite honestly supportive. Now, I can play the guitar, read music, know what I’m playing in tabs and figure out progressions by ear. So, I’m a happy student. Really, I am a guitarist.🙌🏽" Read more
Philadelphia/Online Classical Piano Lessons With Yale Graduate

Philadelphia/Online Classical Piano Lessons With Yale Graduate

5.0Exceptional(10)
Offers online services
6+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
Mirka B. says, "I have had the privilege to host Simon Karakulidi while he stayed in the bay area for six months in 2020, and experience both his brilliance as a person and a musician. Simon is uniquely gifted at articulating and teaching music and piano technique. He is a responsible and disciplined person. Being accepted as his student is a bonus to anyone who is looking for a sensitive and principled teacher. I don’t use words lightly; Simon is truly extraordinary. Mirka Breen Oakland, California" Read more
Steven LaFashia Guitar/Audio Instruction

Steven LaFashia Guitar/Audio Instruction

5.0(2)
Offers online services
3 hires on Lessons
29+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
Amanda M. says, "Steve knows so much about computers, while I am hopelessly inept. He's been most patient, taking me step through step and sending additional information in multiple emails. I just hope I'm not too taxing a student!" Read more
Ron Turner Guitar Lessons

Ron Turner Guitar Lessons

5.0(4)
Offers online services
7 hires on Lessons
17+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
Rick A. says, "Extremely knowledgeable and very patient!" Read more
Kathryn Woodard

Kathryn Woodard

5.0(4)
1 hire on Lessons
12+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
Nicole L. says, "My boys aged 12 and 13, have been learning piano with Kathryn for a year and their progress has been remarkable. They enjoy their lessons, are comfortable with Kathryn, and have improved their piano skills noticeably. Kathryn tailors her teaching to their needs, keeps us updated on their progress, and helped them pass the ABRSM grade 5. I highly recommend her for her effective, adaptable teaching style and commitment to her students." Read more
Bucks County Music

Bucks County Music

5.0Exceptional(5)
5 hires on Lessons
21+ years in business
Serves Philadelphia, PA
Joe B. says, "Easy to understand concepts. Great personality which makes each lesson enjoyable. I was playing a song after the first lesson." Read more

Your Music Lessons questions, answered

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 Philadelphia music classes

Recent success stories from people in the Philadelphia area.
JP W.
David is fantastic! Not only is he a world-class musician, but David has an incredible talent for recognizing & guiding students to their full potential. His attention to detail paired with his warm demeanor makes for an excellent learning experience. You will become a better player than you ever thought possible and have a great time along the way!
David Joel Guitar Studio
Michael M.
I'm an adult with little musical background and I've been learning piano with Simon for quite a few months now. Simon is a great teacher, he is passionate about piano and it shows in the way he teaches and explains things. During the lessons he always takes time to improve my technique, teach me music theory and improve my ear training. He is also good at explaining things intuitively. I am happy with the progress I've made since we started lessons together, so I'd highly recommend him!
Philadelphia/Online Classical Piano Lessons with Yale Graduate
Francis K.
Steve is an extraordinary instructor; his knowledge of music - sound, technique, and theory (to name a few) - is seemingly boundless. He is a dedicated and thoughtful teacher who is attentive to the level of skill and goals for each of his students. Above all, Steve is encouraging and patient - he will answer any question without hesitation and directs you to excellent resources to help you deepen your knowledge. No matter where you are in learning the guitar or learning how to work in a studio, Steve will give you the tools you need to achieve your fullest potential.
Steven LaFashia Guitar/Audio Instruction
Jim M.
I have been working with Ron for over 10 years. He is a great teacher and I have improved my skills in all areas. Ron is great to work with with vast knowledge and skills. He has the ability to help you understand even the most difficult skills and styles.
Ron Turner Guitar Lessons
Daphne K.
My kids started taking piano lessons with Kathryn a couple years ago. They have different learning styles and were at different levels but Kathryn could identify what they need to work on and engage them quickly. We observed noticeable improvement in their skills and sight reading after just a few weeks. The online piano and theory lessons are equally engaging and my kids are enjoying the classes as usual and showing amazing progress.
Kathryn Woodard
Michael P.
Don has absolutely exceeded our expectations regarding our son's ability to play the piano. When we found him as a piano instructor, we didn't realize he would become a role model, mentor and trusted advisor to our son. Since our son Brendan started taking piano lessons with Do, he has increased his focus and accepts challenges more openly in all aspects of life.
Bucks County Music
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