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 Amarillo music classes
Recent success stories from people in the Amarillo area.
Patrick D.
Jonny is an awesome teacher for my two boys at different levels. His ability to challenge them within their skill to help them grow and incorporate theory in understandable ways have helped my boys become much more capable and confident players. My older student is interested in jazz and has learned so much from Jonny’s deep expertise for both improvisation and madness of jazz theory. Strongly recommend Jonny for a student at any level. You will learn so much and have fun at the same time, guaranteed.
Evergreen School of Music / Evergreen Jazz Camp
Jodi S.
I’ve been taking online voice coaching lessons with Jennie, and I can confidently say it has been an amazing experience. Jennie’s teaching style is both encouraging and insightful, making each lesson enjoyable and productive. She’s incredibly patient and takes the time to tailor each session to my specific needs, helping me build my vocal skills at my own pace. Her feedback is always constructive, and I can feel noticeable improvements in my voice after just a few lessons. Jennie is not only a fantastic coach but also a great motivator who genuinely cares about her students' progress. I highly recommend her to anyone looking to improve their voice, whether you're a beginner or more advanced!
Online Singing Lessons: Voice by Chelsea
Jennifer J.
Coach Mike is great! He’s attentive to detail, can meet you at whatever level you’re at with various drills and he’s very patient while also challenging. And lessons are fun too!
Mike's Tennis Lessons
Kathy V.
Stephen is a first rate pianist and teacher. I like that he intersperses theory, technique & even fun facts with the usual fingering, rhythm & tempo. He's a stickler for getting each piece just right, but does so gradually with lots of positive encouragement. I even bring "special songs" to my lessons which he helps me with alongside the lesson books. I continually learn lots from him and music adds so much to our home.
Stephen Chapman
Michael I.
Been working with Frankie for a bit more than a year now and I have never worked with another piano teacher that was so responsive and willing to structure lessons based on my individual music goals. I do music production and songwriting so Frankie has helped me take my understanding of music theory and apply it to my work and practices. He designs specific exercises to work through between lessons so that I can continue my studies when I have time and then review when I'm back in a lessons. Would recommend to anybody, beginner or advanced. Frankie is a great paino teacher who truly knows what he is talking about.
Frankie's Piano Lessons
Andy C.
Wendy is PHENOMENAL! I wish I could give her more than 5 stars! As a teacher, she is thoughtful and extremely organized. She is brilliant and truly helps improve your playing, giving a mix of both technical and musical development. I know her students have gone on to do amazing things and have gotten into top programs such as Juilliard pre-college. I am always impressed by the way she approaches her teaching, really taking the time to understand the issues and help find a solution that works for the student. If you have a chance to study with Wendy, you will not be disappointed. I would recommend her to anyone and everyone!
Wendy Sutter
Anna O.
Ben is an amazing musician and a wonderful human! He approaches the instrument intuitively and incorporates musical theory and playful jam sessions into every lesson. We recommend him whole-heartedly. Here is a note from my 10-year old son Jacob: Ben is my favorite piano teacher and always will be. I have learned so much in the past year. To me, he is so special because I can learn my favorite song and have fun learning it. Even when I'm really sad because I haven't had enough time to practice, the class is always fun because of him. Playing Classical music like Eine Kleine Nacht Musik is really fun after playing some crazy hip-hop or even Taylor Swift.
Ben Dabiri
Africa Lynn N.
I just had my first vocal coaching session with Tona Brown, and I’m honestly blown away. From the moment we started, she was incredibly in tune with my needs—not just technically, but emotionally. She zeroed in on areas where I lacked confidence and immediately began building me up with targeted, effective exercises.
I’ve been singing since high school and have spent much of my life performing in church. I’ve also had the honor of singing in Black Nativity at the Anacostia Playhouse under the direction of Stephawn Stevens. Still, in just one session, Tona helped me feel more empowered and equipped than I have in a long time.
She not only believes she can help me increase my vocal range and find more joy in singing—she believes I can make real money with my voice. And for the first time, I believe that too.
Tona is professional, inspiring, and incredibly flexible with scheduling. She even suggested more frequent sessions so we can really dig into the goals we’ve identified. If you’re even thinking about vocal coaching, book a session with her. After one session, I can tell you: she’s the real deal.
Aida Studios
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