I hope this article is helpful so you can make the best decision in choosing a music school for your child. It’s not an easy decision. Here are several ideas that can help give you the confidence to know you made the right decision. Or maybe it’s time for a change. 

What are my child’s needs and musical interests?

Do they play “air” guitar when music comes on the radio or sing to every tune on the airwaves? Sometimes kids start on guitar, get good then want to play piano or learn to sing. Make sure your school of choice can meet your child’s needs. Sometimes a child is very talented musically and then you need a teacher that is able to challenge them. I’ve even had kids not know what they want to play and parents book a month of lessons and do a couple guitar lessons and piano lessons and then decide how they want to continue. A school with options is best.

Does the school offer performance opportunities for your child? Recitals build confidence and social interaction, great for communication skills. They see the other kids do it and think I can do that. Music skills grow and when the family is involved it really becomes a great memory from their childhood. It’s just a win win all the way around!

The School’s Reputation

One of the best sources to find out if a school is the quality you’re looking for is to check it’s Google Reviews. Also there might be testimonials on their website. That gives you a variety of different families and their experience with the school. Reviews have always led me to quality choices whether a Dr. or buying music equiptment online. See what the parents are saying!

Location and Costs

We are all pressed for time so generally we a school within 15 minutes or less of where we live. Location is a big factor. I have a student who travels over one to  and one from the lesson because of the result they are getting.

Just about everyone is on a budget. Money is a big consideration in choosing music lessons. The highest priced school or teacher is not always the best. The lower priced lessons usually are not doing it full time and are trying to pick up extra cash. My lessons are custom created for each student sitting in front of me according to their learning style, are they just doing it for fun or are they more serious? I’ve taught teens that want to audition for the Berklee School of Music and if they do the right things they will make it in. 

How long should the lesson be? I believe kids under 12 should only do 30 minute lessons. I have had kids that were really catching on fast and had great attention spans. So the parents upped the lesson to 60 minutes. It all depends. 

Teacher personality/skills

Choosing the right piano, guitar or voice teacher is critical. I think the Number 1 personality trait a great teacher should have is passion. It shows and it’s because they care it what drives the passion. Patience is Number 2 in my book. Does the teacher have a thorough knowldege of the subject they are trying to teach? Do they create a practice routine with specific goals quarterly? Very important questions. 

School protective measures

A music school must have a friendly atmosphere and be protective for every student. It should be mandatory that an adult be present at all times for children under 18. Physical measure such as clean air and moderate distancing because of Covid.

This list is not exhaustive but I believe are many important points to consider and help you choose the right music school. 

Conclusion

Music lessons should be fun, not time consuming and increase your child’s mental, physical and social skills. This is preparing them for the life ahead. And maybe one day your child will pick up and instrument and play for you. 

Metairie Music Academy’s mission is to help children learn and appreciate the beauty and art of music in our community in the heart of Metairie, La. If you’d like more information please call Sid at 504-421-8811 or use the Request Info button below. Thank you!