Music Lessons at

Group Lessons (Classroom Instruction)

There are many reasons why students and families prefer group lessons. The three biggest advantages involve affordability, the pacing of instruction, and the social aspect of learning with others and interacting with peers.

1. Affordability - group lessons cost less. There are some variables, but the average cost of group lessons is about 65% of the cost of individual private lessons.

2. Pacing of Instruction - group lessons encourage students to keep on pace. Students in the class move through the curriculum together, and, with guidance and encouragement from the teacher, create a learning environment that is supportive, nurturing, collaborative, and mutually rewarding. Students get very comfortable playing in front of others, and always have a small audience to practice performing for, which stimulates the development and improves progress.

3. Social Aspect - many students enjoy learning with others and interacting with peers. We strive to place students into appropriate age groupings, and in these learning environments, close bonds and lasting friendships often develop. Students have more opportunities to play duets and make music together as an ensemble, which can help with rhythm, blend, and teamwork, and better prepare them for school music such as band, choir, and orchestra.

When it comes to piano lessons, our proprietary curriculum and expert teaching strategies work to ensure students will advance further and faster with our exceptional 60-minute group piano lessons than with any ordinary piano teacher’s 30-minute private lessons!

“I have been impressed with Dennis’ instructional instincts and his ability to make connections with his students. Dennis’ ability to form relationships and rapport with students evident both in his teaching and in student performances. Dennis’ instruction has helped our students grow in their abilities and their confidence to perform on stage.” — Sarah O.

Notes: Group instruction is available for piano, guitar, and voice / singing. This option is not yet available for strings, drums, or other instruments (we plan to add ensemble options in the future). Students interested in exam preparation such as Certificate of Merit (CM), RSM, or audition preparation must enroll in individual private instruction.

Individual Lessons (Private Instruction)

There are many reasons why students and families prefer individual private lessons. The three biggest advantages involve one-on-one teacher instruction, curriculum, pacing, and schedule customization, more advanced levels, and preparation for outside activities such as recitals, exams (e.g., Music Teacher Association of California Certificate of Merit CM, RCM, ABRSM, etc.), special performances, competitions, and auditions (e.g., for Orange County School of the Arts, the Saddleback College Applied Music Program, or university/conservatory entrance requirements).

1. One-on-one Teacher Instruction - music students receive individual private instruction from their teacher. The entire lesson time and all of the teacher’s attention are devoted to one individual student. Piano students take lessons on an acoustic piano (rather than on an electronic keyboard).

2. Curriculum, Pacing, and Schedule Customization - music teachers have the flexibility to tailor the curriculum and pacing of instruction to each individual student. For example, additional pieces can be added to the sequencing, substitute pieces, or pieces of special interest to the student. A student who loves to sing and play can do more singing and playing in lessons, and a student who wants to learn to play the jazz piano can do more improvising in lessons. In addition, there are likely more day and time options available for individual lessons (group class days and times are sometimes predetermined according to the course catalog and class schedules).

3. More Advanced Levels - music students at more advanced levels require individual private instruction and one-on-one music lessons.

4. Preparation for Outside Activities - music students who wish to play non-standard (out of book) repertoire at recitals (such as themed music) or want/need to learn pieces for special performances, competitions, or auditions can do so by taking individual private lessons. Also, students who wish to participate in exams such as MTAC CM and others can get the dedicated instruction they need during their regular weekly lessons to work on and perfect their repertoire and other important aspects of exam and audition preparation.)