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Getting Started: What is the Cost of Guitar Lessons?

July 12, 2022

Getting Started: What is the Cost of Guitar Lessons?

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It can be tough to know how much guitar lessons should cost. Do you need to go with the most popular and expensive option, or is there a more affordable route?

 In this post, we’ll help you figure out what to expect from guitar lessons, and how much you can expect to pay. 

So whether you’re just starting out, or are looking for a new instructor, read on for everything you need to know about the cost of guitar lessons!

How Much Are Guitar Lessons Per Month?

How much are guitar lessons per month? The answer, of course, depends on a number of factors, including:

  • The type of guitar you want to learn
  • The experience of the instructor
  • The length of the lesson
  • Whether the lessons are online or in-person

Generally speaking, however, most guitar lessons cost between $30 and $60 per hour. 

For a beginner, it is typically recommended to take one or two lessons per week. As such, the average cost of guitar lessons per month would be somewhere between $120 and $240. 

Of course, this is just a rough estimate, and the actual cost of guitar lessons may be higher or lower depending on your specific circumstances.

Wondering how much you’ll pay for guitar lessons? Learn more about the average cost of guitar lessons for beginners by chatting with a guitar expert today – and check out the video below to get an idea of what you might learn in your guitar lessons:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tKEkV7bB1E 

How Much Should I Pay for Guitar Lessons?

When you’re looking around for guitar lessons, be aware that there are many different things that can change the cost per lesson. While the average price for guitar lessons falls somewhere between $20 and $40, a few important factors can determine whether you’re at the low or the upper end of the spectrum.

Instructor and Student Experience

Most guitar teachers starting out are not only trying to teach music; they are also trying to get their name out there into the music community. The average price for guitar lessons for instructors who have less than 5 years of teaching experience is much less than the average for instructors with 20 years or more.

Along with the experience of the instructor, your experience is also a factor. As you progress and can play at a higher level, you need a teacher that can help you continue to learn. In addition, you might find that you would like to specialize in a certain area of guitar playing. Many instructors have a specialty as well, and those who are able to adequately teach these specialties can command a higher average price for guitar lessons than those that maintain a standard beginner or intermediate curriculum.

Lesson Duration

Naturally, the more time you spend with your instructor, the more that he or she will be charging you per lesson. Usually, guitar teachers will start you out with a 30 minute lesson once per week. As your skill level improves, you might find that a 45 minute lesson or even a full hour of instruction is necessary for continued advancement.

The right guitar lesson length for you can be discussed with your guitar instructor at any time. Since a 45 minute lesson will cost only slightly less than 150% of a 30 minute lesson, your private lessons instructor will be getting more out of each week. If you feel like you’re always running short on time, don’t hesitate to ask your private guitar lessons teacher whether increasing the time each week would be beneficial.

Where You’re Located

If you live in a small town, this significantly limits your options as compared to a larger urban or suburban area. On the other hand, the average price for guitar lessons in a smaller community could be much less than the prices found in a larger area.

If you are located in a rural area, but are willing to drive to a slightly larger community, you might find the best of both worlds. While the prices are higher in larger population centers, this ties in to the first factor, the expertise of your guitar instructor. Often, there are teaching studios or schools where you can progress from one private teacher to the next as your ability improves.

Where You’re Receiving the Lessons

Besides your geographic location, the physical location also can impact what you find for the average price for guitar lessons. There are three main options for where the lessons can take place:

  • At a studio or your instructor’s rehearsal space
  • At your home
  • Online via a video chat setup

Out of these three, the most expensive option is to have your instructor travel to meet you at your home. While this can be the most convenient, it often comes at a premium. If you need your guitar lessons at your home, it saves you time, and travel costs. At the same time, those costs need to be picked up by someone else, in this case, your instructor. The average price for guitar lessons increases if the lessons occur at the student’s home, especially if the private lessons instructor charges mileage or or for the time spent traveling.

Online lessons can be quite inexpensive, but are not ideal for the only means of guitar lessons. Without having your instructor in the same room as you, things can prove quite difficult if there are specific fingering patterns or other intricacies that need to be discussed. Having at least one in-person lesson per month is a good rule of thumb to keep your ability progressing at a steady rate.

What about the cost of Guitar Center lessons?

Guitar Center offers a variety of music lessons, with prices depending on the type of lesson and the length of time. For example, a half-hour private guitar lesson costs $32, while a one-hour group lesson costs $25. 

If you sign up for a package of four half-hour private lessons, the cost is $120. In addition to guitar lessons, Guitar Center also offers lessons on bass, drums, keyboard, and other instruments. You can also find information about music theory, ear training, and songwriting.

So…What’s the Bottom Line?

More important than the four factors listed here, is that you shop around to find the best instructor for guitar lessons. If you are just starting out, you won’t require a world-class guitarist as a teacher, but you will still want someone who is knowledgeable and has a few years of experience in teaching beginning guitar players. The beginning instructor will usually have a much lower average price for guitar lessons than the advanced teacher; keep in mind that higher level lessons will cost more down the road.

What is the Cost of Guitar Lessons Near Me?

The cost of guitar lessons can vary depending on a number of factors, including the instructor’s experience, the length and frequency of the lessons, and the location. 

In general, private guitar lessons with a qualified instructor will cost between $30 and $60 per hour. Group guitar lessons are usually less expensive, and some music stores or community centers offer free or discounted lessons. 

For those who want to learn on their own, there are a number of online guitar courses available for a fraction of the cost of private lessons. 

If you’re looking for guitar lessons near me, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to find a teacher who is experienced and reputable. Make sure to read reviews and ask around for recommendations. 

Once you’ve found a few potential teachers, schedule a free consultation to see if they’re a good fit for you. It’s also important to consider your budget and whether you’re looking for private or group lessons. 

Private lessons tend to be more expensive, but they offer a more personalized experience. Group lessons are a great option if you’re on a budget or if you want to learn with friends. Whichever option you choose, make sure to practice regularly and you’ll be playing like a pro in no time.

Whichever route you choose, be prepared to invest time and effort into learning how to play the guitar. With practice and patience, you’ll be making beautiful music in no time.

Are Guitar Lessons Worth It?

Guitar lessons can be expensive, but with the right resources, you can find what you need for a fraction of the cost. They are definitely worth it!

By starting slow and building on each skill, you’ll be playing your favorite songs in no time. What are you waiting for? Start learning today!

Free TakeLessons Resource

Photo by Vee229

author

Jill Cole