One common question asked by many aspiring musicians (and oftentimes, their parents) is: “Why are music lessons so expensive?”
There are a few main factors that contribute to the cost of music lessons. In this blog post, we’ll uncover what those factors are and then share 10 clever solutions that make saving up for music lessons easier than you think.
How Much Do People Spend on Music Lessons?
The answer depends on a few factors, including the type of instrument you want to learn, the quality of the teacher, and how often you want to take lessons. For example:
- Piano lessons with a highly qualified instructor can cost as much as $100 per hour, while guitar lessons with a less experienced teacher may only cost $30 per hour.
- If you take one lesson per week, that means you could be spending anywhere from $4,800 to $1,560 per year on music lessons.
- Of course, there are also cheaper options for those who are on a budget. You could take group lessons instead of private ones, or try learning from an online tutorial.
- And remember, the more you practice, the better you’ll get – so don’t be discouraged if it takes a little time (and money) to reach your musical goals.
Finding affordable music lessons for kids and adults is easier than you might think. You can find affordable music lessons on TakeLessons – and even watch helpful YouTube videos to acquaint you with the basics. Learn more here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F35UkNPC1jw
Why Are Music Lessons So Expensive?
The average cost of private, in-home music lessons is $31.50 for a 30-minute lesson, according to this nationwide study by TakeLessons.
The average cost of online music lessons is a little more affordable, at $25 per 30-minute lesson. That comes out to $100 a month if you take one lesson per week.
While these rates might seem high at first glance, they make more sense when you take the following factors into consideration.
- Music teachers are often self employed and don’t have the benefits of a salaried position
- Many teachers factor in the time and expenses it takes to travel to your home for lessons
- Music teachers take extra time to prep for each individual student prior to a lesson
- Some teachers pay for their own studio and additional instruments for students
- Teachers who are just starting out don’t have enough students to fill up a 9-5 work shift
- If you live in a bigger city, the cost of lessons will be higher because there is more competition in the market
Now you know some of the reasons why music lessons are expensive. If the dream of becoming a better musician still seems distant because of your financial situation, keep reading for some easy ways to save up!
Can’t Afford Music Lessons? Here Are 10 Easy Ways to Save Up for Music Lessons
Need help covering the cost of music lessons? Here are some quick tips to help you out.
Save $150 a month brewing at home
Are you an avid coffee drinker? If you find yourself making daily trips to your local cafe, one excellent way to save five dollars a day is to try brewing your coffee at home instead.
Consider it an opportunity to try out some new roasts, and a small sacrifice to have to make on your way to musical success. After just one month, you’ll be able to afford six online music lessons (at $25 per 30-minute lesson).
Save $300 a month packing a lunch
The cost of eating out adds up quickly. Did you know that waking up just a little bit earlier than normal to prepare a lunch can save you hundreds every month? Or, an even easier option is to make some extra food for dinner the night before your work day!
At $10 a day in savings, you’ll have saved up the equivalent of 12 online music lessons by the end of the month.
Save hundreds on your commute
Driving your own car to work can cost you hundreds of extra dollars per month. Instead, try carpooling with coworkers, or if you live close to the office, try bike riding.
Another great idea that will also save you money on parking is to use public transportation, such as a bus or train. Any one of these options will save you hundreds in gas money per month, which you can gladly put toward music lessons instead.
Save $100 a month cutting cable
Many people who have cable find that they don’t actually use it enough to warrant the high monthly cost. If that sounds like you, consider cancelling cable and spending more of your free time on your hobbies.
With $100 in monthly savings, you’ll be able to afford weekly music lessons after cancelling a cable subscription.
Save $50 a month skipping the gym
No, we’re not giving you an excuse to stop exercising. Staying in shape is extremely important to your overall health. But instead of spending money on a gym membership, try going for a run or riding a bike at your local park instead.
With all the workout routines available on the internet, it’s easy to get in shape in the comfort of your own home, too! An average $50 monthly gym membership fee equates to two music lessons per month.
Save hundreds more with a rewards card
If you have a credit card that allows you to accrue rewards points with every purchase you make, why not redeem those points as cash and apply them to music lessons?
Rack up the points by using your credit card to pay for groceries, gas, and bills. Many credit cards don’t have a limit to how many points you can accrue or an expiration date on your points.
SEE ALSO: Private Lessons Don’t Need to be Expensive – Here’s How to Save
Save $100 a month staying sober
For some aspiring musicians, this saving strategy might seem like a lot to ask. But just like eating out, the cost of alcoholic beverages can add up very quickly.
Drinking a bottle of wine each week for example, can end up costing you around $100 a month. If you simply cross wine off of your shopping list, you’d be able to afford weekly online music lessons.
Save $50 a month doing your nails
For the ladies, getting a monthly manicure and pedicure will cost you a minimum of $50 a month. Do your own nails instead, or go au naturel, and you’ll be able to afford two additional online music lessons every month.
If you’re learning an instrument like guitar or violin, having short nails will help you hold down the strings much easier anyway!
Bundle up to save even more!
See if you can join a family plan if you currently just have a single line. Reevaluating your cell phone plan is an easy way to save money on your monthly bills.
If joining a plan with relatives isn’t an option, consider getting a group of friends together on the same plan instead. Splitting the cost of a plan with unlimited data is much more affordable than paying for it all on your own.
Pass on name brands
Every grocery store has its own line of products, and they’re usually cheaper than the big name brands we all recognize. A lot of times the ingredients in these products are exactly the same.
Skip name brand items at the grocery store to save up more money every week for music lessons. You can also apply this tip to shopping for clothes – every little bit helps.
Save the infographic below as a visual reminder and watch your savings add up!
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Are 30 Minute Music Lessons Worth It?
Even if you’re on a budget, chances are, you can afford music lessons by making the tweaks above – even if they’re short!
It’s no secret that learning to play a musical instrument takes time and practice. For many people, the idea of taking music lessons is daunting, and they wonder if it’s really worth the investment.
While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, there are some things to consider when making a decision.
One major benefit of taking music lessons is that it can help improve your concentration and focus. These skills are not only beneficial when learning a new instrument, but they can also transfer to other areas of your life.
In addition, music lessons can provide a much-needed creative outlet, helping you to express yourself in new ways.
And finally, learning to play an instrument can be a great way to meet new people and make friends. If you’re considering taking music lessons, weigh the benefits against the cost to see if it’s right for you.
How to Find Affordable Music Lessons Near Me
There are lots of ways that you can save up for music lessons without breaking the bank. By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you’ll be on your way to giving your child (or yourself!) the gift of music in no time!
With the right tips and tricks, anyone can afford music lessons. Yes, music lessons can be expensive. But don’t let money stand in the way of you reaching your goals and dreams. If you put your mind to it, anything is possible!
Want one more way to make music lessons even more affordable? Start out with online group classes, as opposed to private lessons.
At just $19.95 a month for new students, TakeLessons Live offers group classes in many instruments and skills, from ukulele to music theory. Plus, you’ll get a whole month’s worth of classes for free when you sign up. Try it today!