September and back-to-school season are right around the corner. That makes it the perfect time to start looking for a music school. Picking the right one is an important decision. The music school you choose will have a lasting impression on your or your children’s musical career. It’s no wonder finding the right music school for yourself or your children can be intimidating. There are many important factors to consider as you search.

With that in mind, we have 5 of the most important details to keep in mind to help you make the right choice.

How to Pick the Right Music School For You

Location

When deciding on a music school for yourself or your children, keeping the school’s location in mind is essential. The location will have an impact on any student’s time in school, as well as their future music career.

The best way to think about this is in terms of connections. Is the location of the music school in the area where you want to make musical connections? Of course, the teachers will most likely have connections that go beyond the area of the school’s location, and students often travel far away for performances. That said, you or your child likely will spend a lot of time near the school.

On the other hand, with virtual lessons now a popular option, the physical location of the school you choose may not be the most critical factor. However, you should still consider it carefully.

Programs

The next factor to consider is the programs a music school offers. For example, if you’re interested in music production, you won’t want a school offering exclusively instrument-based programs. It’s the same if your child wants to study the violin, and the music school you’ve selected focuses more on the technical side of making music.

It’s best not to bend your desires and passions to fit into a music program. Instead, find the right music school with a curriculum that matches your or your children’s goals.

Faculty

The next factor to look into is the school’s faculty. Choosing a school with an accomplished and experienced faculty is essential for the musical future of any student. Instructors play an important role in both your education and networking opportunities.

Most music schools list their faculty on their website. Take time to look at their bios, their accomplishments, and if they are still working on projects.

Performance Opportunities

Performing is an integral part of learning to make music, whether you’re a singer or want to play a particular instrument. For this reason, it’s vital to take the time to look into the types of performance opportunities a school may offer.

You’ll want to be thorough in your research. You’ll want to choose a school that will provide the best opportunities for you or your children to grow as musicians, engineers, or producers.

In-Person vs Online

Do you or your children need a more hands-on approach? Would you prefer to work with teachers and other students in person? Or is a flexible schedule and the ability to have your lessons at home more important?

Choosing between in-person and online lessons can be difficult, but there are a few key things to keep in mind:

• Cost: generally speaking, online lessons are less expensive, especially when you factor in the lack of commute.
• Program Availability: In-person schools usually offer a wider variety of programs.
• How Organized/Flexible Are You: An online program may work well if you or your child are highly organized and self-motivated. On the other hand, if a need for structure is more apparent, in-person lessons may be best.
• Recorded Opportunities: One advantage of online lessons is that they are often recorded. That allows students to go back and rewatch themselves and progress at their own speed.
• Events and Activities: If you want to attend events, performances, and other “hands-on” activities, then in-person lessons will usually be the right choice.

It’s important to remember that there are no right or wrong answers to these questions, only what is right or wrong for you or your children. Your answers help narrow your choices and help you find the right music school.

In the End, Listen to Your Gut

When making your choice, it’s important to trust your instincts. Go over all your information, let it sink in, then listen to your gut. Your instincts will take all the information you have gathered and draw the appropriate conclusion based on your experiences speaking with each teacher. If you don’t feel like you’ve made a solid connection with any of your prospective instructors, keep looking. If you try out a school for your child that is not a good fit, feel free to look for a change. Any professional music instructor will understand and support your decision. You need to do what you think is best for your child.

Take your time. Remember, you’re trying to find the right music school for your child, not for anyone else. Speak to those you know who have gone through the experience, do your homework, speak with your shortlist, and most of all, listen to your guts. If you follow these simple guidelines, you’ll be sure to find your child the right teacher for them in no time!

Wondering about The Music Studio? Check out all our programs and classes, and feel free to contact us with any questions you may have!