FAQs
info@music-ally.org
How much do lessons cost?
All of our lessons and membership fees are based on a sliding scale, meaning you name the price. We encourage families with the means to match market rate, knowing that their money is directly supporting the musical education of a second child, and building our larger musical community of Practice Buddies. Cost should never be prohibitive. Students from any financial circumstance are welcome to apply.
In major U.S. cities, market rate for lessons with high caliber teachers ranges from $80 - $120.
Are lessons only for kids?
No. Adults of any age who are interested in paying to study with our faculty are welcome to apply. They will have the option to participate in the Practice Buddy program and connect with another adult student. Currently, free lessons through our buy-one-give-one program are only available for children (up to age 18). With their lesson fees, adults help gift lessons for MusicAlly students without financial resources.
Kate L. in a violin lesson with MusicAlly Founder Caeli Smith
What is the age range for students?
MusicAlly serves children ages 3 - 18, and adults of any age. Adults are not eligible to receive free lessons through our buy-one-give-one program.
How else can I support your work?
Click here to support MusicAlly with a financial gift or in-kind donations such as instruments or equipment.
Does an adult need to be present during lessons?
Oversight and collaboration with an adult is a crucial component of a child’s success (especially when a student is below the age of 13.) Adults are strongly encouraged to be at least within earshot, if not sitting next to their student, for the duration of the lesson. All lessons are recorded and reviewed by MusicAlly staff. Families may receive and review lesson recordings.
What’s the time commitment?
MusicAlly lessons are 30, 45, or 60 minutes based on the age of the student. View our Student Contract.
Why is an online lesson worth paying for?
Our faculty are graduates of the top conservatories in the country; have appeared as soloists on the world’s greatest stages; and have demonstrated a deep commitment to education and community building through music. Their students have been accepted to prestigious music programs around the country and the world. But more importantly, they are committed to fostering a lifelong love of music in each child, and they have collective decades of teaching experience.
Can I/my child start as a total beginner?
Yes! We will connect you with the tools you need to start, including an instrument and other equipment as needed.
Do I need to own an instrument?
No. Financial support and instruments are provided for students with need. (On our application, students are asked to indicate whether or not they currently have an instrument.)
How are Practice Buddies matched? Will my child be connected with the student whose lesson helped pay for theirs/whose lesson they helped pay for?
Practice Buddies are matched based on age, ability, instrument, and interests — and not necessarily between paying students and students whose lessons are gifted. The financial status of each student is confidential and not disclosed through the Practice Buddy program.
Can I take an in-person lesson?
All MusicAlly lessons and activities take place on Zoom.