Violin Lessons Cost

Low: Group lessons $20-$45 per month

Medium: Private lessons start at $15-$35 per half hour

High: Private lessons can run $40-$100+ per half hour

Typical costs:

Private lessons start around $15 -$35 or more per half-hour, but can be $40 -$100 or more per half hour if the teacher has special qualifications, such as advanced degrees or experience playing in a prestigious orchestra. Longer lessons are priced proportionately, but a half-hour or 45 minutes is common for beginners, because a longer session can be overwhelming.
Group lessons are typically for younger students, run about $20 -$45 or more a month, and usually are offered in addition to (rather than instead of) private lessons.
Teach yourself CDs and DVDs run $30 -$80 or more; online lesson services can be $30 -$200 or more. FolkOfTheWood.com offers free written lessons, with photos and ViolinMasterClass.com offers free online video lesson.

What should be included:

Lessons are usually once a week. Some teachers specialize in young students; others in adult learners. Traditional lessons teach students to read music a few notes at a time, using books designed for beginners. Under the Suzuki method, extremely young children learn to play by hearing and repetition rather than reading music. For violin, Suzuki teachers usually combine private and group lessons; often, a parent and child attend these sessions together.
In private lessons, a trained teacher provides immediate feedback and encouragement. During that time the teacher may review assignments, listen to the student play, make comments, explain the theory involved in a particular exercise or piece, or play an assignment so the student can hear it performed with proper technique and styling. Typically, there will an assignment to practice before the next lesson.

Additional costs:

A teacher may provide a list of books and other materials that will be needed for the lessons, or sell them directly to the student. Expect to spend anywhere from $25 -$75 or more each year for music books.
Depending on the nature of the event, there might be fees ranging from $2 -$200 or more to participate in recitals, performances or competitions.

Discounts:

Shopping for violin lessons:

Ask for teacher recommendations from the local music store or nearby schools or community colleges, as well as from family members or friends who play violin. ViolinOnline.com lists tips for selecting a violin teacher.
The Music Teachers National Association provides a brochure about choosing a teacher for your child, plus a link to search for certified music teachers in your area.
Strings Magazine hosts a directory of stringed-instrument music schools and Violinist.com provides a list of summer violin camps.

Article updated August 2008