Private Lessons

at Brookline Music School

We invite children, teens, and adults to start private lessons at any time of year. Individualized attention is an important focus at BMS, beginning with our initial enrollment process. Because we consider a strong student-teacher relationship essential, our Director of Education personally places each student with a thoughtfully chosen teacher.

To enroll, simply submit a Private Lesson Inquiry Form to provide information on your preferences and music background in order to be connected with a talented teacher. BMS students enjoy the best learning environment -- individual instruction with an experienced faculty member plus the expanded benefits of a large school-wide learning community.

Enroll Today

Call now, or fill out our inquiry form for more information.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Questions

  • 1 -

    To begin the enrollment process fill out an inquiry form or contact us by phone. You’ll need to speak with our Director of Education, who will work with you to place the student based on learning style, interests, schedule, etc.

  • 2 -

    Students enroll for once-a-week private lessons. Private lessons are offered 7 days a week, but availability of teachers/instruments varies by day. The fall term is 16 weeks long and begins in September. The spring term is 16 weeks long and begins in February. Private lessons are also available over the summer.

  • 3 -

    Students must register for a full semester of lessons (or the current amount of lessons left in the semester) but there is a three-lesson trial period. Students may withdraw for a partial refund before the fourth lesson.

  • 4 -

    Students can begin private lessons as early as age 6, depending on the instrument they wish to study. The Suzuki program allows students to begin flute or violin as early as age 4. Students may also begin in the group piano program as early as Pre-K.

  • 5 -

    Yes! Adults of all levels may sign up for private lessons. No experience necessary!

  • 6 -

    Generally, no. All lessons take place either at Kennard House or in select Brookline Public School locations. In rare cases of extenuating circumstances, certain teachers may be able to offer in-home lessons for an added travel fee.

Private lesson students have many opportunities to play music with others at Brookline Music School through masterclasses, recitals, salons, Dynamic Duos and more at no extra cost. There are also tuition-based opportunities to expand your skills, such as Youth Chamber Ensembles, Adult Chamber Ensembles and Jazz Ensembles & Rock Bands. Browse BMS classes and programs to discover more!

Youth Chamber Ensembles & Adult Chamber Ensembles


Chamber music groups rehearse repertoire of the classical tradition from the early baroque to contemporary periods. Groups are open to instrumentalists of all ages and levels, generally after having completed a minimum of 2 years’ private instrument study, and having attained basic music literacy. Rehearsals emphasize listening skills, musical communication... (read more)

Jazz Ensembles & Rock Bands


Jazz ensembles & rock bands offer the excitement of group playing in a relaxed yet challenging setting... (read more)

Studio Classes


Faculty members may offer studio classes to foster community and comradery among students who study with the same teacher. During studio classes, participants have the chance to practice performing for one another, to share their process on specific musical projects, and to offer feedback and encouragement to their peers, in a supportive environment.

Contact Us

Brookline Music School is a nonprofit organization that has provided excellence in music education to the Greater Boston community since 1924. We rely on the generous support of our donors to benefit the community through music.

Brookline Music School welcomes students of all ages. Enrollment is open year-round so students may begin private lesson study at any time. Join us!


Regular Hours

Monday to Friday: 9 am to 9 pm
Saturday and Sunday: 8 am to 7 pm

See the Lessons & Classes or Early Childhood calendars for holiday schedules including flex days, make-up days and closures.