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Individual Lessons are available in all instruments, voice, composition, and jazz improvisation with ECMS instructors and Student Teachers. Lessons are offered in person and online.
Private lessons typically begin around age 7; younger children may start piano or strings earlier. Voice lessons usually begin around age 10.
At ECMS, we value the unique contributions of each teacher. Students are encouraged to engage with the broader community by attending recitals, studio classes, and workshops.
Lesson Options
Student Teachers
Student Teachers are outstanding Eastman School of Music undergraduate and graduate students selected for their performance and teaching abilities. They bring fresh perspective and enthusiasm, but since their time at ECMS is limited, students should be prepared to transition to a new teacher when a Student Teacher graduates. We start seeking new Student Teachers as soon as we are aware of potential departure or graduation and encourage students to attend events where they can meet other faculty members. When a Student Teacher is graduating or concluding their tenure at ECMS, they will coordinate with the ECMS Director and Department Chair to provide a smooth start with a new teacher.
Instructors
Instructors are professional artist-educators, many of whom have been with ECMS for years. They teach all ages and levels, including adults, and provide continuity throughout a student’s musical development.
Some Eastman collegiate faculty also offer lessons through ECMS and set their own fees. Contact the ECMS office for more information.
Spring/Fall Lessons
Tuition
School year tuition is billed over the course of two consecutive semesters. Fall lessons are automatically re-registered for Spring semester, unless the student submits a written request to cancel before the semester begins.
Click here for billing details, including monthly payment plans.
2025-26 School Year
(per semester)
| Lesson Length | Instructor Tuition | Student Teacher Tuition |
| 30-min weekly | $644 | $462 |
| 45-min weekly | $952 | $670 |
| 60-min weekly | $1,193 | $832 |
Summer Lessons
Summer is a wonderful time to continue lessons or try something new! The eight-week session goes from June 27 – August 23, 2025*, though individual teachers’ availability and schedules may vary (*no lessons July 4-5). Please register by July 1.
Summer 2025 Lesson Tuition
| Lesson Length | Instructor Tuition | Student Teacher Tuition |
| 30-min weekly | $322 | $231 |
| 45-min weekly | $476 | $335 |
| 60-min weekly | $596 | $416 |
How to Register
New Students:
- Please complete an ECMS Application for placement with a teacher. Lessons may begin every four weeks throughout of year.
- Each new student requesting lessons will be assigned to a student teacher or instructor. Requests for a particular teacher will be honored when possible. Once the assignment has been made, the teacher will contact the student directly to schedule lessons based on a mutually agreed upon lesson time and day.
Continuing Students:
- Students continuing lessons with their same teacher may register online from May through mid-August.
- Continuing students requesting lessons in a new instrument or with a new teacher should submit a “new student” application to be connected with a teacher. Once a teacher assignment has been made, the teacher will contact the student directly to schedule lessons based on a mutually agreed upon day and time.
Click here for complete details on registration and policies.