Boulder Symphony Music Academy (BSMA) offers one-on-one lessons with the finest musicians in the Front Range. Lesson lengths are 30, 45, and 60 minutes and happen once a week with your private teacher.
Private Lessons
Instruments Offered
String Instruments
VIOLIN
The first step in taking violin lessons is finding a qualified teacher who can guide you through the learning process. A good teacher will be able to assess your current level of ability and create a plan that suits your individual needs and goals. They will provide instruction on proper posture, hand position, and bow technique, as well as teaching you how to read sheet music and understand music theory.
Learning the violin requires practice and dedication. It is important to set aside time each day to practice and to remain consistent with your practice routine. Practicing regularly will help you build the muscle memory needed to play the violin with ease and confidence.
As you progress in your violin lessons, you will learn to play different types of music, including classical, folk, and contemporary pieces. You will also learn to perform in front of others, which can be a nerve-wracking but important experience. Playing in front of an audience can help you develop confidence, stage presence, and communication skills.
Taking violin lessons can also provide numerous benefits beyond just learning how to play an instrument. Studies have shown that playing the violin can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment.
In conclusion, taking violin lessons can be an enriching and rewarding experience. It requires dedication, hard work, and patience, but the benefits of learning how to play the violin extend far beyond just mastering the instrument. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, violin lessons can help you achieve your musical goals and develop skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
VIOLA
The first step in taking viola lessons is finding a qualified teacher who can guide you through the learning process. A good teacher will be able to assess your current level of ability and create a plan that suits your individual needs and goals. They will provide instruction on proper posture, hand position, and bow technique, as well as teaching you how to read sheet music and understand music theory.
Learning to play the viola requires consistent practice, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience. As you progress in your viola lessons, you will learn to play different types of music, including classical, folk, and contemporary pieces. You will also learn to perform in front of others, which can be a nerve-wracking but important experience. Playing in front of an audience can help you develop confidence, stage presence, and communication skills.
Taking viola lessons can also provide numerous benefits beyond just learning how to play an instrument. Studies have shown that playing the viola can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment.
In addition, the viola is an essential part of the string section in orchestras and chamber music ensembles. Learning to play the viola can provide opportunities to play in ensembles, make new friends, and collaborate with other musicians.
In conclusion, taking viola lessons can be an enriching and rewarding experience. It requires dedication, hard work, and patience, but the benefits of learning how to play the viola extend far beyond just mastering the instrument. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, viola lessons can help you achieve your musical goals and develop skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
CELLO
The first step in taking cello lessons is finding a qualified teacher who can guide you through the learning process. A good teacher will be able to assess your current level of ability and create a plan that suits your individual needs and goals. They will provide instruction on proper posture, hand position, bow technique, and finger placement, as well as teaching you how to read sheet music and understand music theory.
Learning to play the cello requires consistent practice, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience. As you progress in your cello lessons, you will learn to play different types of music, including classical, folk, and contemporary pieces. You will also learn to perform in front of others, which can be a nerve-wracking but important experience. Playing in front of an audience can help you develop confidence, stage presence, and communication skills.
Taking cello lessons can also provide numerous benefits beyond just learning how to play an instrument. Studies have shown that playing the cello can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment.
In addition, the cello is an essential part of the string section in orchestras and chamber music ensembles. Learning to play the cello can provide opportunities to play in ensembles, make new friends, and collaborate with other musicians.
In conclusion, taking cello lessons is an incredible opportunity to learn to play one of the most beautiful and expressive string instruments in the world. It requires dedication, hard work, and patience, but the benefits of learning how to play the cello extend far beyond just mastering the instrument. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, cello lessons can help you achieve your musical goals and develop skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
GUITAR
The first step in taking guitar lessons is finding a qualified teacher who can guide you through the learning process. A good teacher will be able to assess your current level of ability and create a plan that suits your individual needs and goals. They will provide instruction on proper posture, hand position, finger placement, and strumming or picking technique, as well as teaching you how to read sheet music and understand music theory.
Learning to play the guitar requires consistent practice, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience. As you progress in your guitar lessons, you will learn to play different types of music, including classical, folk, rock, and contemporary pieces. You will also learn to perform in front of others, which can be a nerve-wracking but important experience. Playing in front of an audience can help you develop confidence, stage presence, and communication skills.
Taking guitar lessons can also provide numerous benefits beyond just learning how to play an instrument. Studies have shown that playing the guitar can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment.
In addition, playing the guitar can be a great way to connect with others and collaborate with other musicians. There are many opportunities to play in ensembles, bands, or other musical groups, which can help you develop new friendships and connections within the musical community.
In conclusion, taking acoustic guitar and classical guitar lessons is a fantastic way to develop your skills as a musician and explore different styles of music. It requires dedication, hard work, and patience, but the benefits of learning how to play the guitar extend far beyond just mastering the instrument. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, guitar lessons can help you achieve your musical goals and develop skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
Woodwind Instruments
FLUTE
The first step in taking flute lessons is finding a qualified teacher who can guide you through the learning process. A good teacher will be able to assess your current level of ability and create a plan that suits your individual needs and goals. They will provide instruction on proper posture, hand position, embouchure, and finger placement, as well as teaching you how to read sheet music and understand music theory.
Learning to play the flute requires consistent practice, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience. As you progress in your flute lessons, you will learn to play different types of music, including classical, folk, and contemporary pieces. You will also learn to perform in front of others, which can be a nerve-wracking but important experience. Playing in front of an audience can help you develop confidence, stage presence, and communication skills.
Taking flute lessons can also provide numerous benefits beyond just learning how to play an instrument. Studies have shown that playing the flute can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment.
In addition, the flute is an essential part of the woodwind section in orchestras and chamber music ensembles. Learning to play the flute can provide opportunities to play in ensembles, make new friends, and collaborate with other musicians.
In conclusion, taking flute lessons is a wonderful opportunity to learn how to play one of the most beautiful and versatile woodwind instruments. It requires dedication, hard work, and patience, but the benefits of learning how to play the flute extend far beyond just mastering the instrument. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, flute lessons can help you achieve your musical goals and develop skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
OBOE
The first step in taking oboe lessons is finding a qualified teacher who can guide you through the learning process. A good teacher will be able to assess your current level of ability and create a plan that suits your individual needs and goals. They will provide instruction on proper posture, hand position, and embouchure, as well as teaching you how to read sheet music and understand music theory.
Learning to play the oboe requires consistent practice, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience. As you progress in your oboe lessons, you will learn to play different types of music, including classical, folk, and contemporary pieces. You will also learn to perform in front of others, which can be a nerve-wracking but important experience. Playing in front of an audience can help you develop confidence, stage presence, and communication skills.
Taking oboe lessons can also provide numerous benefits beyond just learning how to play an instrument. Studies have shown that playing the oboe can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment.
In addition, the oboe is an essential part of the woodwind section in orchestras and chamber music ensembles. Learning to play the oboe can provide opportunities to play in ensembles, make new friends, and collaborate with other musicians.
In conclusion, taking oboe lessons is a wonderful opportunity to learn how to play one of the most expressive and unique woodwind instruments. It requires dedication, hard work, and patience, but the benefits of learning how to play the oboe extend far beyond just mastering the instrument. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, oboe lessons can help you achieve your musical goals and develop skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
CLARINET
The first step in taking clarinet lessons is finding a qualified teacher who can guide you through the learning process. A good teacher will be able to assess your current level of ability and create a plan that suits your individual needs and goals. They will provide instruction on proper posture, hand position, embouchure, and finger placement, as well as teaching you how to read sheet music and understand music theory.
Learning to play the clarinet requires consistent practice, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience. As you progress in your clarinet lessons, you will learn to play different types of music, including classical, jazz, and contemporary pieces. You will also learn to perform in front of others, which can be a nerve-wracking but important experience. Playing in front of an audience can help you develop confidence, stage presence, and communication skills.
Taking clarinet lessons can also provide numerous benefits beyond just learning how to play an instrument. Studies have shown that playing the clarinet can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment.
In addition, the clarinet is an essential part of the woodwind section in orchestras and jazz bands. Learning to play the clarinet can provide opportunities to play in ensembles, make new friends, and collaborate with other musicians.
In conclusion, taking clarinet lessons is a fantastic opportunity to learn to play one of the most versatile and expressive woodwind instruments. It requires dedication, hard work, and patience, but the benefits of learning how to play the clarinet extend far beyond just mastering the instrument. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, clarinet lessons can help you achieve your musical goals and develop skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
BASSOON
The first step in taking bassoon lessons is finding a qualified teacher who can guide you through the learning process. A good teacher will be able to assess your current level of ability and create a plan that suits your individual needs and goals. They will provide instruction on proper posture, hand position, embouchure, and finger placement, as well as teaching you how to read sheet music and understand music theory.
Learning to play the bassoon requires consistent practice, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience. As you progress in your bassoon lessons, you will learn to play different types of music, including classical, jazz, and contemporary pieces. You will also learn to perform in front of others, which can be a nerve-wracking but important experience. Playing in front of an audience can help you develop confidence, stage presence, and communication skills.
Taking bassoon lessons can also provide numerous benefits beyond just learning how to play an instrument. Studies have shown that playing the bassoon can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment.
In addition, the bassoon is an essential part of the woodwind section in orchestras and chamber music ensembles. Learning to play the bassoon can provide opportunities to play in ensembles, make new friends, and collaborate with other musicians.
In conclusion, taking bassoon lessons is a great opportunity to learn to play one of the most unique and expressive woodwind instruments. It requires dedication, hard work, and patience, but the benefits of learning how to play the bassoon extend far beyond just mastering the instrument. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, bassoon lessons can help you achieve your musical goals and develop skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
Brass Instruments
FRENCH HORN
The first step in taking French horn lessons is finding a qualified teacher who can guide you through the learning process. A good teacher will be able to assess your current level of ability and create a plan that suits your individual needs and goals. They will provide instruction on proper posture, hand position, embouchure, and finger placement, as well as teaching you how to read sheet music and understand music theory.
Learning to play the French horn requires consistent practice, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience. As you progress in your French horn lessons, you will learn to play different types of music, including classical, jazz, and contemporary pieces. You will also learn to perform in front of others, which can be a nerve-wracking but important experience. Playing in front of an audience can help you develop confidence, stage presence, and communication skills.
Taking French horn lessons can also provide numerous benefits beyond just learning how to play an instrument. Studies have shown that playing the French horn can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment.
In addition, the French horn is an essential part of the brass section in orchestras and chamber music ensembles. Learning to play the French horn can provide opportunities to play in ensembles, make new friends, and collaborate with other musicians.
In conclusion, taking French horn lessons is a unique and rewarding experience that can lead to mastery of one of the most beautiful and powerful brass instruments. It requires dedication, hard work, and patience, but the benefits of learning how to play the French horn extend far beyond just mastering the instrument. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, French horn lessons can help you achieve your musical goals and develop skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
TRUMPET
The first step in taking trumpet lessons is finding a qualified teacher who can guide you through the learning process. A good teacher will be able to assess your current level of ability and create a plan that suits your individual needs and goals. They will provide instruction on proper posture, hand position, embouchure, and finger placement, as well as teaching you how to read sheet music and understand music theory.
Learning to play the trumpet requires consistent practice, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience. As you progress in your trumpet lessons, you will learn to play different types of music, including jazz improvisation, classical repertoire, and contemporary pieces. You will also learn to perform in front of others, which can be a nerve-wracking but important experience. Playing in front of an audience can help you develop confidence, stage presence, and communication skills.
Taking trumpet lessons can also provide numerous benefits beyond just learning how to play an instrument. Studies have shown that playing the trumpet can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment.
In addition, the trumpet is an essential part of the brass section in orchestras and jazz bands. Learning to play the trumpet can provide opportunities to play in ensembles, make new friends, and collaborate with other musicians.
In conclusion, taking trumpet lessons is an exciting opportunity to learn how to play one of the most versatile and popular brass instruments. It requires dedication, hard work, and patience, but the benefits of learning how to play the trumpet extend far beyond just mastering the instrument. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, trumpet lessons can help you achieve your musical goals and develop skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
TROMBONE
The first step in taking trombone lessons is finding a qualified teacher who can guide you through the learning process. A good teacher will be able to assess your current level of ability and create a plan that suits your individual needs and goals. They will provide instruction on proper posture, hand position, embouchure, and slide technique, as well as teaching you how to read sheet music and understand music theory.
Learning to play the trombone requires consistent practice, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience. As you progress in your trombone lessons, you will learn to play different types of music, including jazz improvisation, classical repertoire, and contemporary pieces. You will also learn to perform in front of others, which can be a nerve-wracking but important experience. Playing in front of an audience can help you develop confidence, stage presence, and communication skills.
Taking trombone lessons can also provide numerous benefits beyond just learning how to play an instrument. Studies have shown that playing the trombone can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment.
In addition, the trombone is an essential part of the brass section in orchestras and jazz bands. Learning to play the trombone can provide opportunities to play in ensembles, make new friends, and collaborate with other musicians.
In conclusion, taking trombone lessons is a fantastic opportunity to learn how to play one of the most expressive and versatile brass instruments. It requires dedication, hard work, and patience, but the benefits of learning how to play the trombone extend far beyond just mastering the instrument. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, trombone lessons can help you achieve your musical goals and develop skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
TUBA
Tubas are typically used in a variety of musical ensembles including orchestras, wind bands, brass bands, and marching bands. They can also be used in jazz ensembles or as solo instruments.
Physically, the tuba is usually constructed with a large bell pointing upward, and it uses valves to change the pitch of the notes. The number of valves can vary, with three or four being common for orchestral models, while marching band and jazz models may have more. The specific design and construction of a tuba can significantly affect its tone and pitch.
Tubas come in several different keys, with the most common being BBb and CC for orchestras, and Eb and F for British-style brass bands. The CC tuba is generally used in American orchestras, and the BBb tuba is common in American school bands, and in German and Austrian orchestras. The F and Eb tubas are used in both orchestras and bands.
Despite its size, the tuba is capable of great agility and is used for both powerful, rhythmic basslines and intricate solo passages.
Percussion Instruments
DRUMS
The first step in taking drum set lessons is finding a qualified teacher who can guide you through the learning process. A good teacher will be able to assess your current level of ability and create a plan that suits your individual needs and goals. They will provide instruction on proper posture, hand and foot technique, timing, and coordination, as well as teaching you how to read drum notation and understand music theory.
Learning to play the drum set requires consistent practice, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience. As you progress in your drum set lessons, you will learn to play different types of music, including rock beats, jazz grooves, and intricate rhythms. You will also learn to perform in front of others, which can be a nerve-wracking but important experience. Playing in front of an audience can help you develop confidence, stage presence, and communication skills.
Taking drum set lessons can also provide numerous benefits beyond just learning how to play an instrument. Studies have shown that playing the drums can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment.
In addition, playing the drum set can be a great way to connect with others and collaborate with other musicians. There are many opportunities to play in bands, orchestras, or other musical groups, which can help you develop new friendships and connections within the musical community.
In conclusion, taking drum set lessons is an incredible opportunity to learn how to play one of the most versatile and exciting instruments in the world of music. It requires dedication, hard work, and patience, but the benefits of learning how to play the drum set extend far beyond just mastering the instrument. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, drum set lessons can help you achieve your musical goals and develop skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
PIANO
The first step in taking piano lessons is finding a qualified teacher who can guide you through the learning process. A good teacher will be able to assess your current level of ability and create a plan that suits your individual needs and goals. They will provide instruction on proper posture, hand position, finger placement, and playing technique, as well as teaching you how to read sheet music and understand music theory.
Learning to play the piano requires consistent practice, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience. As you progress in your piano lessons, you will learn to play different types of music, including classical, jazz, and contemporary pieces. You will also learn to perform in front of others, which can be a nerve-wracking but important experience. Playing in front of an audience can help you develop confidence, stage presence, and communication skills.
Taking piano lessons can also provide numerous benefits beyond just learning how to play an instrument. Studies have shown that playing the piano can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment.
In addition, the piano is an essential part of many different genres of music. Learning to play the piano can provide opportunities to collaborate with other musicians and perform in ensembles or bands.
In conclusion, taking piano lessons is a wonderful opportunity to learn to play one of the most versatile and expressive musical instruments. It requires dedication, hard work, and patience, but the benefits of learning how to play the piano extend far beyond just mastering the instrument. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, piano lessons can help you achieve your musical goals and develop skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
Voice Lessons

Voice lessons, also known as singing lessons, are sessions with a professional vocal coach or teacher intended to improve an individual’s singing abilities. These sessions typically cover various areas, including pitch, tone, vocal range, breath control, vocal health, and performance skills. The aim is to enhance the student’s vocal technique and musicality.
Here are some aspects that are typically included in voice lessons:
- Breathing techniques: Singing relies heavily on breath control. Teachers often start with exercises to improve breathing and teach students how to properly use their diaphragm when singing.
- Vocal exercises: These are designed to improve various aspects of the voice, such as range, power, tone quality, and pitch accuracy. They often include scales, arpeggios, and other patterns sung on different vowel sounds.
- Repertoire selection and interpretation: The teacher will usually help students select appropriate songs for their vocal range and skill level. They will work on these songs to improve interpretation, phrasing, and emotional connection.
- Music theory and sight reading: Some voice teachers also teach music theory, which can be helpful in understanding the structure and elements of the songs a student sings. Sight reading (the ability to read and sing music at first sight) is another important skill for singers.
- Performance techniques: This can include how to use a microphone, move on stage, and convey emotion to an audience.
- Vocal health: A good voice teacher will also provide guidance on how to care for the voice, advising on things like hydration, rest, warming up, and cooling down.
Voice lessons can benefit anyone, from beginners who want to learn the basics to professional singers who want to hone their craft. The lessons are tailored to the individual’s skill level, goals, and musical preferences.
Conducting Lessons

Taking conducting lessons is an excellent opportunity to develop your skills in leadership, musicianship, and communication. Conducting is the art of guiding and directing an ensemble of musicians, and it requires a deep understanding of music theory, interpretation, and performance. Learning to conduct requires dedication, practice, and the guidance of a qualified teacher.
The first step in conducting lessons is finding a qualified teacher to guide you through the learning process. A good teacher can assess your current ability level and create a plan that suits your individual needs and goals. They will provide instruction on conducting techniques, score analysis, rehearsal techniques, and other key aspects of conducting.
Learning to conduct requires consistent practice, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience. As you progress in your conducting lessons, you will learn to lead different types of ensembles, including orchestras, choirs, and bands. You will also learn to interpret different types of music, including classical, contemporary, and popular pieces. Conducting lessons can also help you develop important communication, leadership, and teamwork skills.
Taking conducting lessons also provides numerous benefits beyond just learning how to conduct an ensemble. Studies have shown that conducting can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and reduce stress. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment.
In addition, conducting is a highly respected and essential role in the world of music. Conductors are responsible for bringing together and guiding the musical talents of many individuals into a cohesive and beautiful performance. Learning to conduct can provide opportunities to collaborate with other musicians, work with talented soloists, and lead musical organizations.
Taking conducting lessons is an excellent opportunity to develop your skills in leadership, musicianship, and communication. While conducting requires dedication, hard work, and patience, the benefits extend far beyond just mastering the technique. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced musician, conducting lessons can help you achieve your musical goals and develop skills that will benefit you for a lifetime.
Alexander Technique

The Alexander Technique is an educational process created by Frederick Matthias Alexander (1869–1955), a Shakespearean orator who developed the method while trying to address his own problems with voice loss during performances. The technique is a type of teaching that helps people unlearn harmful postural and movement habits and replace them with more efficient and less stressful ways of moving.
The Alexander Technique isn’t just about posture but about improving how we use our bodies. Used by people of all ages and abilities to enhance performance in all activities, the unique method teaches people how to stop using unnecessary muscular and mental tension levels during everyday life.
The technique is often taught one on one with a certified Alexander Technique teacher. The teacher uses verbal instructions and gentle hands-on guidance to help students find ease and balance within themselves in simple movements and positions such as sitting, standing, and walking.
Tuition
2022-2023 School Year
30-minute: $160/month
45-minute: $215/month
60-minute: $278/month
Fall Semester
30-minute: $160/month
45-minute: $218/month
60-minute: $280/month
Spring Semester
30-minute: $190/month
45-minute: $257/month
60-minute: $330/month
8-Lesson Package
30-minute: $392
45-minute: $511
60-minute: $660
Tuition is paid in 10 payments, which covers 36 weekly lessons. Payments are due at the first lesson of each month (September–May). August’s tuition payment is due while registering.
Payment Schedule: August at time of registration, September 1, October 1, November 1, December 1, January 1, February 1, March 1, April 1, and May 1.
Registration Fee: A $30 registration fee will be charged at registration.
Duplicate Billing: Only one party will be billed per student. Duplicate bills and split payments are the responsibility of the registering guardian.
Important Dates
Stay up to date with Boulder Symphony Music Academy events, from holiday breaks to end-of-semester recitals.
Fall ’22 Semester: August 15th – December 15th
Thanksgiving Break: November 21st – 25th
Winter Recital: December 11th
Spring ’23 Semester: January 2nd – May 25th
Spring Break: March 27th – March 30th
Spring Recital: May 13th
Summer Session: May 29 – August 11th
Fall ’23 Semester: Begins August 14th
Scholarships
JARED Music Foundation Scholarship
Boulder Symphony & Music Academy is proud to be partnering with the JARED Music Foundation to offer scholarships to students in need.
JARED Music Foundation’s Mission
The JARED Music Foundation intends to bring those dynamic and impactful feelings of creating and experiencing music into the community by expanding access to instruments and music education and coming together over music and art to honor and celebrate Jared.
Group Classes
Music Prodigies and Parents
2023 Summer Dates: 6/6, 6/13, 6/20, and 6/27
Day and Time: Tuesdays from 12:00-1:00pm
Ages: 3-5 years old
Price: $100