How To Prepare For Your First Lesson

• Choosing the right instrument
• Set up a home practice space
• Bringing the right supplies for your first lesson
• Know what to expect for your first lesson

Private music lessons offer personalized instruction tailored to a student’s individual learning style, pace, and goals. With one-on-one attention, students receive immediate feedback and focused guidance that helps them progress more efficiently. Whether you’re a first time musician or returning to private lessons after taking some time off, we’re here to help you feel completely prepared for your first music lesson. 

Choose the Right Instrument (If You Haven’t Already)

Picking an instrument can be tough, but it’s important to feel confident about your choice before you go to your first music lesson. 

If you’re still on the fence, a few things you can consider are: 

• cost & maintenance 
• learning curve 
• practice & space requirements 

When in doubt, listen to recordings of different instruments to find a sound you enjoy! Some music schools also offer “instrument petting zoos” for students who know they want to take lessons but aren’t sure which instrument to go with. You can even try out a few instruments and decide from there which one you’re most interested in! 

This is also a great opportunity to look into the pros and cons of renting vs. buying your instrument. No matter what you pick, make sure you have a well-functioning, appropriately sized instrument for your needs. If you’re not sure where to start, the National Educational Music Company details how to choose a musical instrument on their website, so that you can help your child make the best choice for their future!

Set Up a Practice Space at Home

Creating a practice space at home before your first lesson can help you that much more prepared to learn your instrument! This can look like: 

• Choosing a quiet, distraction-free environment
• Proper seating and lighting (pay attention to that posture!) 
• Letting roommates & neighbors know what times you’ll be practicing (and respect building quiet hours!) 
• Having your instrument visible and out of the case can also help encourage regular practice. Some string players even have their instruments hanging from the wall—it makes it that much easier to get it down and play! For piano, this is as simple as leaving the key cover open! 

Bring the Right Supplies

Here are a few things to make sure you have before you go to your first music lesson: 

• reeds and a neck strap (for woodwinds) 
• valve oil (for brass instruments)
• rosin (for violin, viola, or cello bows) 
• guitar picks (for guitar) 
• pencil 
• notebook (for lesson notes and practice reminders) 

Sweetwater is a great place to start for gear for all instruments! Once you’re at the lesson, you can chat with your teacher about which beginner music book they’d like you to start out on. Avoid purchasing this before the lesson unless your teacher has already told you which book to buy—every teacher is slightly different, and they may have different recommendations for the first music book you use. 

Know What to Expect During the Lesson

Your very first lesson will probably include: 

• Warm-up activities or basic technique introduction
• Learning how to hold or use the instrument properly
• Introduction to rhythm, notes, or a simple song

While you won’t be a pro by the end of this lesson, you’ll definitely feel more comfortable and familiar with your instrument! Asking questions is always encouraged, and is a great way to get to know your instrument and your teacher. 

It’s important to share your goals, experience level, or any challenges you’re having throughout your music lessons. Ask about practice expectations, future performance opportunities, and how you can make the most out of your practice at home. Making sure you and your teacher are on the same page will help you have the best experience possible! 

Be sure to come to your lesson with an open mind and positive attitude. It’s okay to be nervous—your teacher probably expects it! As you continue with lessons, be sure to focus on progress, not perfection. 

You’re Ready For Your First Lesson! 

Remember: every expert was once a beginner! Incredibly talented performers like Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, and Harry Styles all started exactly where you are right now, and regular practice and dedication to your instrument will help you reach milestones you never thought possible!

A little extra preparation goes a long way, especially when you’re getting ready for your very first music lesson. When you’ve prepared your practice space, brought the right supplies, and rent or bought an instrument ahead of time, you’ll be more than prepared for your first official music lesson! So get excited, stay prepared, and enjoy your upcoming musical journey!