Best Schools for Music Lessons in Winnipeg
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6 Best Schools for Music Lessons in Winnipeg

Learning music improves health, stimulates creativity, and even establishes discipline. 

It also gives us a certain kind of comfort, listening to melodies and harmonies — and a major confidence boost once we learn how to play music ourselves. 

It’s never too late to learn the right instrument or train those vocal cords. So, check out our list of the best schools for music lessons in Winnipeg to start discovering that musical side of you.

How much do music lessons cost in Winnipeg?

Before starting your musical journey, it’s important to also prepare your budget to make sure that it won’t be a hassle once you start your lessons.

These are some of the costs of the basic music programs. However, these may still vary depending on the school, the instructor, and the type of music you are planning to learn.

Types of ProgramsRange of Cost
In-studio Private Music Lessons$40 – $100 per hour
Online Music Lessons$50 – $70
Group Music Lessons$30 – $50 per hour
Private Lessons Monthly Package$100 – $300
Music Camps$300 – $800 per week
Individual Music Therapy$60 – $90 per hour
Group Music Therapy$70 – $100 per hour

Best Schools for Music Lessons in Winnipeg

Now that we have covered the cost of some music programs in Winnipeg, it’s also important to make sure that you are getting the best out of this list. 

That’s why we used these criteria for a proper screening:

Qualification of instructors – Your instructor must be able to show effective teaching techniques, proper musical skills, and experience to prove their mastery. With all this, they must also be able to show patience and understanding.
Flexibility with age groups and skill levels – It’s important that your chosen school can teach different people regardless of their age and level of skill in music.
Variety of lessons and programs – We provided schools that teach multiple instruments and offer different programs such as private and group tutoring or even online lessons.
Program benefits – Your musical journey shouldn’t stop once you finish your lessons. Here, we have listed schools that can give you more opportunities outside the classroom such as music camps, performances, and certification.
Availability – It’s important to consider the opening hours of the music schools. Whether you’re a beginner or not, how often you get to be with your instructor affects how much you will learn and how far you’ll go. 

1. School of Rock Winnipeg

School of Rock Winnipeg
SERVICESGuitar Lessons, Drum Lessons, Singing Lessons, Bass Guitar Lessons, Keyboard & Piano Lessons, Music Camps, Online Music Lessons
WEBSITEhttps://www.schoolofrock.com/locations/winnipeg
ADDRESS657 Corydon Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3M 0W3, Canada
PRICES$150 – $350 per month
CONTACT DETAILS+1 (204) 615-7625

[email protected]

OPERATING HOURSMonday to Friday: 3:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

CriteriaRatings
Qualification of instructors★★★★★ (5/5)
Flexibility with age groups and skill levels★★★★★ (5/5)
Variety of lessons and programs★★★★☆ (4/5)
Program benefits★★★★☆ (4/5)
Availability★★★★☆ (4/5)

Neil Young, Burton Cummings, Randy Bachman, and Brent Fitz are only some of the esteemed music artists in the Winnipeg area. 

Young ones who witnessed their performances will surely be inspired to become part of a band or play an instrument of their own.

School of Rock Winnipeg provides an inclusive, safe, and fun environment for people of all ages who wish to learn or expand their music skills.

It offers instruments and vocal lessons through practice-oriented sessions led by enthusiastic, friendly, and talented music teachers. They’re actually one of the reasons why students are always looking forward to the lessons!

Not only that, but the teachers are very dedicated to what they do, and they also provide feedback after each lesson to encourage the student’s growth.

Another thing that we really love about it is the fun and energetic atmosphere that makes the students so eager to learn. 

This school is in a partnership with some of the music industry’s biggest brands, so the students can directly purchase high-quality music gear from it.

However, as the name suggests, it only focuses on the rock genre.

Nonetheless, it offers a Performance Program where students can have the opportunity to perform at local music venues in front of a live audience. It aims to build their confidence and teach them the important life skills centered on responsibility and teamwork.

School of Rock Winnipeg is more than just a school — it’s a community based on building confidence, a sense of belonging, and a love for music.

We really admire how it lets students experience the life of a musician and perform with their bandmates in front of a crowd, rather than just simply teaching them how to play music in a studio.

Although it’s more expensive and has a smaller variety of instrument lessons than most schools, we can assure you that the exciting programs, workshops, and seasonal concerts are definitely worth every penny. And don’t worry, it has a free trial!

Pros

  • Direct purchase of music gear
  • Many available events
  • Free trial available
  • Online registration
  • Wide variety of programs
  • For all ages and skill levels
  • Highly skilled and passionate instructors

Cons

  • Smaller variety of instrument lessons than other schools
  • More focused on the rock genre
  • More expensive than most schools

Customer Reviews

Great music school

“Great music school, the learning is practice-oriented, the teachers very competent and the staff are just amazing (friendly and available). I like to learn with my favorite music.

Great music school, you learn theory with actual songs, teachers are skillful and the staff is awesome. Friendly and receptive. I like learning with my favorite songs.” — Amandine Kern

Worth every penny

“Incredible staff and program. I would recommend SOR to anyone that will listen. We have been with program since my son was 3. I credit his love for music,  that isn’t baby shark, to all of those at SOR! That alone is worth every penny.” — Candice Mitchell

2. Groove Academy

Groove Academy
SERVICESDrum Lessons, Violin Lessons, Piano Lessons, Woodwind & Brass Lessons, Guitar Lessons, Band Program, Voice Lessons, Music Theory, Group Lessons, Music Camps, Online Music Lessons
WEBSITEhttps://grooveacademy.ca/
ADDRESS48 Speers Rd Unit B, Winnipeg, MB R2J 1M3, Canada
PRICESYou can view the prices of lessons here.
CONTACT DETAILS+1 (204) 254-2184

[email protected]

OPERATING HOURSMonday to Thursday: 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Friday: 1:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM

CriteriaRatings
Qualification of instructors★★★★★ (5/5)
Flexibility with age groups and skill levels★★★★★ (5/5)
Variety of lessons and programs★★★★★ (5/5)
Program benefits★★★★★ (5/5)
Availability★★★★☆ (4/5)

Groove Academy started as a drum studio that focused solely on drums and percussion. 

Eventually, its owner Anthony Giancola decided to expand the academy to offer a wider variety of lessons including piano, guitar, bass guitar, voice, violin, and woodwind instruments.

It’s definitely one of the most accessible music schools in Canada, offering both in-home and online music lessons for those who wish to stay in the comfort of their homes.

We like that it offers a “Meet & Greet” where students can book a one-on-one meeting with their instructor in order to get a grasp of how their lessons would go and get to know each other beforehand.

What we really love about it is the individualized teaching approach to suit the needs of every student. 

The lessons are personalized to match each student’s skills, which makes the learning part easier, faster, and more enjoyable.

The variety of services and events are truly impressive: recitals, music camps, free community music lessons, instrument rentals, and access to thousands of music sheets — you name it!

Most importantly, the teachers are very patient and understanding. They play a huge role in establishing a safe and comfortable atmosphere for the students to learn at ease.

One student actually told us that Groove Academy made them feel so warm and welcome that they always attend lessons even on cold winter days.

It’s definitely a friendly and pleasant environment, especially for beginners. 

However, it has short open hours, especially on weekends, and they don’t really cover all the genres that you may want to learn.

Pros

  • Multiple locations
  • Free community music lessons
  • Available instrument rentals
  • Many available events
  • Informative website
  • Access to music sheets
  • Online registration
  • Free meet and greet
  • For all ages and skill levels
  • Applies individualized teaching approach

Cons

  • Short opening hours
  • Not all genres are covered

Customer Reviews

Like family

“My boys started lessons at Groove Academy when they were 6 and 7 and continued until they were 16 and 17. They had lessons in drums, flute, piano and bass guitar and enjoyed learning from all their instructors. Anthony and Shannon are still like family to us. The boys are 17 and 19 now and are enjoying playing in their own rock bands.” — Marie Tulloch

Professional and patient

“My 7 year old son started piano lessons here and it’s coming to a year since he started. He has really learned alot, the instructor is so professional and patient with him. Would highly recommend for those looking for one on one music lessons or even group sessions. They also have day camps for spring break and also summer camp.  My son attended the spring break day camp and he really loved it. Great experience overall.” — Oriana Musiime

3. Quest Musique 

Quest Musique 
SERVICESGuitar Lessons, Drum Lessons, Piano Lessons, Bass Lessons, Vocal Lessons, Ukulele Lessons, Violin Lessons, Rock School
WEBSITEhttps://www.questmusicstore.com/
ADDRESS1308 Portage Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3G 0V2, Canada
CONTACT DETAILS+1 (204) 233-4151
OPERATING HOURSMonday to Friday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

CriteriaRatings
Qualification of instructors★★★★★ (5/5)
Flexibility with age groups and skill levels★★★★★ (5/5)
Variety of lessons and programs★★★★☆ (4/5)
Program benefits★★★★☆ (4/5)
Availability★★★★☆ (4/5)

Quest Music Academy is a lesser-known music school in Winnipeg that offers just as much quality education. Its main branch is nestled inside Quest Music Store at 1308 Portage Avenue.

Its main objective is to provide a fun and educational learning environment that will bring out the enthusiasm in every student and keep them engaged throughout the lessons.

Music instructors are the pride of this school. In fact, they are considered some of the best in Winnipeg with decades of experience in the field of music education and performance. 

They are highly passionate about music, and it really shows in their eagerness to teach.

The instructors believe in the importance of individual learning, and that’s why they focus on one-on-one sessions with a customized curriculum based on the level and strength of each student. 

This way, they can give more attention and feedback to the student’s areas of difficulty.

Plus, there are plenty of instructional method books provided for the students as they progress in their lessons. Instruments and accessories are also available for rent or purchase.

Aside from the various instruments and vocal lessons, it also has a rock band program called ‘ROCKsCOOL’ wherein the students can form their own band and attend weekly rehearsals. 

The help of the instructors also encourages the students to pursue songwriting and create original compositions.

What’s even more exciting is their weekend-long, spring recital that takes place in June of each year. It gives the students an opportunity to perform in front of a live audience to show off their progress and accomplishments to their loved ones.

Since it is located inside a music store, the studio is quite small compared to the other schools. Though this might not be a big issue, it still might be something you’d find bothersome. 

Moreover, there aren’t a lot of unique events available.

Pros

  • Highly experienced instructors
  • Available instrument rentals
  • Informative website
  • For all ages & skills levels
  • Highly skilled and passionate instructors

Cons

  • Small space
  • Smaller variety of programs and events

Customer Reviews

Makes you feel important

“I love the teachers and staff. Everyone makes you feel important” — Linda Loutt-Wichers

Immensely knowledgeable staff

“The best music store in Canada! Supporting local business is easy when they have literally everything – old stuff, new stuff and immensely knowledgeable staff plus lessons, repairs and killer prices!” — Chris Steffes

4. Prelude Music

Prelude Music
SERVICESMusic Therapy, Piano Lessons, Guitar/Bass/Ukulele Lessons, Cello Lessons, Voice Lessons, Violin Lessons, Music Theory Lessons, Adapted Music Lessons, Melodies & ABCs
WEBSITEhttps://preludemusic.ca/
ADDRESS1700 Corydon Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3N 0K1, Canada
PRICES½ hour = $22, ¾ hour = $33, 1 hour = $44
CONTACT DETAILS+1 (204) 800-1332

[email protected]

OPERATING HOURSMonday & Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Tuesday & Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

CriteriaRatings
Qualification of instructors★★★★★ (5/5)
Flexibility with age groups and skill levels★★★★☆ (4/5)
Variety of lessons and programs★★★★☆ (4/5)
Program benefits★★★★☆ (4/5)
Availability★★★★☆ (4/5)

Looking for a child-friendly music school that will cater to the specific needs of your young ones? Then Prelude Music is right up your alley!

It offers high-quality, affordable, and accessible music lessons for children and youth by providing creative, engaging, and client-centered services.

The dedicated team of teachers values every individual’s unique ability and modifies the lessons based on their level and knowledge. 

They are highly professional and very attentive to the children’s needs, so parents don’t have to worry one bit.

What we truly admire about it is its dedication to teaching young children. It prides itself on how much the children are learning at each level and always makes sure to focus on developing the child’s potential skills.

It offers private music lessons for piano, guitar, bass, ukulele, violin, cello, vocals, as well as group music therapy services.

What’s more, we learned that Melodies & ABCs is every client’s favorite. It’s a parent-child music class that allows them to explore and learn specific instruments in the most engaging way possible. 

For parents and children, it’s the most productive way to spend time together.

Moreover, it’s truly commendable how the music teachers make themselves available to work 7 days a week just to ensure that music lessons will be scheduled whenever it’s convenient for the family. 

Their flexibility is something that not every music school has.

Prelude Music is definitely the perfect place for everyone who’s looking for dedicated and compassionate teachers that bring out the best in their children.

However, if you are an adult, you might want to look for other schools because this one really focuses on younger students. That also means fewer programs and events compared to other music schools.

Pros

  • Long open hours
  • Personalized lessons
  • Flexible schedule
  • Offer Melodies & ABCs
  • Highly dedicated and skilled instructors
  • Affordable

Cons

  • More focused on young learners
  • Smaller variety of programs and events

Customer Reviews

Enthusiastic and engaging

“The parent-child group music classes (Melodies & ABCs) at Prelude Music are a favourite for my three daughters and I. We have been attending regularly for 5 years and have experienced all class levels ranging from the 6-month old group to the 5-year old program. Staff are professional, enthusiastic and engaging and it is a true pleasure to see the many educational and musical concepts presented to students as we sing, dance and play our way through the class! We would highly recommend the services of Prelude Music.” — Allana Carlyle

Very caring

“I strong recommend Prelude: Michelle is so passionate for what she does, and very caring with the Family needs. Paige is an awesome teacher,  very attention with the children needs, encouraging our son to play actual songs, we loved the Recital….our Family in Brazil loved to see the videos! Thank you so much Michelle and Paige!” — Leonardo Freitas

5. River Heights School of Music

River Heights School of Music
SERVICESPiano Lessons, Singing Lessons, Guitar Lessons, Drum Lessons, Violin Lessons, Ukulele Lessons, Bass Lessons, Recording Lessons, Woodwind Lessons, Percussion Lessons, Video Music Lessons, Summer Music Lessons
WEBSITEhttps://www.riverheightsmusicschool.com/
ADDRESS2025 Corydon Ave #202, Winnipeg, MB R3P 0N5, Canada
CONTACT DETAILS+1 (204) 487-3664
OPERATING HOURSSeptember to June

Monday to Thursday: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Friday: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM


July & August

Tuesday to Thursday: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM

CriteriaRatings
Qualification of instructors★★★★★ (5/5)
Flexibility with age groups and skill levels★★★★☆ (4/5)
Variety of lessons and programs★★★★★ (5/5)
Program benefits★★★★★ (5/5)
Availability★★★★★ (5/5)

River Heights School of Music is another easily accessible music school in Winnipeg that is located inside Tuxedo Park Shopping Mall. 

It is often recommended by music professionals and now we know why.

As soon as you step inside the school, you will immediately be welcomed by friendly front desk staff. The lively and positive atmosphere inside will make you want to learn right away.

You can choose from a wide variety of music lessons, and the students can also choose between all styles of music.

The music teachers are all professional musicians with extensive performance experience. 

They are friendly, enthusiastic, and willing to help you achieve your personal goals. You can even choose more than one teacher for learning an instrument.

Like other music schools, it focuses on private music lessons for the maximum learning experience. The warm and comfortable environment also makes learning easier and more enjoyable.

And of course, it’s not just about learning how to play. Music is meant to be shared with everyone.

That’s why it holds a recital once a year that provides an opportunity for the students to perform in front of an audience and showcase their progress.

One more thing that we really like about River Heights School of Music is the convenient location. Before or after music lessons, the students and their parents can relax, have coffee, or go shopping inside the mall.

It’s the perfect way to spend the weekend!

We only have a few issues about this school and that includes the short opening hours. Time for on-site private learning will be really limited, especially if the teacher’s schedule doesn’t completely match yours.

It’ll be also a bit of a hassle since this school is more focused on younger students, which will require the assistance of most parents. That means if you’re a working parent, you’ll really have to make time later in the day to be with your child.

It might also be a bit concerning that the school’s schedule is from late in the afternoon until night time. 

Pros

  • Many available events
  • Wide variety of programs
  • Highly experienced instructors
  • Choice of more than one teacher
  • Online payment
  • Convenient location
  • Comfortable environment
  • Friendly staff

Cons

  • Short opening hours
  • More focused on young learners

Customer Reviews

Qualified music teachers

“This school only has qualified music teachers that have schooling in music.  Just because other stores have a music school doesn’t mean all the teachers are qualified to teach.  I’ve heard this music school pays there employees well and has a steady stream of students that keeps them busy.  I have no regrets trying to introduce my daughter to piano here.  I see lots of smiles when I go inside and a possitive environment.  She just has a diagnosis that makes it hard for her to sit for decent periods of time making it hard to learn.  When considering this I feel Rob taught her well and she actually has gotten partially through a bit of a music book.  Impressed really… knowing my child.  Her music grade in school went up as well.  I very much appreciate the help and positive environment Rob provided despite her lack of practicing.  Her understanding of music has definitely improved and I hope it helps persuade her to learn more musically in the future.” — Nicole Skillings

Truly amazing

“My daughter takes voice lessons here. She loves her teacher and is really eager to come every week. As a parent I love seeing my moody teenage flourish. She feels so comfortable with her instructor who is truly amazing. I am so thankful to have her at this school.” — Victoria Hale

6. JKW Vocal and Performing Arts Studio

JKW Vocal and Performing Arts Studio
SERVICEShttps://jkwmusicstudio.com/classes
WEBSITEhttps://jkwmusicstudio.com/
ADDRESSCanada
PRICES$75.00/hour
CONTACT DETAILSContact Form
OPERATING HOURS
CriteriaRatings
Qualification of instructors★★★★★ (5/5)
Flexibility with age groups and skill levels★★★★ (4/5)
Variety of lessons and programs★★★★☆ (4/5)
Program benefits★★★★ (5/5)
Availability★★★★ (5/5)

JKW Vocal and Performing Arts Studio is a facility where individuals are guided to cultivate the right attitude and technique for individuals who aspire to be involved in music and its profession. Founded and directed by Jessica Kos- Whicher, their studio has become a safe space that welcomes individuals of all races, genders, and gender identities and expressions.

Having trained specifically in both Opera and Musical Theatre, her approach and specialization mainly involve performance arts and help students cultivate and connect with their inner passion for music.

From basic breathing techniques to particular courses such as ear training and sight singing, her classes are available in various genres and can accommodate beginners and those who have an advanced skillset as well.

Though note that she only offers lessons to individuals 6 years old and above wherein they charge each lesson per hour which doesn’t include the application fee among other miscellaneous fees.

Nonetheless, with their well-equipped studio, comprehensive classes, and personalized and warm approach to teaching, we think that clients interested to take music lessons should consider checking them out.

Pros

  • Accommodates lessons of all levels
  • Equipped facilities
  • Diversely experienced professionals

Cons

  • Does not accommodate lessons for students 6 years old and below
  • Operating hours unavailable

Customer Reviews

Here are some reviews from their clients:

“”Our oldest daughter has been taking voice lessons with Jessica for the past two years and our youngest for the past year.  Both girls absolutely love Jessica and tell us that voice lessons are their favourite activity each week. The amount of growth and skill development we have seen in both girls has been astounding. In addition to quality lessons and teaching, Jessica is one of the most kind, loving, and compassionate people we have ever met.  You can see the joy she feels watching all of her students grow and perform.  Jessica is the type of teacher who celebrates all of her students’ successes both within the voice lessons and outside, fully supporting them in their other activities, and cheering them on. Her passion for music and her students is so evident.  We are so excited for Jessica and her upcoming expansion. We highly recommend her and know she will exceed your expectations. We are truly grateful for her teaching, her passion, and her character.”

“Jessica has mastered how to be truly present as a teacher. She blends expertise, sensitivity, instinct, compassion, humour–but mostly she is just extraordinarily gifted as a singer. It’s a beautiful thing when a career and a passion come together, Jessica is truly amazing.”

FAQs about Music Lessons in Winnipeg


Now that you’ve seen the best music schools in town, we hope we helped you in taking your first steps to fulfilling those rock star dreams!

If you are looking for more schools to focus on your guitar skills, look no further, for we have also listed the best places to take guitar lessons in Winnipeg.

Good luck, and we hope you have the best time exploring the musician within you!