Question 1

Do you offer in-home music lessons in Manhattan and Brooklyn?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide in-home music lessons throughout all Manhattan and Brooklyn neighborhoods. Our professional musician-teachers travel directly to your home, eliminating commute time and creating a comfortable learning environment. We serve the Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Chelsea, Williamsburg, Park Slope, Brooklyn Heights, and all other Manhattan and Brooklyn areas.

Question 2

How much do piano lessons cost in NYC?

Accepted Answer

Our piano lessons cost $60 for 30 minutes or $90 for 60 minutes for in-home instruction in Manhattan and Brooklyn (includes $10 travel fee). Studio lessons are $50 for 30 minutes or $80 for 60 minutes. We offer transparent pricing with no registration fees or hidden costs. Most piano students choose weekly 60-minute lessons for optimal progress.

Question 3

How much do guitar lessons cost in NYC?

Accepted Answer

Guitar lessons cost $60 for 30 minutes or $90 for 60 minutes for in-home instruction in Manhattan and Brooklyn (includes $10 travel fee). Studio lessons are $50 for 30 minutes or $80 for 60 minutes. We teach acoustic, electric, and classical guitar with no additional fees for different styles or equipment.

Question 4

What instruments do you teach in Manhattan and Brooklyn?

Accepted Answer

We teach piano, guitar (acoustic, electric, classical), saxophone, drums, bass, trumpet, clarinet, flute, voice/singing, violin, cello, and ukulele. All instruments are taught in your Manhattan or Brooklyn home by professional performing musicians. Piano and guitar are our most popular instruments with the widest teacher availability.

Question 5

Can complete beginners take piano lessons with no experience?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We specialize in teaching adult and child beginners with zero musical experience. Our piano teachers start with proper hand position, basic music reading, and simple songs you can play within 4-6 weeks. We provide patient, judgment-free instruction designed specifically for beginners. Many of our piano students started knowing nothing about music.

Question 6

Can adults learn guitar with no prior musical experience?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We teach many adult guitar beginners in their 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond who start with zero experience. You'll learn basic chords and simple songs within 4-8 weeks. Our teachers understand adult learning styles and design realistic practice schedules around busy professional lives. Age is not a barrier to learning guitar.

Question 7

How long does it take to learn piano as an adult beginner?

Accepted Answer

Most adult beginners can play simple songs within 4-6 weeks of starting piano lessons. Within 3-6 months with consistent practice (20-30 minutes, 4-5 times per week), you'll be playing recognizable pieces and reading music comfortably. Reaching intermediate level typically takes 1-2 years of regular lessons and practice. Progress depends on practice consistency more than age or natural talent.

Question 8

How long does it take to learn guitar as an adult beginner?

Accepted Answer

Adult guitar beginners can typically play simple songs with basic chords within 6-8 weeks. Within 3-4 months, most students are playing along with recordings and have a repertoire of 10-15 songs. Barre chords (a major milestone) usually come around 3-6 months. Reaching intermediate level takes 6-12 months with consistent weekly practice. Your fingertips will be sore initially but calluses develop within 2-4 weeks.

Question 9

What qualifications do your piano and guitar teachers have?

Accepted Answer

Our piano and guitar teachers are professional performing musicians, many with degrees from Juilliard, Manhattan School of Music, Berklee College of Music, and other top conservatories. They actively perform throughout NYC at venues including Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, and premier jazz clubs. All teachers have extensive teaching experience with both children and adults across all skill levels.

Question 10

Do you offer piano lessons for kids in Manhattan and Brooklyn?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We provide in-home piano lessons for children ages 5 and up throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn. Our teachers specialize in age-appropriate instruction, using engaging method books and incorporating music kids love. We offer bi-annual student recitals and can schedule sibling lessons back-to-back for family convenience. Piano is an excellent first instrument for children.

Question 11

Do you offer guitar lessons for kids in Manhattan and Brooklyn?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we teach guitar to children typically starting around age 6-7 (depending on hand size). Our guitar teachers work with kids using age-appropriate techniques, fun songs they recognize, and patient encouragement. We provide both acoustic and electric guitar instruction. For very young children, we may recommend starting with ukulele (4 strings, smaller size) before transitioning to guitar.

Question 12

What neighborhoods in Manhattan do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We provide in-home music lessons throughout all Manhattan neighborhoods including Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Midtown, Chelsea, Greenwich Village, East Village, Lower East Side, Tribeca, Financial District, Hell's Kitchen, Murray Hill, Gramercy, Harlem, Washington Heights, and all other Manhattan areas. Our teachers travel to your home for convenient, professional instruction.

Question 13

What neighborhoods in Brooklyn do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We offer in-home music lessons across all Brooklyn neighborhoods including Williamsburg, Greenpoint, Park Slope, Prospect Heights, Brooklyn Heights, Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill, Fort Greene, Clinton Hill, Bed-Stuy, Bushwick, DUMBO, Sunset Park, Bay Ridge, Flatbush, and all other Brooklyn areas. Our professional teachers come directly to your Brooklyn home.

Question 14

Why choose in-home music lessons instead of going to a music school?

Accepted Answer

In-home lessons eliminate 45-60 minutes of commute time per lesson, saving approximately 40 hours per year. You learn in a comfortable, familiar environment on your own instrument and can practice immediately after lessons. For Manhattan and Brooklyn residents dealing with subway commutes and traffic, in-home lessons provide maximum convenience without sacrificing quality. Our professional musician-teachers provide the same excellent instruction you'd receive at top music schools, but in your home.

Question 15

Do you offer flexible scheduling for working professionals?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer music lessons 7 days a week including evenings (6pm, 7pm, 8pm starts) and weekends to accommodate busy professional schedules. Many of our Manhattan and Brooklyn students are working professionals who take lessons after work or on weekends. We understand work travel and demanding careers—our cancellation policy allows reasonable flexibility when schedule conflicts arise.

Question 16

Can I learn piano and guitar at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We support multi-instrument learning. Many students take weekly piano lessons and weekly guitar lessons, with teachers coordinating curriculum. Piano provides excellent music theory foundation while guitar offers portability and songwriting capabilities. Learning both instruments creates well-rounded musicianship, though progress on each will be somewhat slower than single-instrument focus. We can schedule lessons on different days for maximum flexibility.

Question 17

What styles of piano do you teach?

Accepted Answer

Our piano teachers teach classical, jazz, pop, rock, musical theater, contemporary, and blues styles. We personalize curriculum to match your musical interests—whether you want to play Chopin, jazz standards, Billy Joel, or contemporary pop music. Many students explore multiple styles. Piano is incredibly versatile across all musical genres.

Question 18

What styles of guitar do you teach?

Accepted Answer

We teach rock, pop, jazz, blues, classical, fingerstyle, folk, country, and funk guitar. Our teachers customize lessons to your interests—whether you want to play acoustic singer-songwriter music, electric rock solos, jazz improvisation, or classical guitar repertoire. Both acoustic and electric guitar instruction available.

Question 19

Do I need to own a piano or keyboard before starting lessons?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you'll need a piano or keyboard to practice on between lessons. For beginners, a full-size digital keyboard with 88 weighted keys works well and costs $300-800 for quality models. Acoustic pianos are wonderful but not required to start. We can provide specific keyboard recommendations based on your budget and living situation. Most Manhattan and Brooklyn apartments accommodate digital pianos with headphone capability.

Question 20

Do I need to own a guitar before starting lessons?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you'll need your own guitar to practice on. For adult beginners, we recommend starting with an acoustic guitar ($150-400 for quality beginner models) or electric guitar ($200-500 plus small amp). Classical guitars work well for those interested in classical style or children with small hands. We can recommend specific guitars based on your musical interests, budget, and hand size.

Question 21

Do you offer trial lessons before committing?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer free trial lessons for all instruments including piano and guitar. During your trial, you'll meet your teacher, discuss your goals, assess your current level (if you have experience), and see if our approach is right for you. There's no obligation to continue after the trial—it's a no-pressure opportunity to experience our teaching quality and decide if lessons fit your life.

Question 22

What's the difference between 30-minute and 60-minute lessons?

Accepted Answer

30-minute lessons work well for young children (ages 5-8), very busy adults with limited time, or students just starting out. 60-minute lessons are recommended for ages 9+ and serious students—they allow time for warm-up, technique work, repertoire, theory, and questions. Most adult piano and guitar students choose 60-minute weekly lessons for substantial progress. We can help you determine the right length during your trial lesson.

Question 23

How does your cooperative teacher pay model work?

Accepted Answer

Kalman Music operates as a musician-led cooperative where teachers earn 87% of tuition, compared to 15-25% at traditional music schools. This fair pay model means our teachers are financially stable, experienced professionals who stay with us long-term rather than burning out or leaving. Students benefit from working with the same excellent teacher for years, building deep musical relationships and consistent progress.

Question 24

Do you offer student recitals or performance opportunities?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We host bi-annual student recitals (twice per year) where students of all ages and levels can perform in a supportive, encouraging environment. Recitals are optional but provide valuable performance experience, motivation for practice, and community connection with fellow students. We also help students prepare for school performances, auditions, and other musical opportunities.

Question 25

What if I'm too old to learn piano or guitar?

Accepted Answer

You're never too old! We teach adult beginners in their 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond. While children may develop muscle memory slightly faster, adults have advantages including clear motivation, better focus, deeper musical appreciation, and patience for the learning process. Age affects learning speed far less than practice consistency and quality instruction. Many of our most successful students started as older adults.

Question 26

Can I learn music if I can't read music notation?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Many students start with zero music reading ability. We teach reading skills progressively alongside playing. For some instruments and styles (guitar with tablature, playing by ear, chord-based accompaniment), reading traditional notation is helpful but not absolutely required. Piano students typically learn to read music as it significantly aids learning, but we start with basics and build gradually. Reading music is a learnable skill, not a prerequisite.

Question 27

How much should I practice between piano lessons?

Accepted Answer

For steady progress, we recommend 20-30 minutes of practice, 4-6 times per week for adult students. Children may practice 10-15 minutes daily. More ambitious students might practice 45-60 minutes daily. Even 15 minutes of focused practice several times weekly produces meaningful progress. Consistency matters more than duration—four 20-minute sessions beat one 80-minute marathon. We design realistic practice assignments based on your schedule and goals.

Question 28

How much should I practice between guitar lessons?

Accepted Answer

We recommend 20-30 minutes of practice, 4-6 times per week for consistent guitar progress. Beginners might practice 10-15 minutes daily while building finger strength and calluses. More serious students may practice 45-60 minutes daily. Your fingertips will be sore initially, so shorter frequent sessions work better than long infrequent ones. Practice consistency matters more than duration for developing muscle memory and technique.

Question 29

Do you teach jazz piano in Manhattan and Brooklyn?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We have professional jazz pianists who teach jazz piano including improvisation, chord voicings, comping, jazz standards, and jazz theory. Our jazz piano teachers are active performers at NYC jazz venues and bring real-world jazz experience to lessons. Whether you're interested in bebop, modal jazz, or contemporary styles, we provide authentic jazz education from musicians who live it professionally.

Question 30

Do you teach classical piano in Manhattan and Brooklyn?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we teach classical piano with teachers trained at top conservatories including Juilliard and Manhattan School of Music. We teach proper classical technique, classical repertoire from Bach to contemporary composers, music theory, and performance interpretation. Whether you're a beginner learning simple classical pieces or an advanced student preparing for conservatory auditions, we provide professional classical piano instruction.

Question 31

Can you help prepare my child for piano auditions?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer specialized audition preparation for conservatory programs (Juilliard Pre-College, Manhattan School of Music Precollege), college music programs, All-State, and competitions. Our teachers help with repertoire selection, technical refinement, performance practice, mock auditions, and managing performance anxiety. Many of our students have been accepted into top conservatory programs with our preparation support.

Question 32

Do you offer lessons for neurodivergent students with ADHD or autism?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We provide neurodivergent-friendly music lessons accommodating ADHD, autism, sensory processing differences, and other learning differences. Our teachers use flexible teaching methods, offer movement breaks, incorporate visual aids, and adapt to individual sensory needs. In-home lessons reduce anxiety by eliminating unfamiliar environments. We celebrate how each brain works rather than forcing neurotypical approaches.

Question 33

What's the best age for kids to start piano lessons?

Accepted Answer

Most children are ready for piano lessons around age 5-6, though it depends on the individual child's focus and hand size. Some motivated 4-year-olds can start, while others benefit from waiting until age 7. Piano is an excellent first instrument for children because the visual keyboard layout makes music theory intuitive and pressing keys produces immediate sound. We offer age-appropriate instruction for children as young as 5.

Question 34

What's the best age for kids to start guitar lessons?

Accepted Answer

Children can typically start guitar lessons around age 6-8, depending on hand size and finger strength. Younger children (ages 4-6) may find ukulele easier as a starting instrument before transitioning to guitar. We assess hand size and strength during trial lessons to ensure your child can press strings comfortably. For very young beginners, 3/4 size guitars are available to accommodate smaller hands.

Your Musical Journey Starts Here

Piano

Guitar

Saxophone

Trumpet

Flute

Clarinet

Bass

Drums

Theory & Composition

Voice

Ukulele

Music is OurUniversal Language

Why Choose Kalman?

In-Home Convenience, Music School Experience

Fair Pay, Supporting Live Music

Real-World Musical Expertise

How Our Lessons Work

Individual Goal-Setting

Customized Repertoire

Integrated Musicianship

Clear Practice Guidance

Personalized Materials

Flexible Pacing

Fair Wages & Lower Costs

Teachers Earn 2-4× More

Students Pay Less

Active Performing Musicians

Faster Student Progress

Lower Teacher Turnover

Sustainable Music Ecosystem

Meet Our Faculty

Tal Kalman

Joey Curreri

Neal Perrine

Ethan Cohn

Gabriel Schillinger-Hyman

Miles Mindlin

Markiian Krysa

Sasha Ripley

B.M. Angelina Kolobukhova

Yuval Amihai

Jackson Potter

Alexandra Ridout

Peru Eizagirre

Alden Hellmuth

What Our StudentsAre Saying

Sarah, 28

Michael, 34

Emily, 22

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Universal Language