Best Online Music Lessons For Kids | Top Picks
Online music lessons for kids make it easy to learn an instrument from home, whether through self-paced courses or live instruction.
With so many options available, finding the right program can feel overwhelming, but we’ve explored some of the best to help you decide.
When we were searching for a homeschool music curriculum, I wanted something flexible, engaging, and effective.
Not only did my son develop his musical skills, but I also noticed improvements in his focus and overall learning.
Whether your child is just starting or looking to refine their skills, these online music lessons offer a convenient and affordable way to learn.
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Are Virtual Music Lessons Effective for Kids?
Yes! With so many experienced teachers offering online music lessons for kids, learning an instrument from home is easier than ever.
Whether through interactive live classes or structured self-paced programs, kids can develop musical skills without needing in-person instruction.
For those interested in playing professionally or joining a band, in-person lessons may be necessary at some point.
But for most children, online music lessons provide a flexible, engaging, and affordable way to start learning.
Live lessons offer real-time feedback, while self-paced courses require discipline but allow kids to progress at their own speed. The best choice depends on your child’s learning style and goals.
If you’re looking for structured lessons, I highly recommend Music In Our Homeschool as a fantastic starting point.
Best Online Piano Lessons for Kids
Hoffman Academy, in my opinion, is the best online piano lessons for kids. This was the first online piano program we tried, and it’s still my top recommendation.
The free version includes 300+ step-by-step video lessons, making it perfect for beginners. If your child wants extra practice, the premium version adds interactive songs and music theory worksheets.
Why we love it: It’s engaging, easy to follow, and completely free to start! You can also use promo code LEARN for 10% off if you upgrade.
Best Online Guitar Lessons for Kids
Guitar was a tougher instrument to teach at home, but these programs made a big difference:
Kids Guitar Zone (Free) – A completely free website that teaches the basics step by step. It’s simple but effective for younger kids who are just starting out.
Outschool guitar tutors (Paid) – If your child prefers live instruction, Outschool offers private and group lessons with experienced teachers. We found this helpful when my son needed extra guidance beyond video tutorials.
Kids Guitar Dojo (Paid) – An interactive, activity-based curriculum that keeps kids engaged while learning proper technique.
Gentle Guitar (Paid) – Live one-on-one lessons with a specialist teacher—great for kids who need structure and accountability.
If your child prefers something a little louder, drums are a fantastic option! Even without a full drum kit, there are great ways to start learning rhythm online.
Best Online Drum Lessons for Kids
Drums were a surprise favorite in our home! Even without a full drum kit, my son loved practicing rhythm exercises online.
My Music Workshop (Free) – This YouTube channel has a great beginner-friendly approach, covering drum basics in six free lessons.
Drumeo (Paid) – An interactive platform that makes drumming fun with engaging videos and guided lessons. You get the first lesson free!
Outschool drum tutors (Paid) – Live virtual classes for all skill levels, from complete beginners to more advanced drummers.
Sage music (Paid) – A structured approach with customized online lessons designed for steady progress.
Best Online Violin Lessons for Kids
Violin can be tricky to learn without in-person feedback, but these online options work surprisingly well:
Learn music with Meg (Free) – A fantastic YouTube channel that introduces violin basics in a fun and easy way.
Outschool violin classes (Paid) – Tons of live online violin tutors, offering one-time workshops, ongoing lessons, and private coaching.
Fiddlerman (Free for Older Kids & Adults) – Originally designed for adults, but older kids can still benefit from these free beginner violin lessons.
What’s the Best Age for Kids to Start Music Lessons?
Kids can start exploring music from a young age, but structured music lessons online typically work best between ages 4 and 9.
- Toddlers (1-3 years old): Simple percussion instruments like shakers or tambourines introduce rhythm in a fun, hands-on way.
- Preschool & Early Elementary (4-7 years old): The piano, ukulele, and recorder are great beginner-friendly instruments that help develop coordination and musical understanding.
- Upper Elementary & Middle School (8+ years old): Instruments like the violin, drums, and guitar require more dexterity and patience, making them a great fit for older children.
No matter when they start, the most important thing is finding an instrument that excites them and keeps them motivated to learn!
Which Online Music Lessons Are Best for Your Child?
Every child learns differently. If your kid thrives with self-paced lessons, Hoffman Academy and Kids Guitar Zone are great places to start.
If they need live instruction, Outschool or Gentle Guitar provide structured guidance.
What worked best for us was a mix of free and paid lessons—starting with free resources and adding live classes when extra help was needed.
No matter which path you choose, online music lessons can be a fun, affordable, and effective way to help your child learn an instrument.
Last Updated on 5 March 2025 by Clare Brown