MacPhail Center for Music

MacPhail Center for Music offers individual music lessons in 35+ instruments, voice, composition, and electronic music. It also offers group music classes, ensembles and choirs, Sing Play Learn for ages 6 weeks to 12 years, Suzuki for children ages 3–6, and music therapy. Additional options include Musical Bridges Instrument Sampler for ages 6–8, Beginning Ukulele Class for Children ages 6–8, and Musical World for ages 5–7.

Programs

• Individual Lessons — children, youth, and adult learners; all ages · start anytime throughout the year · Individual music lessons for all ages, skill levels, and goals. Available in 35+ instruments, voice, composition, and electronic music. Offered in person, online, and hybrid.
• Group Classes — all ages · Group music classes for all ages, interests, and experience levels. Beginning group classes are available for kids and adults.
• Ensembles & Choirs — all ages · Music performance opportunities in groups ranging from duos to orchestras for students of all levels and abilities.
• Sing Play Learn — early childhood; ages 6 weeks to 12 years · Award-winning early childhood music program designed to spark creativity, build musical skills, and nurture a lifelong love of learning.
• Suzuki — children ages 3–6 · Immersive, multi-instrument program based on the Suzuki method that nurtures confident, curious learners through music and parent partnership.
• Contemporary Music — not stated · Programs in jazz, pop/rock, music production, and songwriting, with lessons, ensembles, and group classes online or in-studio.
• MacPhail Music for Life™ — adults 55+ · Welcoming music classes and ensembles for adults 55+ that foster creativity, connection, and lifelong learning.
• Crescendo for Piano & Strings — not stated · Supports students’ musical growth by recognizing progress, setting skill benchmarks, and fostering well-rounded musicians at every stage.
• Music Therapy — no musical ability needed · Evidence-based music activities to support physical, emotional, cognitive, and social goals through personalized treatment.
• Musical Bridges Instrument Sampler (6-8yr) — 6-8 years · Children can try out multiple instruments to help them find a great fit.
• Beginning Ukulele Class for Children (ages 6-8) — 6-8 years · Explore the ukulele while building foundational music skills through songs, musical games, singing, and creative activities.
• Musical World (5-7 yr) — 5-7 years · Students explore African, Central American, Caribbean, Hawaiian, and South American cultures through songs, folk tales, visual art, and ethnic instruments.

At a glance

• Ages: 0–18 years old

About the provider

MacPhail Center for Music says it transforms lives and strengthens communities through the power of music. It is described as the nation’s largest community music school, with 200+ teaching artists, more than 15,000 students annually, and 130+ community partnership sites and 3 metro locations. It offers instruction in four locations, online, and through dozens of community and school partnerships.

Financial assistance is available. If tuition is a barrier, MacPhail encourages applicants to apply. Children ages 3–6 may also wish to explore the Suzuki program. Students and families enrolled in at least 5 hours of Individual Lessons, Music Therapy, or Suzuki Talent Education in the same semester are eligible for the Music+ discount.

What families say

“My daughter comes home from every lesson smiling and motivated to practice. The progress I’ve seen in my child is incredible.” — MacPhail Parent

“At 71 years old, I walked into my first piano class convinced music was not for me. Everything I know about music, I’ve learned at MacPhail.” — MacPhail Student

“MacPhail has become much more than a music school for our family — it has been a meaningful and important part of our lives for many years.” — MacPhail Parent

Last updated October 18, 2026.