One of my team members took some classes at the Vesper School of Music and loved how each lesson was tailored to her style and interests. Since she was really into ballad music, her lessons included listening to ballads to help her grasp the techniques more effectively.

All the instructors are professional musicians, so she not only learned techniques but also gained valuable insights into the music industry!

While she focused on vocal lessons, Vesper offers a variety of instruments to explore, including guitar and piano.

Although our researcher still couldn’t try it, Vesper hosts events like an annual performance at the Portland Art Museum. These provide students with a unique opportunity to showcase their talents.

However, it’s worth noting that they have some strict policies that may not offer much flexibility. For example, their 30-day cancellation policy can be challenging for those needing more leeway in their schedules.

Lydia is wonderful. Highly recommend!

“Vesper School of Music has been the best introduction to music/piano for our son.  The teachers are excellent with all skill levels including beginners and they offer two recitals a year!   I also took piano for 9 years as a child and recently decided to resume lessons and it has been a great experience for me.  Lydia is absolutely wonderful. Highly recommend!”

Claire Noone, Google review

The school has been flexible with my schedule and very communicative

“I decided to take up piano as a 35-year-old and found Vesper school to be the perfect fit!! It’s been a year and I’ve loved working with my teacher Brian (and other teachers when I needed to change a day/time), have been able to focus on what I wanted to learn and grow as a player!! The school has been flexible with my schedule and very communicative. It’s truly been an enriching experience!”

Molly Jennings, Google review

What sets School of Rock apart from other music lessons is its focus on performance-based learning. Instead of just sitting around for solo lessons, one of our researchers got to play in bands and perform live, which made the whole experience way more fun.

At first, she was a bit nervous about group practices and jamming with others, but it really helped her learn teamwork and stage presence—such a cool way to build confidence!

There are many instruments and musical styles to choose from, such as guitar, drums, and keyboards, so there’s definitely something for everyone.

What got our researcher really excited was the curriculum featuring songs from rock legends, which keeps things fresh and engaging. Just a heads-up, though: the lessons can be a bit pricier than some other options.

The instructors are very caring and perceptive

“Our 1st grader has started here and she loves it.  The instructors are very caring and perceptive, and they give great feedback after every lesson.  Front desk/administrative staff are very responsive and great to work with around scheduling.”

Anand Shah, Google review

My daughter developed an even deeper level of music appreciation

“My daughter had a great time at camp.  She had fun, she said the teachers were kind and encouraging, and she developed an even deeper level of music appreciation that she had before going to camp.”

Ruth Ellen King, Google review

When one of our researchers couldn’t make it to an in-person class at Eliason School of Music, they offered online options, which was a great alternative for those with busy schedules. 

Our researcher also felt totally welcome signing up as an adult, no matter his experience level. This inclusive atmosphere really makes a difference.

He was also surprised that Eliason has a unique teaching method, which blends learning by ear with traditional note reading and music theory. Now, he can identify a note just by hearing it!

Another standout feature is their free recitals. These events allow students to perform and showcase what they’ve learned in a supportive environment. This not only boosts confidence but also fosters a strong sense of community among everyone involved.

On the downside, it’s worth mentioning that the school doesn’t have a centralized admin system. This can make things like billing changes or lesson cancellations a bit tricky, which might be inconvenient for parents managing their kids’ music education. 

The teachers have always been welcoming

“I’ve taken lessons at Eliason for around a decade – both piano and cello. The teachers have always been welcoming, and have helped me develop my skills while also leaving room for interpretation. The recitals are a good opportunity for students to practice performance and share what they’ve been working on with their families.”

Victoria Jackson, Google review

If you want a consistent, competent, and enjoyable experience, I definitely recommend them

“With no prior violin experience, I started as an adult learner with Brian a few years ago. It was everything I was hoping to find! The learning method is effective, and the teachers are knowledgeable not only at music, but at teaching as well. If you want a consistent, competent, and enjoyable experience, I definitely recommend them.”

Karyn Guido, Google review

If you’re into playing in a band, Backbeat Music Academy has you covered with rock and jazz bands. They also offer fun programs like the Try Everything bands, where you can explore different instruments all in one session. 

One of our researchers initially jumped into group voice lessons and found the vibe great for anyone looking for that sense of community. The instructors really focus on personalized teaching, even in a group setting.

However, she eventually preferred the one-on-one lessons, which worked better for her learning style. In those sessions, she loved how Backbeat emphasizes good posture, builds confidence, and encourages embracing mistakes as part of the journey.

On the flip side, one parent we chatted with mentioned some hiccups with communication and scheduling. They expressed frustration over their instructor being hard to reach at times.

Backbeat is a great space if you want to have fun awhile you learn

“John is a great guy! He loves music and he makes you feel like you are the most talented musician, even when you barely know a note yet. He encourages you to be the best you could possibly think you could, by first believing in your potential of growing. Backbeat is a great space if you want to have fun awhile you learn! You are not stuck in just one instrument and you have freedom to be you.”

Andressa Lima, Google review

Passionate and knowledgable instructors

“I appreciate Backbeat’s passion for striving for their students, specifically for pouring their knowledge and support into my best friend’s life! She loves music, and they are providing her with a space where she can reach the music dreams/goals she always had! Thank you, Backbeat Academy”

Nina Aguirre, Google review

At Yamhill, you can choose between private lessons or joining in on group activities. It really makes it easy to find a style that suits you. 

The community aspect is really special too! When we visited, we chatted with some students who couldn’t stop raving about their workshops and recitals.

They shared that these events gave them a chance to connect with one another and bond over their love for music. It’s a fantastic way to make friends with similar interests.

We also spoke with the instructors and loved how they tailor lessons to fit each student’s goals—even their musical tastes. For instance, one student who listens to a lot of jazz has lessons that incorporate jazz concepts, making each session even more engaging.

However, some students have also mentioned that their experiences can vary depending on the instructor. Since the studio operates on a decentralized model, inconsistent teaching styles and lesson quality can impact how students learn.

I found Yamhill Music School online and really glad that I did

“Din is a wonderful teacher and musician. A lifelong dream of mine was to go back to playing violin as an adult. I found Yamhill Music School online and really glad that I did. Din is patient, skilled as a teacher, and is a many instruments musician. I have been able to jump back into playing and build a good foundation to progress beyond where I was as a junior high school orchestra player. Very different to be in a private lesson with a musician and learning very useful insights and skill building in addition to the musical side of playing an instrument.”

Grace Henricks, Google review

I can now play a few songs and read music

“In just a short time Din patiently took me from a middle-aged person who had never touched a piano or read a single note of music to someone who enjoys sitting down at the piano almost daily. Thanks to Din’s expert guidance and kind, patient manner I can play a few songs and read music a little bit. There’s more work to do, but I’m very grateful for his help getting me started on my piano journey.”

Neal Corl, Google review