Acoustic Guitar Program

Frequently Asked Questions

Thank you for your interest in our Acoustic Guitar Program at Airdrie Music Lessons!

Our guitar program is designed to help students develop strong musical foundations while building confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of music. Students learn in a supportive group environment where they can develop their skills, make friendships, and enjoy the process of becoming musicians.

Below are answers to some of the most common questions about our Acoustic Guitar Program.

1. What Can Guitar Students Expect?

AML students begin by learning Acoustic Rhythm Guitar to establish a strong musical foundation.

Acoustic guitar is one of the most versatile instruments and is a skill students can enjoy throughout their lives—whether playing at family gatherings, campfire sing-alongs, church services, coffee houses, jam sessions, or eventually in a rock band.

Students develop skills including:

• Chord playing
• Strumming techniques
• Rhythm
• Music reading
• Ear training
• Playing with others
• Musical confidence

2. How Long Are Each of the Lessons?

Classes are 60 minutes each week, providing students with twice the instructional time of traditional 30-minute lessons.

The longer class format allows students more time to learn new skills, practice together, receive feedback, and develop confidence in a supportive group environment.

3. How Much Does the Program Cost?

Our students enrol for the full academic year (September through June).

• Annual Tuition: $1,525
• Monthly Payment Plan: 10 convenient payments of $149 per month
• Tuition is processed through our secure pre-authorized monthly payment system.

4. Can I Enrol During the School Year?

Yes!

While most students enrol at the beginning of the academic year to secure their spot, we do welcome new students throughout the year whenever space is available.

If a class is full, students can be added to our waiting list, and once enough students are ready, we will create additional classes.

5. Do You Only Offer Group Lessons?

No!

AML offers both small group lessons and private lessons.

However, experience has shown that many students learn faster and enjoy the process more in a small group environment. Learning alongside other musicians creates motivation, accountability, teamwork, and friendships.

This learning format is especially beneficial for students who may experience shyness or nervousness, as it helps them build confidence, courage, and a positive sense of belonging.

6. Should I Choose Group or Private Lessons?

Most students thrive in our small group classes.

Private lessons may be recommended for students who:

• Have specific learning needs
• Require a customized learning approach

Our team will help guide families toward the best option for each student.

7. How Many Teachers Are There Per Class?

Classes are intentionally kept small, usually with 5–8 students.

Our classes have both a Lead Teacher and an Assistant Music Teacher, allowing students to benefit from the energy of learning with others while still receiving individual attention when needed.

Our teachers are highly experienced and knowledgeable, bringing years of teaching experience and practical strategies to help students overcome challenges and continue progressing.

AML also has dedicated support staff who allow teachers to focus on curriculum, students, and families.

8. Do AML Students Learn Faster Than in Traditional Lessons?

Yes!

The AML program is based on years of classroom experience and draws from effective approaches in music education, psychology, and learning science.

Students benefit from:

• Longer weekly classes
• Small group instruction
• Hands-on learning
• Practice accountability
• Positive peer support
• Performance opportunities

Students often practice more because they are connected to their classmates and motivated by their goals. When students enjoy the process and feel part of a team, they learn more effectively.

9. Do AML Lessons Help Students Develop Non-Musical Strengths?

Absolutely.

Music is the vehicle we use to help students develop important life skills, including:

• Confidence
• Courage
• Focus
• Patience
• Perseverance
• Listening skills
• Teamwork
• Creativity
• Social skills

Connecting with others who share an interest in music has helped many students grow in ways we could not have imagined.

At AML, we believe we are developing more than musicians—we are helping students become confident, capable individuals.

10. What Is the Game Room?

Our Downtown Airdrie location features a dedicated Game Room designed for fun, friendship, and community.

Students can enjoy activities such as:

• Air hockey
• Foosball
• Board games
• Xbox
• Other games and activities

The Game Room is open during class hours.

Our downtown studio is also used for special events, including movie nights, Professional Development Day programs, and summer camps.

Many students have developed friendships through Airdrie Music Lessons that extend beyond their music lessons.

11. Will Students Have Opportunities to Perform?

Yes!

Performance is an exciting and important part of the AML experience.

Students participate in our Grand Student Concerts each January and June, as well as smaller in-class performances and community events throughout the year.

Performing helps students:

• Build confidence
• Develop stage presence
• Set meaningful goals
• Celebrate their accomplishments with family and friends

12. Are Learning Materials Included?

Yes!

Students receive a variety of learning materials, including:

• 3-ring binder
• Sheet music
• Goal sheets
• Practice charts
• Weekly practice videos

Students receive a private video link so they can review practice materials at home as often as they need.

Students will need:

• Acoustic guitar
• Capo
• Tuner
• Guitar picks

We can provide recommendations and a detailed shopping list. Most students can purchase everything they need for under $200.

13. Where Are Lessons Held?

All Acoustic Guitar classes are held at our Downtown Airdrie location.

Our downtown school is home to many of our programs, including:

• Acoustic Guitar
• Piano
• Singing
• Ukulele
• Fine Art
• Junior Music Explorers
• Drums
• Drama

We have created a welcoming learning environment where students can develop their musical skills while becoming part of the AML community.

14. Are There Opportunities to Grow at AML?

Yes!

The Acoustic Guitar Program is the beginning of a lifelong musical journey.

Once students have learned the guitar fundamentals, they may continue into:

• Higher levels of Acoustic Guitar
• Electric Guitar
• Rock Band

Airdrie Music Lessons also offers Piano, Singing, Drum, Ukulele, Fine Art, and Rock Band programs from beginner to advanced levels. Many students begin with one program and later add another area of interest as their skills and confidence grow.

AML also provides volunteer opportunities for students to learn about teaching, concert production, recording technology, and other aspects of the music industry. Our Teacher Training Program has helped many students become successful Assistant Music Teachers.

We Would Love to Welcome You to AML!

Thank you for considering Airdrie Music Lessons for your musical journey.

If you have any questions or would like more information about our Acoustic Guitar Program or registration, please contact us. We look forward to helping you discover the joy of making music!