Business Details
21 Years
experience
Your Choice of Music Lessons in Anchorage, AK
Founded in 2005, Alaska School of Music has been dedicated to making music education accessible and enjoyable for students of all ages. Our approach focuses on meeting each student at their individual level of ability and interest, emphasizing personalized learning through their favorite songs and styles. With over 500 students enrolled, we offer instruction in piano, guitar, voice, and more than a dozen other instruments. Our team of passionate instructors includes award-winning educators and professional musicians, many of whom have decades of teaching experience. We prioritize creating a fun, non-judgmental environment where students develop musical skills at their own pace.The studio maintains flexible scheduling with both in-person lessons at our Anchorage and Eagle River locations, as well as online instruction options. Our teachers specialize in adapting to different learning styles, whether working with young beginners or adults returning to music later in life. The school has cultivated strong relationships with local charter school organizations as an approved vendor for educational services. We maintain a transparent payment system with monthly billing and offer guidance for students selecting appropriate instruments. Our track record includes helping numerous students progress from casual learners to professional musicians.
Services
Piano
Guitar
Voice
Ukulele
Bass
Violin
Viola
Flute
Recorder
Clarinet
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in personalized music instruction
- Our teachers specialize in adapting to different learning styles and ages
- We offer flexible scheduling with both in-person and online lessons
- Our instructors include award-winning educators and professional musicians
- We maintain transparent payment policies with monthly billing options
What people say
Great teachers
Amazing program
Top-notch education
Awesome teachers
Loves her lessons
Services
Piano Lessons
Our piano lessons cater to all skill levels from beginners to advanced players. Instructors customize sessions based on individual interests and abilities, using students' favorite songs as learning tools. The curriculum emphasizes enjoyment while developing technical proficiency and musical understanding.
Guitar Lessons
Offering instruction in electric and acoustic guitar styles, our lessons accommodate various musical preferences from rock to classical. Teachers help students develop proper technique while learning songs that match their interests. Lessons include guidance on instrument selection and maintenance.
Voice Lessons
Personalized vocal instruction focuses on technique development, breath control, and performance skills. Lessons adapt to students' musical preferences while addressing proper vocal health and range expansion. Available for all age groups and experience levels.
Violin Lessons
Our violin program teaches both classical and contemporary styles including bluegrass and folk. Instructors use a combination of Suzuki method and modern techniques to develop proper posture and bowing techniques while maintaining student engagement through preferred musical styles.
Ukulele & Bass
Lessons cover fundamental techniques for both ukulele and bass guitar. Students learn chord progressions, fingerpicking patterns, and rhythmic foundations. Instructors emphasize practical application through popular songs while developing essential musical skills applicable to other instruments.
People
David McCormick
Owner
With over 20 years of teaching experience, David founded the school to make music education accessible and enjoyable. He specializes in creating personalized learning experiences that focus on students' interests while developing fundamental skills.
Wayne Tester
Instructor
A Nashville transplant with music education experience, Wayne teaches piano, songwriting, and music production. He brings industry expertise from his career as an award-winning songwriter to create practical, engaging lessons for students.
Brett Kuiper
Music Educator
With formal music education and symphony experience, Brett teaches violin and piano while incorporating his public school teaching background. He connects well with students of all ages, including his own daughters.
Esther Tester
Piano Instructor
Returning to Alaska after 20 years of teaching, Esther brings extensive piano and voice instruction experience. She has published over 600 original songs, adding real-world perspective to her teaching approach.
Brad Hamilton
Multi-Instrumentalist
Combining formal music education with Anchorage School District teaching experience, Brad instructs guitar, piano, and woodwinds. His diverse skill set allows him to connect with students across multiple instrument families.
Questions
What are the costs and payment policies?
Lessons cost $44 for a half-hour session with monthly billing. Payments process on the 24th of the preceding month with cancellation options through the 15th.
Do you work with charter schools?
Yes, we partner with all major local charter school organizations including Family Partnership, IDEA, and Denali Peak.
When is my child ready for lessons?
Children can start piano at 4, guitar and violin around 6. We offer month-to-month enrollment for trial periods.
Is it too late for adults to learn?
Not at all. Adults often progress faster due to better coordination and motivation, with students successfully learning into their 70s.
What instrument should I start with?
Recorder, ukulele, or digital keyboard are easiest for beginners. Choose based on personal musical interests and preferences.
Do you offer online lessons?
Yes, we provide flexible instruction options including both in-person studio sessions and virtual online lessons.
