Instruction

How to Get Started

Your needs and goals come first. Whether you’re a performing musician or have never picked up an instrument, our teachers will teach you in the way you learn best. They cover a wide range of classic and contemporary styles.

Getting started is easy.

  1. What type of music instruction are you looking for?
  2. See our fees.
  3. Get to know our teachers.
  4. Have questions? Contact us.
  5. Sign Up!

Instruments & Voice A-Z

Private Lessons

Expert teachers. Personalized, affordable lessons.

Private Lessons Photo

Our teachers are accomplished musicians and great listeners. They’ll start where you’re at, whether you’re a beginner or already performing onstage. They’ll help you set goals, motivate you through great instruction, and teach you in the style you want to learn.


Make the most of your private lessons.

  • Regular weekly lessons with homework assignments reinforced by daily practice are routines that allow you to make the most progress;
  • Thirty minutes or more of practice every day is good, but when you're busy, try for 15-20 minutes. Doing something each day, even for a short time, helps you progress; and
  • Work with your teacher to set your goals and monitor progress toward those goals monthly.

Getting set up.

  • Let us know your instrument and level of experience.
  • For children's programs, we also need to know the age of your child.
  • We’ll give you a quick interview to help you find the teacher who’s the best fit. When you’re ready, call us at 612-333-6651.
  • You’ll discuss your goals and schedule with the teacher before you start.
  • You can take lessons at the school of at your home (at a higher cost). Check out our fees.
  • Once you’re comfortable that you have the right teacher and have settled on your lesson time, it’s time to register and pay.
  • Please visit our Policies page for more information on time limits for using WBSM lessons and canceling, or rescheduling lessons.

Taking a trial lesson.

You can buy a single trial lesson. If you then decide to sign up for a lesson package, we will apply the payment for that first lesson to the cost of the larger package.

We work with students on tight budgets.

Learn about our payment plans and financial aid.

Children's Programs

Choose the program that’s best for your child.

Children's Program

Our children's programs include private lessons, classes for kids, regular classes, ensembles and summer camp.

Need more help? Contact Us

Want to get started? Register now.

Benefits of music education:
  • Better intellectual development.
  • Higher academic achievement.
  • More self-confidence.
  • Resistance to chemical abuse.

Private lessons for kids and teens.

All our teachers are experienced in showing young students how to have fun making music and how to develop sound musical habits.

Often kids are ready to start learning about music when they show interest in learning to play or sing. Depending on the instrument, very young children may have physical and learning limitations, so speak to our director for advice.

Regular classes for more experienced kids and teens.

Our classes are geared towards adults; however teenagers and younger students can keep up if they have some musical background. See our complete Current Class Schedule.

Ensemble fun for young musicians.

Ensemble experience will help students junior high age or older learn how to play better with others, hone their listening and practice skills, gain valuable performing experience, and learn new songs. Learn more about Ensembles.

Group Classes & Schedule

Spring 2012 Classes

Classes start Apr 7. Classes typically include six 90 minute sessions and cost $127 total unless otherwise noted. Classes hold 3-12 students and are subject to class size requirements. Download a PDF of the schedule or Register now.

  • Beginning Violin Class for Adults

    Instructor: Kale Baglyos Reed
    Have you ever wondered what it’s like to express yourself on a string instrument? Do you wish you would have kept playing when you were young? This group class will offer training in the specific skill set needed to play with rich tone, accurate pitch, and comprehension of basic musical theory. We will also work on phrasing and breathing musically, and having poise in a performance setting. Playing in a group setting is a great way to learn, challenge yourself, and absorb music more fully. No instrument will be needed for the first class, and rental/purchase information will be discussed. Much of the curriculum will be based on Suzuki Violin Book 1, so purchase of the book and accompanying CD is required. 
    Wednesdays, 5-6:30 pm, Apr 11 - May 16

  • Building Vocal Confidence I: Performance Basics

    Instructor: Bobbi Miller
    Love to sing, but afraid to do it in public? Learn all the basics of good vocal technique, increase your power and range, and find “your own voice”. The class will focus on:
    • Vocal exercises
    • Proper body alignment
    • Breath control
    There will be a performance for your peers.
    Tuesdays, 8-9:30 pm, Apr 10 - May 15

  • Intro to Music Theory

    Instructor: Stephen Dewey
    Come learn how music works and what all the jots and squiggles on the page really mean! This course covers notation, time signatures, dynamics, and articulation. Material covered is useful to singers, or instrumentalist, whether you are just beginning, or want to refresh your understanding. We will use ESSENTIALS OF MUSIC THEORY, by Andrew Surnami, et al, as the primary textbook for the course. The book costs $12.95 and is available online at www.Alfred.com or Groth Music www.grothmusic.com
    Mondays, 7:30-9 pm, Apr 9 - May 14

  • Introduction to Balkan Folk Music

    Instructor: Nickolai Kolarov
    Explore Balkan (Bulgarian, Macedonian, Romanian and Gypsy) rhythms and melodies, including regular and irregular meters, two-part singing, and traditional and oriental scales. Students will:
    • Develop an appreciation for the rich and varied tradition of Balkan music.
    • Learn folk songs and dances.
    • Enhance their understanding of the culture of the region.
    Familiarity with music notation is helpful but not required.
    Wednesdays, 7-8:30 pm, Apr 11 - May 16

  • Introduction to Guitar

    Instructor: Dale Dahlquist
    For beginners who are looking for a supportive learning environment. This class will teach students:
    • Basic guitar chords in several common keys
    • A few simple tunes
    • Proper technique
    • Simple flatpicking and fingerpicking patterns
    • Basic theory
    Wednesdays, 6:30-8 pm, Apr 11 - May 16

  • The Joy of Sight Singing

    Instructor: Paul Renz
    Improve your aural skills and build sight-reading chops. Includes:
    • Melodic and rhythmic dictation
    • Identification of intervals and triads
    • Basic rhythms
    • Melodic patterns Common cadences
    • Lots of sight-singing
    You don't need a “good” voice to enroll. Students will be required to pay for some materials.
    Saturdays, Time TBD, Apr 7 - May 12

  • Introduction to African Guitar

    Instructor: Siama Matuzungidi
    This class will explore rhythmic patterns and guitar riffs common to Soukous and High Life styles of music.
    • Soukous is an up-tempo music, also called African Rumba, similar to Soca and Calypso from the Caribbean.
    • High Life is a West African music style.
    Teacher demonstrations, listening to recordings, some history and discussions of popular African musicians in this style are elements of the class. Familiarity with basic chords and notes will be helpful to students.
    Wednesdays, 6:30-8 pm, Apr 11 - May 16

  • Latin American Hand Drumming

    Instructor: Kale Baglyos Reed
    Hand-drumming is a great way to release the music in you and experience the rush of playing music in a group. You don’t need previous musical experience to participate in this class for beginning to intermediate levels. We’ll explore traditional rhythms from Africa to Latin America and rhythms created on the spot in a drum jam style. You will be introduced to hand drum technique as it applies to these traditional rhythms. Some congas or djembe will be provided; you are encouraged to bring your own drum.
    Sundays, Time TBD, Apr 8 - May 13

  • World Music and Culture

    Beginning with an overview of world music that spans African nations to Asian and Middle Eastern countries, this course provides students with a basic vocabulary for understanding and connecting with world music and culture. Through field trips, classroom listening, group discussions, and demonstrations, we will explore specific arts and musical ideas from different cultures that can be used in music development and other individual student projects.
    Saturdays, 2:30-4 pm, Apr 7 - May 12

  • Music Theory for the Guitar Level I and II

    Instructor: Dale Dahlquist
    Great for a serious beginner or an accomplished musician. Invaluable for songwriting, improvising, pulling tunes from recordings and playing with others. Learn chord structure, how to index and play each in several forms. Through analysis of popular songs, learn chord relationships in a progression and how they resolve. Level I covers 13 chord types including major, minor, suspended, 6ths, 7ths, power chords. Level II includes 9ths, 11ths, 13ths, augmented, diminished, altered chords, inversions, and more sophisticated progressions. Prerequisites: Level I Introduction to Guitar, equivalent private instruction or a ravishing curiosity. Level II: Completion of Theory I or instructor consent.
    Level I: Wednesdays, 8-9:30 pm, Apr 11 - May 16
    Level II: Thursdays, 8-9:30 pm, Apr 12 - May 17

  • The Zen of American Primitive Guitar

    Instructor: Peter Lang
    Long time friend and collaborator of the legendary John Fahey, Peter Lang will give a multifaceted class, including insights on right and left hand technique. Students will:
    • Learn methods for muting and clarifying lead lines.
    • Be introduced to a variety of right hand picking styles.
    • Explore ways in which open tunings can give added dimension and coloring to arrangements.
    • Investigate composition issues, the use of dynamics and practical applications for slide and other open tuning techniques.
    The slide component of the class will look into lap vs. classical, glass vs. metal and the ways in which various tunings flavor the sound the slide produces. Tablature will be provided for lessons in both D (DADF#AD) and C (CGCGCE) tunings, among others.
    Saturdays, 1-2:30 pm, Ongoing, flexible start time.  $165

  • Jazz Improvisation

    Instructor: Paul Renz
    This course will include the study and application of the following improvisation techniques:
    • Listening
    • Melodic embellishment
    • Scales
    • Arpeggios
    • Phrasing
    • Cliches
    • Chromaticism
    • The development of personal style
    Students will improvise over simple music forms, chord vamps and 12-bar blues and work toward soloing in jazz standards.
    Saturdays, 2:30-4 pm (Ongoing)

  • Jazz Theory

    Instructor: Paul Renz
    Explore the harmonic structure of 12-bar blues progressions and standard song form. We’ll examine the connection between jazz harmony and improvisation techniques such as arpeggios, chord scales, guide tone lines and melodic embellishment. We’ll cover arranging and composition techniques, as well as jazz rhythms, notation and terminology.
    Saturdays, Time TBD, Apr 7 - May 12

  • The Sultry Ladies and Suave Gents of Jazz

    Instructor: Bobbi Miller
    When you think "Lady" of music, do you think Lady Day (Billie Holiday), not Lady Gaga?  Do you think you can give Ol' Blue Eyes a run for his money?  Whether you're a beginner or an advanced vocalist, this song will focus on the song stylings of some of the greats: Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Dinah Washington, Sarah Vaughan, Frank Sinatra, Mel Torme and Tony Bennett.  Each week we will learn two new songs, culminating in a final performance of some old school repertoire.  No experience required, just the desire to sing some of the classics!
    Tuesdays, 8-9:30 pm, Apr 10 - May 15

Bands & Ensembles

Learn and have fun making music with others.

Join one of our ensembles: a group of students who play a variety of instruments. Each ensemble is led by one of our teachers. All are professional musicians who work with a variety of experience levels and musical styles. The ensemble members and teacher set their goals, choose music, work on arrangements, and rehearse weekly. The teacher often plays with the group.

Benefits of playing in an ensemble.

  • Get expert help in matching you up with others who think like you musically.
  • Improve your sense of timing and hone your listening and practice skills.
  • Pick up songs you might not otherwise learn.
  • Experience the joy of musical collaboration.
  • Make enduring musical friendships.

Ready? Sign up now.

  1. Decide what level best fits your goals. (See ensemble levels below).
  2. Fill out the Ensemble Application Form.
  3. Check out the fees.
  4. Mail or email us your application for review. Some bands require a follow-up audition. Have questions? Contact Us.

Our ensemble choices.

African Music Siama Matuzungidi
American Folk Music Dale Dahlquist
Balkan Folk Music Nickolai Kolarov
Bluegrass Bill Philipp
Blues Jim Ouska
Celtic Jim Plattes
Dixeland Paul Fonfara
Gypsy Jazz Jim Plattes
Jazz Paul Renz
Jazz-Fusion, Jazz-Rock Paul Renz
Rock Contact us
Teen Rock Contact us
Vocal Bobbi Miller

Ensemble program descriptions.

  • Celtic Band for Youth or Adults
    Instructor: Jim Plattes

    Join this group and learn traditional jigs, reels, hornpipes, polkas, and airs.
  • Gypsy-Jazz Band for Youth or Adults
    Instructor: Jim Plattes

    Inspired by the Hot Club music of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli, this band offers students an opportunity to play classic swing music on stringed instruments and has room for 2-3 guitars, violin, string bass, clarinet, and maybe even a little chromatic harmonica.
  • Jazz and Jazz-fusion Bands for Adults

    Instructor: Paul Renz

    Paul Renz, Director of Jazz Studies, directs and performs with three student jazz ensembles.  Caterwaul features original music composed by two of its members. Laughing Sweaters specializes in vocal arrangements, and Good Question is building its repertoire of jazz standards.New ensembles are formed based on student interest and skill level.  These ensembles represent the core of a wonderful music community of like-minded adults, highly motivated students of jazz who meet weekly to rehearse, and work hard to develop their improvisation and composition skills.  Invariably, the participants are very supportive, friendly, and bring wonderful energy to the setting. Renz asks for a minimum 9 month commitment, September to June. The more accomplished groups occasionally perform in the community.

Summer Camp

Be the Band:  Rock and Pop Summer Youth Band Camp.

Sign up your young musician for a one-of-a-kind, fun and focused experience: the 2012 Rock and Pop Summer Youth Band Camp. Camp will be led by experienced WBSM teachers at the school Monday through Friday during June. There are two different sessions to choose from: June 18-22 and June 25-29, 2012.

Check out photos from the 2011 Summer Camp on our Facebook page and videos on our YouTube Channel

Dates and Times.

Session 1 - Sold Out
Orientation and bandmate selection: Thursday, June 14, 6–8 p.m.
Classes: Monday, June 18–Friday, June 22, 1–5 p.m.
Final Concert: Friday, June 22, 7 p.m.

Session 2 - Spots Still Open
Orientation and bandmate selection: Thursday, June 21, 6–8 p.m.
Classes: Monday, June 25–Friday, June 29, 1–5 p.m.
Final Concert: Friday, June 29, 7 p.m.

How to sign up.

Contact the school’s director, David Alderson, at 612-333-6651 or david@wbsm.org.

Students will learn:

  • Fundamentals of playing an instrument.
  • How to compose songs and write lyrics with band mates.
  • How to prepare for a performance.
  • How to communicate with band members.

Basic requirements.

Age range is 10 to 18. No experience is required. Beginner to intermediate students are welcome and will be grouped by age and ability.

Instruments and equipment we provide.

Tuition includes amps, cords and microphones, guitar,bass, drums, and keyboards. Bring your own instrument if you prefer, or any instrument not listed here.

Play a gig with your bandmates.

The final session will include a pizza party and a student performance at a local school.
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