4 Excellent Piano Schools in New York You Should Check Out
4 Excellent Piano Schools in New York You Should Check Out
If you want piano lessons in NYC, here are 4 top non-profit music schools. These schools hire professional working musicians as instructors, so you get high quality instruction.
What to Look For When Choosing a Piano School in NYC
- Some music schools are more business-oriented; they may hire instructors who are not classically trained pianists (singers, drummers, etc.). Beginners may not mind, but advanced students might hit a ceiling.
- Think about your goals: Is it for fun? For serious classical training? For performance opportunities?
- Consider proximity, schedule flexibility, and whether the school offers recitals or performance chances.
How to Tell if a Student Has Musical Potential
Here are signs that a child might thrive in more serious piano study:
- Expressive playing
- Able to read sheet music by age 4
- Able to play by ear
- Motivated to practice on their own
- Learns new pieces quickly
4 Recommended Non-Profit Piano Schools in NYC
Below are four excellent non-profit options. Some of the original ones you mentioned (like Lucy Moses / Kaufman, BKCM, Greenwich House) are real and good; I’ve checked updated details for at least a few.
| School | Highlights | Program / Tuition Information & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lucy Moses School (Kaufman Music Center) | One of NYC’s largest community arts schools. Offers classes & private lessons for all ages and levels. Teachers are professional working artists. Has group classes, ensemble opportunities, adult learners, etc. Kaufman Music Center+3Kaufman Music Center+3Kaufman Music Center+3 | Private lessons in 30 / 45 / 60 / 90 minute lengths. Offers group and adult classes. Registration is year-round. Financial aid & scholarships exist. Located at 129 West 67th St, Manhattan. Kaufman Music Center+3Kaufman Music Center+3Kaufman Music Center+3 |
| Brooklyn Conservatory of Music (BKCM) | Rich tradition (127 years), strong non-profit, very broad programs (private lessons, group classes, Suzuki, ensembles) for all ages. Great for children & adults. High quality teachers and many resources. Brooklyn Conservatory of Music+3Brooklyn Conservatory of Music+3Brooklyn Conservatory of Music+3 | Some sample prices: beginner adult piano class (16 weeks) costs about US$768. Summer private lessons: 30-min ≈ $98, 45-min ≈ $112, 60-min ≈ $132. Brooklyn Conservatory of Music+1 |
| Greenwich House Music School | Community music school established over a century ago. Has a variety of instructors. Offers piano among many instruments, early childhood music, adult education, multiple faculty of high calibre. Wikipedia | They offer private and group lessons, performance opportunities. Tuition is somewhat high but reflects quality and location. (Exact current rates vary; contact them directly.) Wikipedia |
| Third Street Music School Settlement | (Originally in your list) This is also a historic non-profit with deep roots in music education in NYC. They have strong faculty, performance opportunities, outreach programs. (Note: I couldn’t find recent detailed pricing as quickly as Lucy Moses or BKCM in the sources I checked, but it’s a good choice especially for children.) | If choosing this school, always check faculty’s performance credentials, student recitals, and whether they offer trial lessons. |
Updated Costs / What to Expect (2025)
- Private lesson rates in non-profit schools tend to vary by length, teacher experience, and location. Approximate summer private lesson rates at BKCM: $98 (30 min), $112 (45 min), $132 (60 min). Brooklyn Conservatory of Music
- Group classes for adults (for example at BKCM) can run to $768 for a 16-week term. Brooklyn Conservatory of Music
- Lucy Moses private lesson lengths: 30 / 45 / 60 / 90 min. Slightly more expensive in Manhattan, but financial aid is possible. Kaufman Music Center+2Kaufman Music Center+2
Tips for Beginners: What to Avoid & What to Prioritiz
Try a few lessons or trial classes before committing long term.
Avoid teachers/schools that pressure you too much before mastering fundamentals. A teacher who is too strict or pushes expensive equipment / gear early can discourage you.
Prioritize: a teacher who inspires you, with performance opportunities, someone who listens, someone whose style you enjoy.
Conclusion
Choosing the right piano school can make all the difference—both in enjoyment and in progress. With one of these non-profit options, you can get excellent instruction without being overcharged. If you can, visit the schools, talk to teachers, try a lesson, and trust your musical instincts.
