I'm an adult beginner currently taking private piano lessons once a week. However, recently I saw that my local music conservatory offers beginner lessons in a small classroom situation. My question is...is there anyone who is starting out who has had both private/classroom lessons? If so, what do you feel are the main differences between the two? Pros and cons? Is one better than the other? Thanks! Aurelie

I went to a community centre group piano class for a couple of weeks. I think the community centre's teacher was less qualified than a conservatory class - at least where I am. The group session is good for experience performing with/for other students but for me, as I was also taking private lessons, I found the quality of instruction not worth the time. If it's a conservator group I'd bet that the experience would be a positive one.

Perhaps you can talk to the instructor or the classroom lesson and ask if you could sit in on one to see what it is like.

I decided to start learning at the local college. The first (compact Summer) semester of 6 weeks taught me an immense amount of skills and knowledge. I continued with a theory class online and am now in the second semester piano during the Fall Semester.

I will eventually start taking private lessons once I have enough basics in me and know better which direction I want to go.

A huge benefit is the cost--I pay $36 for the entire semester.