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Be the Next American Idol in Houston’s Top 5 Music Schools

best-music-schools-houston
  • Qualifications: It’s important for us to include music schools with instructors who have strong educational backgrounds and experience in music.
  • Curriculum: We considered the variety of programs offered. We also checked if the music schools cover lessons for different musical instruments, vocal training, and music theory.
  • Performance opportunities: We checked for student opportunities provided by the music school such as recitals, concerts, and community events.
  • Student support: We checked the music school’s availability of additional support and resources, including practice sessions, music librariesm and mentorship programs.

Spending more time in the office has me rethinking my career choices. In fact, last night, I dreamt of being the next American Idol, and now I’m absolutely convinced that I want to pursue that dream.

Luckily, Houston has some of the best music schools to help me become the next big thing in town—or maybe even in the whole country!

So get ready to tune in, and join me as I explore the top music schools that can turn this dream into reality.

1. Muse Mantra School of Music & Arts

muse-mantra-school-of-music-arts

Services: Music Lessons, Piano Lessons, Guitar Lessons, Bass Guitar Lessons, Voice Lessons, Music Production

Website: http://www.musemantra.com/ 

Address: 3335 College Park Dr Suite 500, The Woodlands, TX 77384, United States

Contact Details: +1 936-267-2958

Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM; Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Sunday: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Google reviews score4.9/5
Total reviews5/5
Score consistency5/5
Qualifications4.8/5
Curriculum4.8/5
    Range of music genres    4.8/5
    Caters across all levels    4.8/5
Performance opportunities4.9/5
    In-house recitals & concerts    4.9/5
    Community & external performances    4.9/5
Student support4.9/5

We love how Muse Mantra School of Music & Arts maintains all instruments in good shape, allowing students to fully enjoy their lessons.

Another thing we appreciate about Muse Mantra School of Music & Arts is that their staff coordinates the kids’ class schedules. We also like how they accommodate vacation requests and make-up lessons.

What’s great about Muse Mantra School of Music & Arts is that they provide Mommy-and-Me classes. This allows mothers to assist their young kids as they easily ease into their music lessons.

Even better, their waiting area has coffee and tea facilities, allowing parents to conveniently wait for their turn.

And for those mothers who can’t physically be at the studio, we’re quite impressed that every classroom is equipped with live streaming cameras, allowing them to watch their children’s progress straight from their mobile phones.

We also commend Mantra School of Music & Arts for permitting parents to choose between purchasing the workbooks in school or getting them from another provider, allowing them to take full control of their budget.

On top of that, Mantra School of Music & Arts allows their students to express themselves by allowing them to pick out a piece they like to perform. They can also choose their wardrobe during the performance, which we love.

Pros

  • Provides Mommy & Me classes
  • Allows make-up lessons
  • Can arrange vacation requests

Cons

  • Some reports of being assigned to a different teacher without client’s permission
  • Premium rates

Hosts outdoor concerts

“My kids have been learning piano and guitar with muse mantra for almost two years now and we love it. My elder one started with ukulele and has already graduated to Guitar with Mr. Dan. The younger one has been loving piano since he started 2 years ago and has progressed significantly with Ms. Shelby. The school also does bi-annual recitals and outdoor concerts that is great for building confidence in children. The school staff is very professional and accommodating and have always worked with us -making the lessons fun and comfortable. I highly recommend muse mantra to parents who want their children to learn and appreciate music.”

Shekhar Gosavi, Google Review

Patient and knowledgeable instructors

“Muse Mantra has been an excellent school for our daughters to take piano and voice lessons. They can’t wait to start other instruments as well. The instructors are knowledgeable, patient, caring, and they make each lesson fun!  Muse Mantra also encourages recitals to build confidence and encourage the students to grow in their skills. Highly recommend this place for all ages and for all skill levels.”

Cherriza Kellogg, Google Review

2. School of Rock

school-of-rock

Services: Music Lessons, Songwriting Lessons, Adults Music Classes

Website: https://www.schoolofrock.com/locations/westuniversityplace 

Address: 2607 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005, United States

Contact Details: +1 832-900-7625 

Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 2:45 PM – 9:00 PM; Friday: 2:45 PM – 6:00 PM; Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Google reviews score3.9/5
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency5/5
Qualifications4.8/5
Curriculum4.8/5
    Range of music genres    4.8/5
    Caters across all levels    4.8/5
Performance opportunities4.9/5
    In-house recitals & concerts    4.9/5
    Community & external performances    4.9/5
Student support4.9/5

School of Rock is known to provide various music lessons for all skill levels. They even tailor fit programs according to age and musical aspirations, allowing clients to conveniently choose according to their goal.

We’re also quite impressed that their instructors guide their students from the get-go. They take their time in explaining the process and lessons, making the students more familiar with the terms and theories.

What we like about School of Rock is that they also offer private songwriting classes, covering the fundamentals, arrangement, and music theory. Even better, these lessons can be incorporated into the student’s ongoing weekly group for continuity purposes.

We also like that School of Rock offers weekly group rehearsals where kids between 8 to 13 learn classic rock songs which have been arranged for beginners.

This prevents them from feeling overwhelmed, focusing more on the basics in a fun and active atmosphere.

Apart from music classes for kids, we love that School of Rock also offers music lessons for adults. No need to worry as late bloomers are definitely welcome here!

However, School of Rock doesn’t have scheduled classes on Sundays. Those who have limited availability during weekdays may find it a bit challenging to secure classes at School of Rock.

Pros

  • Also offers music lessons for adults
  • Integrated private and group classes
  • Offers songwriting classes

Cons

  • Closed on Sundays
  • Some reports of overlooked email messages

Extensive scope of lessons

“School of Rock has been an outstanding experience for my son over the last 7 years. He is not a natural athlete, rather a natural artist. The West U “coaches” have allowed his self esteem to thrive in a disciplined but caring atmosphere. I would highly encourage a parent to consider this school if your child has any musical desires or talents. The owner and instructors offer a wonderful opportunity for them to excel. The scope and breadth is extensive, from beginner to advanced.  Also please beware of false reviews that are clearly and unfairly negatively targeting this fine school. The owner is very active in all the activities at the school and of high integrity.”

Stephen Kradjian, Google Review

Passionate and inspiring teachers

“Kids always have a great time and West U School of Rock has really sparked a passion for music in them.  Well run, friendly plus passionate and inspiring teachers. It’s amazing what they can achieve together!”

Michael Brownlie, Google Review

3. Texas School of Music

texas-school-of-music

Services: Music Lessons, Brass Lessons, Bass Guitar Lessons, Guitar Lessons, Piano Lessons, Violin Lessons, Voice Lessons

Website: http://txschoolofmusic.com/ 

Address: 4003 Bellaire Blvd Suite DD, Houston, TX 77025, United States

Contact Details: +1 281-974-5468

Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM; Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Google reviews score5/5
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency5/5
Qualifications4.8/5
Curriculum4.8/5
    Range of music genres    4.8/5
    Caters across all levels    4.8/5
Performance opportunities5/5
    In-house recitals & concerts    5/5
    Community & external performances    5/5
Student support4.9/5

What we like about the Texas School of Music is that they offer lessons for an extensive range of musical instruments, including ukulele, clarinet, tuba, and percussion, just to name a few.

Another thing we like about the Texas School of Music is that they offer private lessons for students of all ages. Even better, this music school tailors each lesson based on a student’s capability and musical interest, which we love.

What’s great about Texas School of Music is that clients can avail of a trial lesson, allowing them to check the quality of training the school offers before they sign up.

Meanwhile, we appreciate the staff of Texas School of Music for sending out reminder texts before each class, reminding students or clients about their class schedule. This also allows them to prepare their homework.

Texas School of Music also hosts recitals frequently, giving clients more opportunities to perform and hone their skills.

We’re also quite impressed with how patient and dedicated their teachers are. We love how they take their time in explaining musical theories to each student, making them appreciate every class even more.

However, due to its popularity, Texas School of Music attends to a lot of clients. Limited weekend availability could also be an issue, so make sure to schedule an appointment ahead of time.

Pros

  • Offers classes for extensive musical instruments
  • Offers private lessons for all ages
  • Has trial lessons

Cons

  • High volume of clients
  • Limited weekend availability 

Sends out class appointment reminders

“My son is 5.5 yrs and we started guitar lesson from Mr.Orlando just two months ago and within short period my son can play songs without even seeing the book. Thanks to Mr.Orlando for teaching so patiently, in a way my son likes and enjoys . Also they send me reminders before lesson which helps me to not miss classes. After every session the teacher sends out the lesson notes which is very much useful. Miss, Bonnie is such a sweet person and helps us with proper communication. Great team!”

Pam M, Google Review

Promotes a positive environment for students

“Texas School of Music hosts a positive learning environment for all students. One of the piano teachers named Michelle Killgore has particularly stood out to me. She holds a positive attitude towards people of all music levels, and encourages one to be their best selves. I recommend her to anyone interested in piano!”

Angie Martinez, Google Review

4. International Music Academy

international-music-academy

Services: Music Lessons, Piano Lessons, Violin Lessons, Cello Lessons

Website: http://www.theinternationalmusicacademy.com/ 

Address: 4714 Ingersoll St, Houston, TX 77027, United States 

Contact Details: +1 832-419-3415

Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Google reviews score5/5
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency5/5
Qualifications5/5
Curriculum5/5
    Range of music genres    5/5
    Caters across all levels    5/5
Performance opportunities5/5
    In-house recitals & concerts    5/5
    Community & external performances    5/5
Student support5/5

What’s great about the International Music Academy is that their students can have a dedicated recital performance at Rice University once they finish their first semester, enhancing a student’s portfolio and adding credibility to their experience.

On top of that, enrolling in the International Music Academy also gives their students a chance to avail their international exchange program, exposing them to world-class musicians, which is a plus in our books. 

Another thing we like about International Music Academy of Houston is that they assign a teacher to a student based on his or her goals and needs. This setup supports a learning environment that encourages growth, which we love.

We’re also quite impressed that the International Music Academy allows their students to perform to three faculty members at the end of each term. This gives students more insights based on constructive feedback about their progress.

It’s also worth mentioning that the teachers add more lessons weeks before any competition, ensuring that their students are prepared and ready before the big day.

However, given that this music school is prestigious, music lessons and terms are longer compared to its counterparts. It’s best to prepare both the budget and time to make the most of it.

Pros

  • Recital performance at Rice University
  • Provides international student exchange program
  • Assigns dedicated teacher based on student’s goals

Cons

  • Premium rates
  • Class terms are longer

High attention to detail

“Our family has taken piano lessons at the International Music Academy with Katarina Ryndina Loudermilk for 8 years now.  Our sons have grown tremendously as musicians, and we have benefitted so much from the many hours we have spent in the studio.  At certain times before competitions, we’ve had multiple lessons per week to prepare and get ready.  Katarina’s attention to detail is superb, and her musicality impeccable.  Not only has she given our sons the technical skills they need to create their own musical interpretations of classical masterpieces, but she has helped them to develop into disciplined soon-to-be-adults who take ownership over their musicmaking.  Notable, we have also found, is her attention to finding exactly the right piece to study next.  She will keep the students on the same piece for a long time, until they reach a degree of perfection and mastery that allows the music to be truly beautiful, but she is also eager to expand their repertoire as much as is practicably possible.  Competitions are important, but they are not the end all be all.  Creating beauty and the personal joy that comes with that, and then being able to share it with others is the final goal.  One son is on the competitive piano route, one is not, but both kids get her undivided support.”

Araceli Graham Jonsson, Google Review

Provides opportunity to compete internationally

“I was a student at the International Music Academy for 12+ plus years, and I could not have asked for a better environment to push me to grow as an artist! My teacher Matthew Loudermilk, through his dedication and passion for piano, helped me exceed expectations and improve my skills as a musician and performer. Every student here is paired with an accomplished & professional teacher that stays with them throughout their time at IMA so the student-teacher relationships are very strong- I know and hope to keep in touch with mine for years to come! During my time here I not only learned a lot musically, but I also was able to have so many new experiences! I traveled to and performed in China, competed in a national piano competition two years in a row, and was a part of a Russian foreign exchange piano student program here in Houston. I will never forget my time here and will forever cherish all wonderful things it has provided me with. I highly recommend this music school to anyone looking to take lessons!”

Kerrigan Quenemoen, Google Review

5. River Oaks Music School

river-oaks-music-school

Services: Music Lessons, Piano Lessons, Guitar Lessons

Website: http://riveroaksmusicschool.com/ 

Address: 1701 S Shepherd Dr E, Houston, TX 77019, United States 

Contact Details: +1 713-520-8383 

Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Google reviews score4.3/5
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency5/5
Qualifications4.2/5
Curriculum4.3/5
    Range of music genres    4.5/5
    Caters across all levels    4/5
Performance opportunities4.6/5
    In-house recitals & concerts    4.7/5
    Community & external performances    4.5/5
Student support4.5/5

We like the instructors at River Oaks Music School, especially how they relate with the younger students. They create more engaging lesson plans, incorporating the kids’ interests and favorites, making them more interested in learning.

On top of that, we appreciate how they provide clear instructions during each lesson, allowing the newbies to fully grasp what they need to learn.

Another thing we like about River Oaks Music School is that they offer trial lessons. This will allow clients to gauge if the lesson plan and the environment would fit their bill.

River Oaks Music School is open seven days a week, making them a top choice for those with busier schedules. And for those who really cannot attend onsite classes, online music lessons are also available for their convenience.

When it comes to recitals, River Oaks Music School hosts two per year—one during spring, and another during fall. This gives students more opportunities to improve their skills, and let go of their fears of being on the stage.

In terms of musical instruments, we appreciate that this music school allows rental and purchase at a friendlier price. They even offer low monthly payments, allowing clients to stick to their budget.

Pros

  • Online classes are available
  • Offers trial music lessons
  • Instrument rentals

Cons

  • Some reports of slow responses over email and messages
  • A few instances of cancelled lessons

Convenient location

“We have had a wonderful experience the past year that my 7 year old has been taking piano lessons.  He continues to learn new skills every lesson on top of learning a fun Mario theme song to keep him enthusiastic about playing.  It is conveniently located for us too, which really helps.”

Sara Brennan, Google Review

Very engaging instructors

“My daughters ages 5 and 7 have been taking classes with Chris (Flash) for over a year and they love it.  Chris is teaching them piano and singing and he always makes it fun and interesting, from bringing in a mic and speakers for them to sing their hearts out, to making up silly words to piano songs, or singing in all kinds of funny voices.  They always want to go back and it is all because of what a great engaging teacher Chris is.”

KK, Google Review

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