Private Lessons or Groups? Which format works better?

Introduction

When it comes to learning music, one size does not fit all. Every student comes with their own personality, goals, pace of learning, and schedule. At Rising Tones Institute of Music, we’ve embraced this reality by introducing a multi-format approach to music education that offers both private one-on-one lessons and small group sessions (with a maximum of three students per class).

This approach isn’t just about flexibility; it’s about giving every student the environment that best suits their journey. In this article, we’ll explore the strengths of each format, the unique value of small group lessons, and how offering both formats empowers learners of all ages.

Why Format Matters in Music Learning

Just as music is made of diverse instruments and sounds that come together in harmony, music education too requires diversity in its structure. A growing body of educational research supports the idea that different learning environments support different outcomes. According to a 2019 report from Education Endowment Foundation, collaborative learning often increases motivation, while individualized instruction helps fine-tune technique.

At Rising Tones, we align our teaching methods with this principle by offering:

• Private One-on-One Lessons

• Small Group Lessons (Max 3 Students)

Each serves a unique purpose and offers specific benefits. Let's explore.

Benefits of Private One-on-One Lessons

Personalized Attention
Every lesson is tailored to the student’s individual needs, learning style, and pace.

Flexible Progression
Students can advance through material at their own speed without comparison to peers.

Deeper Teacher-Student Connection
A strong rapport encourages confidence and personalized coaching.

Ideal for Special Focus
Perfect for exam preparation, songwriting, or targeting a specific skill (e.g., vocal range, jazz improvisation).

Real-Life Example: Aiden, a 10-year-old piano student on the autism spectrum, found comfort and consistency in one-on-one sessions. The format allowed his teacher to build a calm, structured environment around his sensory needs. Today, Aiden not only plays confidently but also uses music to express himself more freely.

Benefits of Small Group Lessons (Max 3 Students)

Collaborative Energy
Students are energized by learning alongside peers, often motivating each other in fun, constructive ways.

Development of Ensemble Skills
Playing or singing with others builds rhythm, timing, and listening skills.

Confidence Building
Sharing progress in a small setting helps students become comfortable performing.

More Affordable
Group lessons make music education accessible to more families without compromising quality.

Social Connection
Students form bonds and learn how to give and receive peer feedback—a crucial life skill.

Real-Life Example: Zara, an 8-year-old guitar student, started with one-on-one lessons but blossomed after switching to a small group class. Learning alongside two peers gave her the social motivation she needed. She began taking initiative, performing group solos, and even encouraging her peers.

Supported by Research: A 2021 study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that small-group collaborative learning significantly enhances student engagement, especially in younger learners.

Why Small Group = Best of Both Worlds

Small group lessons with a maximum of three students are not simply "group" sessions. They combine the intimacy of private instruction with the dynamism of peer learning. Teachers can still provide individual feedback, while students gain the advantage of collaboration and peer observation.

This format is particularly powerful for:

      Beginners who are shy or unsure

      Intermediate students needing peer inspiration

      Adults looking for an engaging, social learning experience

At Rising Tones, we view small group learning as a ‘bridge’ format—connecting the focused depth of private lessons with the musical growth that comes from interaction.

How Rising Tones Innovates for Your Growth By offering both private and small group formats, we:

      Allow students to start in one format and transition as their confidence and goals evolve

      Provide flexibility for different budgets and schedules

      Match students to formats based on their goals, personality, and teacher input

Our multi-format model is rooted in the belief that music learning should be adaptable, inclusive, and sustainable.

How Is This Applicable to You?

A) Existing Students: Add Variety or Sharpen Focus

Already learning with us? You may benefit from adding a second format:

      Add a group class for ensemble practice

      Stay in 1-on-1 but try group sessions during holidays or special workshops

      Explore group learning to refresh motivation or budget flexibility

You get: broader skills, new inspiration, and the ability to grow in multiple ways.

B) Thinking of Joining Rising Tones: Choose Your Start Point

If you’re considering starting music lessons, the biggest question is: Where do I begin?

     Not sure if your child is ready for private lessons? Start with a small group.

     Want personalized attention from Day 1? Book a 1-on-1 intro session.

     Unsure? We’ll help you decide the best fit after understanding your goals.

You get: flexibility, expert guidance, and the ability to move confidently toward musical progress.

C) On a Break or Thinking of Rejoining: Reignite at Your Pace

If you’ve taken a break, or your child stopped for any reason, this is a perfect time to re-engage with more clarity and flexibility:

     Try a group session to ease back in socially and cost-effectively

      Choose private lessons if you want a confidence-rebuilding safe space

      Join a blended format - like a monthly group session + bi-weekly private coaching

You get: support, understanding, and structure to help you (or your child) succeed without pressure.

Conclusion: Choose a Place That Offers Choice

At Rising Tones, we don’t believe in forcing students into one path. Instead, we provide structured freedom through both one-on-one and small group options.

We understand that learning music is more than just playing notes - it’s about building confidence, creativity, and connection. And that requires the right format at the right time.

Let us help you find the format that works best for you.

🎵 Whether you’re an active student, a prospective learner, or someone looking to return to music, Rising Tones has a space that fits you.

Book a FREE intro consult today and explore your ideal format. Let’s make your music journey fulfilling, flexible, and fun.

Sources:

         1) Education Endowment Foundation (2019), Collaborative Learning Research

         2) Journal of Educational Psychology (2021), Benefits of Small Group Learning in Arts Education