Music Lessons

Discover Your Musical Potential!

  • Do you want to learn to play every Christmas song ever written?  Great!
  • Are you looking for guidance on how to play in your church's praise band? We got you!
  • Are you wanting to become involved in area ensembles, like The Metropolitan Chorale?  Your teacher can help guide you!  
Music lessons at the University of Northern Iowa Community Music School (CMS) provide individualized instruction for students of all ages and ability levels. Whether you’re picking up an instrument for the first time, returning after a break, or pursuing advanced study, our experienced instructors are here to support your musical journey.
 
Academic Year Lessons                         
Community Music School

Why Choose Music Lessons at the UNI Community Music School?

Benefits for Students

  • Personalized learning tailored to your goals
  • Supportive and knowledgeable teachers passionate about student growth
  • Opportunities to perform in recitals and performance classes throughout the year
  • Access to quality facilities, including professionally maintained pianos and dedicated lesson studios
Student playing at a grand piano in a classroom.

Recitals & Performance Opportunities

Students are invited to participate in multiple performance events each year, providing valuable experience in sharing music with the community.
Students and Teachers posing together after a recital
Teacher and student standing together smiling
Teacher clapping and smiling for student, sitting next to her on the piano bench
UNI Student teaching a percussion lesson on the snare drum.

Who Are Our Teachers?

CMS instructors include:

  • Professional performers
  • Experienced music educators
  • UNI School of Music students pursuing music degrees

All CMS teachers and staff working with minors undergo annual criminal background checks to ensure a safe and supportive environment.

What We OfferAidan Anderson playing the sousaphone outside.

Instruments & Areas of Study

Private lessons are available year‑round for:

  • Woodwinds: flute, clarinet, saxophone, oboe, bassoon
  • Brass: trumpet, trombone, horn, euphonium, tuba
  • Percussion
  • Piano (including adult-focused classes)

Instruction Formats

  • In-person lessons on UNI’s campus
  • Virtual lessons for remote learners
    Convenient parking and waiting areas are available for in‑person students.

Lesson Length Options

Students may register for:

  • 30‑minute lessons
  • 45‑minute lessons
  • 60‑minute lessons
    Lessons take place weekly, with flexible scheduling throughout the year.

When Can I Start?

Anytime!
The Community Music School accepts new students throughout the year. If you register mid‑term, your tuition is pro‑rated so you only pay for the remaining lessons.

New students are typically contacted within five business days to arrange teacher placement and scheduling.

kids standing in a half circle, around a microphone, with their arms around each other, singing

Register for Lessons

Ready to begin?
Start your musical journey today by completing our simple registration form:

👉 Academic Year Lessons

👉 Summer Lessons

Tuition & Discounts

  • Tuition varies by lesson length and term. See the Lesson Tuition page for more information.
  • 20% discount available for members of the Children’s Choir, Community Horn Choir, and New Horizons Band.
    For detailed pricing, contact: unicommunitymusic@uni.edu.

Important Policy Note

To ensure instruction quality and student safety, all registration and payment must occur through the official CMS program. Teaching privately within UNI School of Music facilities outside Community Music School programs violates university policy.

Still Have Questions?

We’re happy to help you find the right teacher, schedule, or program.
Contact the UNI Community Music School:
📧 unicommunitymusic@uni.edu
📞 319‑273‑2142

2021 Virtual CMS Summer Recital

Community Music School