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Best Places For Adult Music Classes In San Francisco

Many adults learned to play an instrument as a child and then had to put it aside as life got in the way. Others have always wanted to try their hand at making music, but are unsure where to start. San Francisco is a hotbed of musical performance and instruction, and there is no shortage of opportunities for adults of all ages to revisit or learn to play a new instrument. Here are five of the best spots for adult music classes in San Francisco.

Blue Bear School Of Music
Fort Mason
2 Marina Blvd., Bldg. D
San Francisco, CA 94123
(415) 673-3600
www.bluebearmusic.org

The Blue Bear School of Music offers adult instruction in a variety of instruments and styles. Students may choose from private lessons or group classes. All levels of experience are welcome, from the complete beginner to most advanced musician. Classes are offered in everything from guitar and mandolin, to drums and voice. In addition to private instruction, students may also enroll in band workshops, where they will have the opportunity to partner with other musicians and practice under the guidance of a professional music coach. Discounts are offered for four- and 10-lesson packages.

San Francisco Community Music Center
544 Capp St.
San Francisco, CA 94110
(415) 647-6015
www.sfcmc.org

San Francisco's Community Music Center has been providing musical education to children and adults since 1921. The Mission neighborhood center offers instruction in everything from piano and percussion to woodwinds and voice. SFCMC is dedicated to making musical instruction available to everyone, and has an income-based sliding scale fee for those coming from low-income households. In addition, the facility has a performance hall, practice rooms for rent, and even an older adults' choir.

San Francisco Conservatory of Music
50 Oak St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 864-7326
www.sfcm.edu

While geared towards providing college-aged students with professional music instruction, the San Francisco Conservatory of Music also has an Adult Extension Division. Admissions auditions are typically held twice yearly, and are required for acceptance into private lessons. Prior experience is not required. Lessons are offered in all orchestra instruments, in addition to guitar, harp, voice and even composition.

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Brian Wolfe Music
San Francisco, CA 94131
(510) 698-9296
www.brianwolfemusic.com

Descendent of a musical lineage, professional musician Brian Wolfe has performed with the likes of George Clinton and Enrique Iglesias. When not performing, Wolfe offers private instruction in piano, saxophone and drums. Lessons are available Mondays through Thursdays for students ages six and up. Beginner through advanced students are welcome, and voice and theory instruction is also available.

Songbird Studios
1463 Pine St.
San Francisco, CA 94109
(415) 935-4383
www.songbirdsf.com

Nob Hill-based Songbird Studios specializes in lessons for both the beginning and seasoned singer. Instruction is available for singing and voice, in both private and group lesson environments. The studio requires students to become members, and all students are charged a monthly membership fee, based upon class length and frequency. All ages and levels of experience are welcome.

Related: Best Voice Lessons In The East Bay

Joanna Metheny is a freelance writer covering all things South Bay. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

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