Is It Normal to Take Adult Guitar Lessons at a Teacher’s Home?
As a music instructor, I have been teaching guitar, banjo, and mandolin in my home studio for years. If I were to rent a building or another location, I would definitely have to charge more to cover the additional costs. However, teaching from one’s home studio is common and a well-respected practice. I have personally taken lessons at various teachers' homes as a 22-year-old, and it was undoubtedly a positive experience.
The Tradition of Home Lessons
Traditionally, all music lessons were given in the teacher’s home or studio. Once upon a time, it was the norm. However, I do not provide lessons at home for several reasons. Firstly, my bachelor pad is not the most conducive environment; it tends to be a bit of a tip (messy). Secondly, being out and about too often makes it challenging to maintain a consistent schedule for home lessons. Lastly, many of my students are children, and it is more convenient and comfortable for them to learn in a familiar environment at their own home, with a parent present to assist if needed.
While some more senior teachers stick to teaching exclusively at their homes, I firmly believe that face-to-face tuition is superior to online lessons. The rise of online teaching became widespread during the lockdown period when teachers needed to find alternative means of earning income. However, online lessons remain less satisfactory in many cases because certain things can only be adequately demonstrated in person. In my opinion, online teachers should be charging significantly less than those offering face-to-face lessons. Despite this, many teachers continue to offer both online and in-home lessons based on personal preference and student convenience.
The Rise of Virtual Lessons
Before the pandemic, in-person lessons were probably the default method for taking guitar lessons. However, the widespread use of video meeting technology has changed that. The growth in video meeting technology has been possible for years, but it wasn’t the default choice until a strong driver, such as the pandemic, shifted people's behavior.
My guitar teacher, Nick, used to conduct lessons at his home. Due to the pandemic, we transitioned to remote lessons, and it has turned out to be a convenient arrangement. He has recently moved house, making his location 30 minutes further from me, but this hasn’t affected my ability to continue with the lessons. He offers a mix of video and in-home lessons depending on the student's preference. My sister-in-law, on the other hand, has the option to take drum lessons at her home, which is easier for her to use her drum kit. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal choice.
Conclusion
It is completely normal to take adult guitar lessons at a teacher’s home. Many students find it convenient, familiar, and effective, especially when the teacher is also nearby. As an instructor, I prioritize face-to-face interaction, which I believe is irreplaceable. However, with the rise in video technology and the pandemic, remote lessons have become a viable alternative. The choice ultimately depends on the individual's preferences and the nature of the lesson.