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Choosing the right music lessons should feel exciting, not overwhelming. The Dallas School of Music Q&A page goes beyond answering questions — it helps you make confident decisions about your musical goals. Learn about our experienced instructors, flexible scheduling, and personalized lesson plans, and discover how we support growth in every student. Whether you study piano, guitar, voice, strings, drums, or another instrument, this page helps you take the next step with clarity and confidence.
ENROLLMENT PLANS | MEET OUR FACULTY | LOCATION AND HOURS | LESSONS NEAR YOU
ABOUT DSM
How long has The Dallas School of Music been around?
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The Dallas School of Music was founded in June of 1992 and has been providing high-quality music education to the Dallas community for over 30 years.
Who founded The Dallas School of Music
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The Dallas School of Music was founded by Dr. Bob Lawrence. While completing his doctoral studies at the University of North Texas, Dr. Lawrence conducted extensive research on community music education — the focus of his dissertation. His passion for music, education, and entrepreneurship helped shape the vision that continues to guide The Dallas School of Music today.
Do we have more than one location?
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We currently have one location, conveniently located at 14376 Proton Road, Dallas, TX 75244 (minutes away from the Galleria).
LESSONS
Are DSM lessons private?
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Yes — all lessons at The Dallas School of Music are private. Each student is thoughtfully matched with a personal faculty member to ensure instruction is tailored to their goals, experience, and learning style. While our entire faculty is committed to providing an exceptional learning environment, your lesson experience is always one-on-one and personalized.
Do I need prior experience to take lessons?
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No prior experience is required. We work with complete beginners through advanced students and tailor instruction to each individual’s starting point and goals.
Are lessons available for Adults?
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Yes! In fact, about half of our students are adults. We work with students ranging in age from 3 to 93, and our adult programs are welcoming, flexible, and supportive. Whether you’re a beginner or returning to music after many years, you’ll feel right at home at DSM.
What can I expect during a typical lesson?
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Lessons are structured yet flexible, focusing on technique, repertoire, musicianship, and individual goals. Your teacher will guide each lesson based on your experience level, interests, and learning style.
How long are DSM lessons?
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Lessons are available in 30- or 60-minute formats. Students may enroll for multiple lessons per week and can adjust lesson length as their needs and goals evolve.
What instruments do you teach?
Do I need my own instrument to start lessons?
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Not necessarily. For early lessons, students can often begin without owning an instrument. Your teacher will help guide you on when and what to purchase, based on your goals and level.
How quickly will I see (and hear) progress?
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Progress varies from student to student, but with consistent lessons and regular practice, most students begin noticing improvements within the first few weeks.
Does DSM offer performing opportunities?
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Absolutely. We offer multiple performance opportunities throughout each semester, giving students valuable solo and group performance experience. In addition to end-of-semester recitals, DSM students also participate in community outreach performances, including events at local retirement communities and children’s hospitals.
Are all of the lessons taught at The Dallas School of Music?
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Lessons are taught at our beautiful, contemporary, and state-of-the-art facility in Dallas. For added flexibility, we also offer online lessons, allowing students to learn from the comfort of their own home.
Can Parents sit in on lessons?
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Yes — parents are always welcome to sit in on lessons to experience their child’s learning environment firsthand. If you prefer not to attend the lesson, you’re welcome to relax in our reception areas or enjoy time in our Coffee Café, complete with complimentary coffee and tea.
What if I feel I need a different teacher?
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Our goal is the right match. If at any point you feel a change would be helpful, our team will work with you to ensure you have the best possible learning experience.
What if I need to miss a lesson?
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We understand that schedules can change. To support flexibility, each student receives two lesson credits every 90 days that may be used when conflicts arise.
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If you need to miss a lesson, simply cancel it through your private Opus1 support portal and reschedule at your convenience by selecting a new day and time directly from your teacher’s calendar. The process is quick, easy, and designed to keep your progress moving forward with minimal disruption.
How are DSM Lessons different from other organizations?
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All DSM lessons are taught by professional faculty who hold bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees in music and bring extensive teaching experience to every lesson. Our faculty are also active performers locally, nationally, and internationally.
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Beyond the weekly lesson, DSM students receive ongoing support through our Opus1 platform, which provides direct faculty messaging, resource sharing (PDFs, audio files, videos), and external learning materials. This level of professional support extends beyond lesson time and helps students stay engaged, motivated, and progressing throughout the week.
ENROLLMENT
Can I enroll at any time?
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You can enroll at any time — there’s no need to wait for a semester to begin. We offer four flexible enrollment options (Single Plan, Monthly Plan, Flex Plan, and Semester Plan), allowing you to start when you’re ready.
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Our Semester Plan, which offers our best tuition value, is prorated based on your start date, so you never miss out — no matter when you begin.
Why do I have to submit a Student Profile?
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Your Student Profile helps us get to know you so we can pair you with the instructor best suited to your goals, experience, and schedule. We’ll ask about things like availability, musical background, and what you hope to achieve through lessons.
How soon will lessons begin after submitting my Student Profile?
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The enrollment process typically takes 24 to 48 hours after submitting your Student Profile. Your information is personally reviewed to ensure details such as scheduling, placement, and goals are handled thoughtfully and accurately.
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Our goal is to make the process smooth, efficient, and stress-free — so you can begin lessons with confidence and clarity.
TUITION
How much does it cost to take lessons at The Dallas School of Music?
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Tuition at The Dallas School of Music varies based on lesson length and enrollment plan. New students may qualify for a special introductory semester rate, which includes a weekly private lesson, access to our private online student support portal (Opus1), and participation in optional performance opportunities.
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We offer multiple enrollment options — including Single Lesson, Monthly, Flex, and Semester plans — allowing students to choose the structure that best fits their goals and schedule. Full tuition details are shared during the enrollment process to ensure clarity and transparency.
How do I pay my tuition?
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Tuition may be paid using major credit or debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. Semester tuition may be paid in convenient monthly installments or paid in full at the start of the semester for a tuition savings.