Matthew TremblayIf you’re a Halifax resident looking to enroll your child in an enriching activity or an adult picking up a new hobby, finding the right instructor makes a big difference. Learning an instrument requires patience and the proper environment to thrive.
I spent time evaluating the best music schools in Halifax to help locals and expats narrow down their choices. Let’s explore the top spots where you can start your musical education.
How much does enrolling in music schools cost in Halifax?
Private music lessons in Halifax generally cost between $25 and $35 for a 30-minute session, with full-year programs ranging from $450 to over $700.
| School / Service | Average Rates |
| Long & McQuade Lesson Centre | $25–$31 per 30 minutes |
| Accents Music Learning Centre | $116–$226 per month (varies by level) |
| Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts | Starts at $37 per 30 minutes |
| HFX Music Studio | $117–$234 per month (varies by duration) |
| Merry Time Music Co. | ~$148 per month (30-minute weekly lessons) |
How We Reviewed
1. Soul Strings Music
Website: annashabalina.com
Address: 3700 Joseph Howe Drive
Contact: +1 437-214-0944 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday to Thursday 12:00PM–8:00PM
Anna Shabalina of Soul Strings Music guides students with over two decades of international performance background. Her methodology uniquely combines cello technique with basic piano skills to foster a comprehensive understanding of the craft.
I recently spoke with a colleague who booked her custom live ensemble for a corporate event. They said they were thoroughly impressed by her inclusive age range approach and professional-grade audio setup.
Returning adults and advanced musicians will find her integrated educational approach highly beneficial for their continued growth.
She offers expertise across various genres, including traditional classical pieces and world music. This versatility allows students to explore different artistic directions under one roof.
The only downside is her strict minimum age requirement. She doesn’t accept early childhood beginners under seven years old.
Customer Reviews
Great Mentor for Combining Academics and Piano
Anna is very understanding and with her, I never had problems combining my academic persuits with playing piano, as she adjusted very well to my schedule and my pace. I totally recommend Anna as a musical instrument teacher. You will learn a lot and have a great time picking up a new instrument or continuing your musical journey. She is a wonderful teacher and a great mentor.
- Denis Voloshin | Google Reviews
Methodical and Kind Cello Teacher for Returners
I learnt the cello growing up to an intermediate level but had not played in over 10 years. Anna helped me immensely with various new techniques I had not done before. She is very methodical and disciplined in her approach yet also very empathetic and kind. I never felt judged for playing ‘poorly’ and always felt very encouraged. She is a great teacher!!
- Francesca B | Google Reviews
2. Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts
Website: maritimeconservatory.com
Address: 6199 Chebucto Rd
Contact: 902-423-6995 | [email protected]
Hours: September to June: Monday to Friday 8:30AM–9:00PM, Saturday 8:30AM–6:00PM, Sunday 8:30AM–5:00PM | July to August: Monday, Wednesday & Friday 8:30AM–5:00PM, Tuesday & Thursday 8:30AM–9:00PM, Saturday 10:00AM–3:00PM, Sunday 9:00AM–12:00PM
As a deeply established non-profit institution with over 135 years of history, the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts stands as one of the oldest standard-setting facilities for arts education in the region.
Students here benefit from an exceptionally large educational team featuring over 50 highly experienced instructors. They welcome young beginners with specialized Suzuki violin training starting at just four years old.
The facility also prepares advanced learners for upper-level academic diplomas through the Royal Conservatory of Music.
We like that they provide the ability to join mid-term with prorated billing, making it an accessible option for those unable to commit to a standard academic calendar.
While their financial assistance programs help lower-income families access classes, withdrawing from a program incurs strict financial penalties and administrative deductions.
Families must also pay a mandatory supplementary registration fee on top of standard tuition.
Customer Reviews
Professional, Kind Teachers and Beautiful School
The place is beautiful, and the teachers are both demanding and incredibly kind with the children : true professionals and educators who help them make real progress. There are opportunities for children to play in ensembles or groups, and you can also attend recitals throughout the year (which are wonderful). In short, it’s amazing!!
- Sylvain Ornetti | Google Reviews
Wonderful Kinder Music Program with Small Classes
I can only speak on the kinder music program here, but it is great. The teachers are wonderful with each and every child. Classes are relatively small, so each student gets their own attention given to them. Lots of movement, songs, musical instruments to try out and play with. A story is read in each session to go along with the theme. There are books for the children to take home as well.
- Valerie Spidle Davis | Google Reviews
3. Scotia Suzuki School of Music Inc.
Website: scotiasuzuki.org
Address: 6141 Chebucto Rd
Contact: 902-476-7776 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday to Friday 2:00PM–8:00PM | Saturday 8:00AM–12:00PM
Every single instructor at Scotia Suzuki holds full certification from the Suzuki Association of the Americas. This helps ensure a highly standardized teaching philosophy.
Beyond standard instruments, junior and senior high school students can pursue dedicated Musical Theatre certificates here.
They feature an in-house instrument lending service that conveniently provides quality violins while utilizing those funds to support underprivileged learners.
Adult beginners can take advantage of flexible lesson blocks without committing to long-term semesters. The school director has also developed a unique digital resource program specifically designed to help parents manage positive home practice sessions.
One notable drawback is their strict cancellation policy for summer camps. Canceling less than thirty days prior results in a complete forfeiture of all paid fees. The required initial payment for camp registration also acts as an unrecoverable deposit.
Customer Reviews
Community and Diverse Cultural Music Learning
I have so enjoyed seeing all of the community that Scotia Suzuki school has brought our family. The teachers, director and students are all learning to play music from different cultures and engaged with those that they are learning alongside. Such a gem!
- Miriam Morales | Google Reviews
Incredible, Encouraging Piano Lessons; Son is Thriving
Our 9 year old son started taking piano lessons at Suzuki when he was 7 and it’s been an incredible experience! His teachers are patient, supportive, and encouraging. He has grown so much as a musician and just celebrated learning his entire book 1 with a concert the school coordinated just for him, which was such a lovely night to celebrate his hard work! We love Suzuki and our son is thriving!
- Joanne Gallant | Google Reviews
4. Halifax Drum School
Website: halifaxdrumschool.com
Address: 3180 Heinish Ave
Contact: [email protected]
Hours: Contact for Availability
The primary instructor at the Halifax Drum School brings decades of professional touring experience to the classroom, having performed at numerous live music venues in Halifax and across multiple continents.
With this background, students receive specialized training in standard drum kit techniques alongside international hand drumming. They allow beginners to start their training even if they don’t own a drum set at home
I attended a trial session here a few months ago and appreciated how the teaching method abandons generic textbooks in favor of custom-tailored practice guides given at the end of every meeting.
The studio also maintains an open-door policy, actively encouraging parents to monitor their child’s educational progress directly.
On the downside, rescheduling a missed class is not guaranteed, as finding a replacement session relies entirely on the instructor’s open availability. Students are also expected to carry their own specific organizational tools back and forth regularly.
Customer Reviews
Encouraging Drum Teacher Tailors Lessons to Goals
I have been a student of Ian’s for a few years now and what keeps me coming back is his encouraging teaching style, whether you’ve played before or are curious as to whether or not drums are right for you, he will help you find your groove. I knew nothing about playing the drums when I first became his student and really only intended to take lessons for 6 months, that was almost 5 years ago. Ian tailors his lessons to the student’s own personal goals, music taste and skill level.
- Lauren Keizer | Google Reviews
Rockstar Teacher, Knowledgeable, Patient, and Fun
Ian MacMillan is rockstar of teacher! He is extremely knowledgeable, patient, understanding and always makes each lesson engaging and fun! Whether you’re a beginner or expert or looking to learn the foundations or just simply want to jam out, Ian customizes each lesson to your wants and needs. 10/10 recommended!
- Olivia Belliveau | Google Reviews
5. Zoe Leger Music Studio
Website: zoeleger.ca
Address: Vestry St
Contact: [email protected]
Hours: Contact for Availability
The Zoe Leger Music Studio focuses heavily on holistic practices and positive mentoring to tailor learning to each individual’s unique goals.
If you’re specifically searching for singing lessons in Halifax, this business offers professional arranging and studio production services alongside standard vocal coaching.
Singers can even receive specialized piano instruction designed specifically to help them accompany themselves.
Founder Zoe Leger directs the Atlantic Contemporary Vocal Institute, providing students access to high-level networking and advanced industry opportunities.
Her extensive background as a festival adjudicator also ensures students learn from a recognized industry expert.
Because of their popularity, prospective students seeking regular weekly instruction have to navigate a waitlist rather than booking immediately.
The specialized summer programs also have strict minimum age requirements of 16 and 18, limiting advanced training opportunities for younger children.
Customer Reviews
Inspirational Mentor for Expanding Singing Abilities
Zoe has been the director of a small singing ensemble that I have been a part of for several years. She is a patient, highly knowledgeable teacher and mentor. She really inspires you to step outside of your comfort zone to expand your abilities as a singer. She is a wonderful teacher and director.
- Peggy Lugar | Google Reviews
