Private Lessons
Private instruction in: Brass, Guitar, Percussion, Strings, Voice and Woodwinds.
Our private lesson program offers 12 or 6 lessons either in-person or virtual (pending availability of instructors).
Students may select 30-minute, 45-minute or 1-hour lessons. All in-person lessons are offered at the University of South Carolina School of Music building and lesson times are arranged on an individual basis.
Private lessons are a great way to prepare for Region and All-State Band competitions!
- Junior Division - Middle School (6th-8th grade)
Clinic Division - High School (9th-10th grade)
Senior Division - High School (11-12th grade)
Students preparing for these auditions work on scales, musical terms, sight-reading, and a prepared étude specific to that year. Fall preparation is ideal as these auditions typically take place in January.
Register for Private Lessons Now!
Group Classes
Music is a powerful and fun communal activity! CMS offers a variety of group learning opportunities. To learn more about our classes including detailed information regarding curriculum and cost, see below.
12-week class available for middle and high school students with at least 1 year of playing experience, and younger students who can demonstrate an equivalent playing level. Participation in a school band program and/or private lesson instruction, is encouraged but not required.
- Date/time TBD; classes begin in September
- Cost: $160
Directed by USC Composition professor Dr. Fang Man, this is a 10-week innovative program for young composers aged 9-13 to discover their unique musical voice. In an era where AI technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, creativity has become more essential than ever, serving as the key to unlocking true innovation and personal expression. Combining traditional music education with modern technology, the club fosters creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Through hands-on projects and interactive workshops, students will explore various musical genres and develop their own personal style in a fun and supportive environment. Join us for creative exploration, where the future of music composition meets the limitless imagination of young minds.
- TBD Spring 2026
- Classes begin January 2026
- Cost: $375
Fall 2025
LESSON DATES: Begin as early as August 15 and end December 13
REGISTRATION DEADLINES: September 8 for 12-lesson packages and October 20 for 6-lesson packages
RECITAL: December 13, 2025
A signed waiver must be on file for each participant. A link to access the waiver will be sent via email upon receipt of registration. This waiver must be signed by the participant (or legal guardian if under 18) prior to the first lesson. You may receive the link in advance of registering by contacting cms@mozart.sc.edu.
Twelve 30-minute lessons: $340/$325*
Twelve 45-minute lessons: $482/$467*
Twelve 60-minute lessons: $615/$600*
Six 30-minute lessons: $175/$160*
Six 45-minute lessons: $252/$237*
Six 60-minute lessons: $335/$320*
*family/senior citizen/military/USC faculty or staff discount
A family discount is offered when more than one member of a family is enrolled in lessons or if a student is enrolled in more than one program of study through the CMS. USC faculty/staff, active military and senior discounts are also offered.
Tuition can be paid in two installments for the 12-lesson options and is available at registration. Please email cms@mozart.sc.edu for more information.
Dates for those paying in two installments are:
1. Prior to the first lesson
2. October 20 or before the 7th lesson
Carolina Music Students parents and students receive weekly lesson/class reports detailing progress and recommendations from their teachers.
At the end of each semester (fall and spring) students have the opportunity to prepare for and perform at recitals as a celebration of their accomplishments during the year. Students perform at the discretion of their teacher. CMS will also offer repertoire and audition classes in the summer months.
Fall 2025 Recitals - Saturday, December 13, 2025
Tuition is due before lessons can begin. Discounts are offered for families with more than one member enrolled in lessons and classes through CMS; senior citizens; active military; and USC faculty and staff. ($60 maximum discount per family for all CMS programs.)
A limited amount of financial aid is available. Awards are made as soon as possible after applications are submitted and until funds are depleted. Submit the financial aid form with your application for consideration.