What types of lessons do you offer?

We offer individual, semi-private, and group lessons for all ages, skill levels, and musical interests. Individual lessons are one-on-one with your teacher. Semi-private lessons include 2–3 students of similar skill level with one teacher, and group lessons typically have 5–12 students (with additional teachers for large groups). We also offer performance band programs, summer camps, adult programs, and specialized lessons in songwriting, studio engineering, producing, and band management.

How long are lessons and how often do they happen?

Lessons are available in 30, 45, or 60-minute weekly sessions. Weekly lessons help students build skills consistently, keep momentum, and stay excited to learn.

Can students choose their own songs?

Absolutely! We encourage it. Our custom song-based curriculum is built around the music that inspires our students individually. Riff Music School students learn the songs they already know and love, making practice something they want to do, not something they have to do.

What instruments can I learn at Riff?

We teach guitar, bass, drums, piano, vocals, ukulele, mandolin, banjo, brass, woodwind, violin, cello, and viola. Plus, students can explore lessons in songwriting, producing, and band management. If you’re unsure which instrument to start with, [click here to take our “What Instrument Should I Start Learning?” quiz].

What are the minimum and maximum ages for lessons?

We welcome young students starting at age 5 for piano, voice, violin, drums, and ukulele, and age 6 for most other instruments. If your child is younger but already showing a spark for music, we’ll partner with you to find the right path forward. Riff is an accommodating, student-first program with a flexible starting age. We are a welcoming music school with a unique custom curriculum designed to adapt for students with special needs. At Riff Music School, we are open to anyone ready to learn. There’s no upper age limit here — whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, you’re always welcome.

How do I book lessons?

You can [click here to book online] (available up to 14 days in advance), call/text our Lessons Admin team‪ (720) 446-6607‬ , or send us an email at riff@riffmusicschool.com for same day booking or for additional questions.

Do you offer trial lessons?

Yes! Trial lessons are a great way to meet a teacher, explore the space, and see how our program works. [Click here to schedule your trial lesson] or contact us by phone/text ‪(720) 446-6607‬,  or email at riff@riffmusicschool.com . After the trial, we’ll help you select the perfect teacher, day, and time — no pressure, just friendly support.

Can I change my lesson time if my schedule changes?

Of course! we know life happens. While we aim for consistent weekly times for teacher scheduling, we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs. We require 24 hour notice for rescheduling.

What’s your refund or make-up lesson policy?

We know life can get busy, and sometimes you can’t make a lesson. Our flexible rescheduling and make-up policy is designed to keep students progressing without missing a beat. We’ll work with you to find a new time so learning stays fun, consistent, and on track. If that doesn’t work, we can discuss other options to meet your needs as much as possible.

How often will my child (or I) get to perform?

Individual lesson students perform in recitals 1–2 times per year. All students are invited to our annual large-scale, program-wide charity concert at a professional venue with staging, lighting, and sound. Band program students play live gigs often throughout the year.

Do students get to record their music?

Yes! Recording is built into our programs for individual lesson students, semi private lesson students, and bands. Students receive their recordings to share with family and friends so everyone can celebrate their success. Camps often include recording opportunities too.

Do we need to own an instrument to start lessons?

Not at all. We have demo instruments available for beginners to use in lessons. However, we recommend owning your own so you can practice at home and see faster progress. If you’re not sure what to get, we’ll help you choose the right fit — or [click here to take our “What Instrument Should I Start Learning?” quiz]. 

What equipment does Riff provide for lessons? And, what do I need to bring?

We provide pianos, drum sets, amplifiers, cables, inspirational teachers, a comfortable environment, and all professional recording equipment. Students are suggested to bring their own guitars, basses, ukuleles, harmonicas, banjos, mandolins, orchestral instruments,  brass instruments, and woodwind instruments. While not required, students are welcome to bring their own additional gear, including amps and pedals.

Are your teachers background-checked?

Yes, absolutely. Every teacher at Riff Music School is background-checked. Additionally, all lesson spaces have glass doors and/or windows, and have high definition cameras recording 24/7 in every teaching space. A live video feed of each lesson runs to a viewing monitor in our waiting area so parents can watch the progress in real-time.

What is your teaching style?

Our teachers are chosen for their energy, connection skills, and ability to inspire. Some are seasoned educators, others are younger working musicians, but all are passionate about meeting students where they are and helping them thrive.

Do summer camps require previous experience?

Not at all! Complete beginners are welcome for most camps (advanced camps are for experienced players). We also offer adult camps, which are fun, social, and a chance to live a week in the life of a rock star!

What’s included in summer camps?

Depending on the camp, students may perform at the end of the week, record in the studio, or both. Camps are usually weeklong and run in June and July. Additional camps may be available throughout the year. Read more about our camp sessions and dates on our [camps page].

Do you offer lessons just for adults?

Yes! We welcome adult beginners and returning players alike for adult individual lessons, adult band programs, and adult camps. Our adult programs are designed to be fun, motivating, and flexible for busy schedules. Read more about our lessons , our adult bands, and our adult camps. 

Will I be grouped with people my own age?

Yes. In our band programs, adult students are grouped with other adults at similar skill levels. You’ll meet new friends, play the music you love, record in our professional studio, and get the thrill of performing live.

Can you work with my schedule?

We know adults juggle work, family, and life. We offer flexible rescheduling (with 24 hours’ notice) and alternative learning options to keep your progress on track.

I haven’t played in years. Is it too late to start again?

Not at all! Trust us, there’s no such thing as “too old.” In fact, learning an instrument at an older age can significantly help maintain brain and body function at older ages. Many of our adult students are returning to their instruments after years away, while others are finally checking off a long-awaited bucket list dream. We’ll help you shake off the rust, rebuild your confidence, and rediscover why you loved music in the first place.

How is Riff’s approach different from traditional music schools?

We put the spotlight on the music that makes our students light up, adapting each lesson to feature their favorite songs, not the outdated tunes and mind-numbing drills you might remember from childhood. With studio recording sessions woven into the program, frequent performance opportunities, and exciting milestones we celebrate together, learning stays fun, confidence soars, and students can’t wait to come back for more.

Do students learn alone or with others?

Both! While never required, we love seeing our students pair individual lessons with band experiences — because that’s where the magic really happens. Practicing solo sharpens skills, while playing together with your peers builds confidence, connection, and a deeper love for music. It’s also where students discover how individual instruments and sounds blend to create something bigger than themselves. Our bands learn a full set list, write their own music, perform at real gigs, and record in our professional studio. This gives our students the thrill of being part of something unforgettable. Many Riff students take individual lessons to refine their skills and join bands to supercharge their progress; growing faster, building friendships, and having more fun than they ever thought possible.

How do I know if my child is making progress?

We measure progress through meaningful milestones — recitals, studio recordings, and live performances. Each time a student takes the stage, records a song, or moves forward in our custom curriculum, their confidence grows. Trust us, you’ll see (and hear) the difference. These aren’t just milestones, they’re memories you’ll treasure for years to come.

What if a student gets discouraged or hits a plateau?

We’ve all been there. That’s why every student is paired with an encouraging teacher who adapts to their pace, mixes in new songs, and keeps things fresh and motivating. Like everything else in life, playing an instrument is a journey with different seasons. It’s perfectly normal to hit moments where interest dips. If you notice your child (or yourself) feeling less motivated, don’t worry! Every musician experiences this more than once in their life. Stay patient, keep encouraging, and let us be part of the conversation. Progress comes in waves, and we’re here to ride those waves right alongside you. If you have questions about how to best support your child’s musical journey during a season of less motivation, ask our admin team.

Is there a community or “Wall of Fame” for standout students?

Yes! We celebrate our students’ journeys whether it’s their first gig, a recorded track, or an encore at camp. Given parent approval, families and students are regularly featured on Riff Music School signage, on our social media, and in our end-of-season showcases. Parents always have full control over any student publicity.

Do you offer online lessons or virtual programs?

While we specialize in in-person learning, where energy, connection, and live performance make the biggest impact, we also understand that virtual lessons can be a convenient option when getting here in person isn’t possible. Our teachers are experienced in both in-person and online instruction, ensuring students get the same engaging, high-quality experience either way. [Contact us today] to learn how virtual lessons can seamlessly become part of your musical journey.

What if a program is full—do you have waitlists?

Yes! Popular lessons, bands, and camps can fill quickly. We encourage booking early, but if a spot is full, our admin team will promptly let you know when availability opens. [Contact us today] (include the inquiry form) for current availability.

What happens during school breaks or holidays?

Lessons continue according to your regular schedule unless we are officially closed for a holiday. We close for Thanksgiving Break, Christmas and New Year’s Break, the 4th of July, and other observed holidays such as Memorial Day, Labor Day, Juneteenth, and Mother’s Day. Additional holiday closures may take place. School closings are always communicated to students and families ahead of time. Depending on the number of lessons in the month, we’ll work with you to reschedule, provide a credit or refund, or arrange a make-up lesson based on our flexible policy.