The 5 best music schools in Glasgow for beginners, kids, adults, and pros
Always wanted to learn how to play the guitar? Have a kid already showing potential at age 3? Currently performing at small venues and want to take things up a notch?
Whatever your goal with music is, enrolling at the right music school in Glasgow can be a life-changing decision. With experts, you can learn the foundations while building real-world skills that can turn you into a rockstar.
Each one of these skills was chosen for its comprehensive programs. You’ll find options that are perfect for beginners, for professionals, and those that can manage both.
Discover what our interviews and searches revealed.
How much are music school fees in Glasgow?
Music school fees in Glasgow range from £25 to £30 for a 30-minute lesson. For comprehensive courses, pre-junior courses start at £1,480. Postgraduate fees range from £10,000 to £30,000 for a full-time course.
1. Guru Music School
Location: Cabinet Making Workshop, Abercromby Business Centre, 279 Abercromby St, Bridgeton, Glasgow G40 2DD
Contact: +44 7466 615468
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
What stood out immediately about Guru Music School is its focus on vocal development. They emphasise consistent weekly training, making them a great choice for students who prefer long-term learning over one-off music lessons in Glasgow.
One of the things we liked was their structured membership system. At £95 per month, we find it relatively more affordable than other schools. This includes up to 4 small-group singing lessons each month.
We liked how comprehensive the teaching is, covering pitch training, breath control, and tone development.
On top of that, there’s also a personalised coaching option. This includes 6 coached sessions per month, including 2 one-on-one singing lessons and 4 group sessions.
We find this a great option for those who want a balance of personalisation and socialisation.
Free trial lessons are available for newcomers.
However, one student reported that the studio was unavailable on the day he booked a lesson. It was an isolated case that didn’t occur again.
Incredibly supportive and comfortable
“I had my first singing lesson, and it was a fantastic experience! The instructors were incredibly supportive and made me feel comfortable right away. They helped build my confidence while also focusing on technique, giving me practical exercises that made an immediate difference. I left the lesson feeling inspired and excited to continue improving. Highly recommend!”
Christopher Fox | Google Review
Puts you at ease
“I am nearing the end of my 1st block of 12 sessions at Guru Music Studios with Mick. I and those around me have noticed an incredible difference in my singing. Given that I’ve been a singer in a band for most of my life , this is amazing. Wish I’d done this sooner. I would highly recommend guru to anyone just beginning or wanting to improve their vocal abilities. I’m definitely going to continue in 2025. Mick is an amazing teacher and puts you at ease within minutes. I really look forward to my lessons.”
James Hillis | Google Review
2. Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Location: 100 Renfrew St, Glasgow G2 3DB
Contact: +44 141 332 4101
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM, Saturday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Sunday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS) is one of the most prestigious music and performing arts institutions in Glasgow. They offer a multidisciplinary environment, where students can study music, drama, dance, and more.
One of the strongest aspects is the quality of teaching and professional mentorship. The school employs more than 1,000 lecturers, tutors, and artists.
Each one is an accomplished performer and industry professional. This ensures students learn a technical foundation and real-world creative insights.
The campus facilities and performance spaces also earned our favour. RCS has 5 performance venues, rehearsal studios, and recording facilities.
The venues host over 500 performances each year. For students, this means the possibility of gaining consistent stage experiences. This also gives the public a chance to see live music.
The range of programs is comprehensive. Students can come here for undergraduate degrees, postgraduate programs, and short courses.
Options are great for aspiring professionals and hobbyists.
That said, the admission process is rigid, and the strict approach can feel intimidating for some students.
Great teachers and fantastic resources
“Great place for learning all things musical and theatre. Great teachers and fa.tastic resources”
Alastair Rennie | Google Review
Makes classes fun
“Absolutely love the classes for kids here, amazing teachers that make it fun and quality. And the one to one piano is excellent”
Lynn Macdonald | Google Review
3. Bishopbriggs School of Music
Location: 41/42, 102 Crowhill Rd, Bishopbriggs, Glasgow G64 1RP
Contact: +44 141 772 4333
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Bishopbriggs offers music education for students of all ages. We find them a strong option for beginners, children, and adults who want to develop at their own pace.
Their biggest strength is that structured one-on-one lesson format. Lessons are offered as 30-minute private sessions, booked in blocks of lessons.
At £70, this is an affordable program that’s easy to schedule for regular learning.
BSM also offers a wide variety of instruments and disciplines. Students can take lessons in guitar, drums, and many other instruments.
The school’s curriculum follows RSL and Rockschool Classics. What’s great is that they also offer ABRSM and Trinity exam preparation upon request. This is a great option for students pursuing formal music qualifications.
We also liked the student-friendly facilities and community features. There’s free parking for visitors and a community waiting room with complimentary tea and coffee.
However, we noticed during one of our visits that the studio can be a bit loud. It may be frustrating for other students doing lessons on a busy day.
Fun, encouraging, and inspiring
“My 2 kids (8 and 6) started guitar and ukelele lessons with Ryan at BSM in January this year and are really enjoying it. He’s fun, encouraging and inspiring. Thanks very much!”
Fiona Easton | Google Review
Relaxed atmosphere and very welcoming
“Looking forward to going back on Tuesday. Really relaxed atmosphere and very welcoming. Making me feel a bit more confident in myself 😊😊 …”
Sharron Leese | Google Review
4. First Chord Music School
Location: 33 Otago St, Glasgow G12 8JJ
Contact: +44 7809 442272
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
We liked First Chord for the range of lessons they offer. Rather than following a rigid curriculum, they blend music theory, technical training, and practical playing in lessons.
This makes the approach flexible and fun. Beginners and experienced players can develop skills while still learning songs they enjoy.
We love the quality and experience of the teaching staff. Their team features a team of professional musicians. Many of them have extensive performance backgrounds and touring experience.
In line with this, they place a strong emphasis on personalised learning and creativity. Lessons include songwriting, improvisation, and technique development.
We favour this approach as it allows students to become more complete musicians.
Another highlight is that the school frequently organises recitals, annual music shows, and group events. The Ukulele Orchestra nights are especially popular as it brings together players of different skill levels.
Lessons can be difficult to book at times, and rates aren’t readily available at all times. Inquiring in advance is advised.
Innovative and excellent
“First Chord is eveything you want in music tuition for your child. Thoughtful well planned lessons, excellent communication, safe respectful space, community building, innovative and considerate.”
Chelsea | Google Review
Warm and inclusive music school
“Fabulous music school for all of the family. Members of our family have attended First Chord for many years. It’s a warm and inclusive music school that meets the students where they are in their música journey.”
Maisie Chan | Google Review
5. Riverside Music College
Location: 28 Field Rd, Busby, Glasgow G76 8SE
Contact: +44 141 644 5571
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Riverside Music College is one of the best options for the Higher National Diploma (HND) framework. This option is designed to prepare students for professional roles in the music industry.
The range of specialisation is impressive. Students can learn Audio Engineering, Electronic Music Production, Composition, and more.
With the programs, we find them a strong choice for practical, industry-oriented training rather than purely theoretical education.
One of the most impressive features is their state-of-the-art production facilities. They have Riverside Studios, a commercial production studio where students can gain hands-on experience.
We also appreciate the college’s industry pathway opportunities. Students who complete the HND program can gain direct access to the BA Popular Music degree in partnership with UHI Perth.
The quality of learning is also top-notch. Students said that tutors were friendly, patient, and encouraging.
On the downside, a few pointed out that some advanced topics may not be covered as deeply as expected. However, this is an isolated complaint that only came up to us once.
Fantastic all around
“I was in the area so popped in to enquire about the studio…I was greeted by warm friendly staff then took on a tour made to feel very welcome. HIGHLY recommended especially for those looking to learn..seems like a very special place. FANTASTIC all round 🙂 …”
Scott S | Google Review
Very encouraging approach
“My daughter has been going for several years for guitar lessons and I have started bass lessons too. Same teacher, Michael. I cannot rate him highly enough. Patient, talented, caring. We both look forward to our lessons every week with Michael. My daughter has rocketed through the exams. Me less so 😉. Totally and utterly recommended. They also do a band session at the weekend where young people can get together to play with tutors helping out. Jamie who is the head of tuition is there and he is such a lovely guy who is very encouraging to all the students.”
David Henery | Google Review