I was looking up YMC online for the calendar and Yelp site came up second on the list. I was amused by the rating so I read all the reviews and felt compelled to write my own. I sent my 2 kids (now 15 and 11) to YMC for over 6 years. First of all, the parents must expect to be part of the system in order for it to work, at least for several years. If the plan is to drop a 4-year-old kid off once a week and expect the kid to come home practice, unleash his/her undying love for music, while cannot wait to boast to your friends and family that your child is a musician, you are kidding yourself. The group lesson is a little over $100 for about 4 lessons a month, I doubt a private tutor goes for less than that, or an hour a week is close to sufficient.... For us, group lessons for the kids at the beginning worked out well. You and your child get to find out if you are up for more serious commitment later. The class setting gives kids a chance to learn with their peers. You know if your child is ahead/behind and you work with your child. YOU get to learn the same time as your children, so you can reinforce what's taught, at least at the beginning. Consider you are paying for 1 and get 1 free. The start is going to be slow. Learning music is not easy. If I pay for private lesson instead I would most likely not be invited to listen in and unable to assist with the child's progress. Yamaha trains through what they consider the correct way, where kids tend to like to play by ears, they learn to read the music scores, study music theory (yikes to some), and it is not necessarily easy or fun for most. Looking back, if you wonder if it's too early to put the kid in piano at age 4 or 5, my daughter is able to achieve more than my son at her age, despite they are 4 years apart. Even though my son is playing more difficult pieces, as he's older, with more strength and longer hand reach, she progressed faster and completed the same level tests as him. Now that my son is in high school, his school work load and his other interests make it much harder to commit to playing piano. If you are to push your child to play an instrument, 4-14 is likely the period they can be pushed as they have the free time to do so, AND before the teenager weirdness kicks in. So while a child could barely play a simple Christmas song after a year in group lesson, ability to play fluently at intermediate level (like learning to speak) comes after the second year for mine. Practice at home is so important. I sat with my kids at least a couple times a week for years, plus they were expected to practice on their own for 2 times. I stopped sitting down with them last year, for at some point in time kids should learn to 'take care of their own chores/practices' especially they have all the tools to succeed on their own without their parents. Our teacher, Ms. Ana, is very nice, talented and works very hard. She has a lot on her plate, so it comes down to us the parents to help the kids with organizing - because guess what - my kids have poor organization skills, and it's nobody but the parents' job to teach and preach, even if it frustrates me to no end why they are so difficult to teach :) Over the years, under Ms. Ana, my kids had played many difficult pieces and composed several, and even though they did not earn them first prizes, and the push at home was tiresome, it's a proud accomplishment and memory for us looking back - and I have plenty of concert videos to look back to. Last week we went to a relative's home for Thanksgiving lunch; they had a piano and my kids went and played without being told. That, to me, is the true accomplishment - they love playing music, and one true gift a parent can give to a child, a skill to play a music instrument that lasts a lifetime. For those who find their teachers with accent they cannot understand, I could only suggest you speak with the front desk and ask for a different time slot for another teacher; speak with them in person before committing perhaps. For the director, we don't interact with her much, but she has always been courteous to us. To put things in perspective, she does not play a part in the child's learning experience, I would not rate the school poorly because of a poor interacting experience between the adults, but that's just me. In summary, playing music, like sports, is not for everyone; it's totally understandable, and most kids are not born self-motivated geniuses. I want my kids to learn how to play piano good, and the Yamaha system works for my kids, Ms. Ana is patient and kind, and I'm sure my kids' classmates and their parents will agree to that. The group lesson supposedly ended after the 6th year; the kids actually love the class so much they wish to continue, and Ms. Ana is providing them new ensemble pieces to play. That is where my 5 star is based on, from 6 years of experience with the school. read more

Very disappointing experience. After realizing the program wasn't a good fit for my 5-year-old, I requested a refund. Instead of a simple resolution, I dealt with weeks of delays, poor communication, and an unfair outcome. The customer service was far more disappointing than the financial loss. Parents should be aware that if you need to withdraw, don't expect a prompt or customer-friendly resolution. read more

Best place for children's music education by far. All the teachers are professional, compassionate, knowledgeable, supportive, attentive and highly qualified. My kids have had a few teachers and they're all amazing. The staff and director are equally great and they have my complete respect and trust. We also appreciate how they provide opportunities for solo and ensemble performances as well as competitions. Their curriculum and programs are designed to train children to obtain adequate skills to become professional musicians. read more

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My daughter has been receiving piano education at Yamaha in Irvine since she was 6 years old. She has been studying piano at Yamaha for more than 3 years now. Through systematic and detailed study here, the teacher led my daughter to participate in many piano performances and taught her how to calmly express her elegance in public. She can demonstrated her understanding and love for art. My family and I are so proud of her. There is a great learning atmosphere, a humble teaching style, and tuition fees that are below the market. We like Yamaha, as well as the teaching teachers and front desk teachers here. If you want your children to get cost-effective music and art learning, I recommend Irvine Yamaha to you guys. read more

Yamaha Music School - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Irvine, California

My experience with Yamaha has been excellence! My son has been in this school for 6 years now. Starting with group lessons and eventually switch to private lessons when he realize that he wants to take piano more seriously. Yamaha in my opinion is very good beause they focus on ear training! Students learn to sing and play in solfege, chords, and eventually composition. What is impressive is that they emphasize on enjoyment in music and not forcing you to take CM exam for personal achievement early on. I like my son's teacher alot, her name is Grace Hsu. Also, if you decide to take the CM exam, they know how to prepare you for it. Just don't hesitate to ask them, keep the communication open early on. read more

I've been at Yamaha since I was 4 years old and I attended JMC classes. I think Yamaha inspired my passion in music and also built up a solid foundation so I could branch out to different instruments too. I highly recommend Yamaha Music Center for anyone interested in music. Their classes are perfect for both children and adults and for musicians of all levels. read more

My children took music lessons with the Yamaha Music School of Irvine for a total of 17 years. Both of them started with group piano lessons and one switched over to voice lessons. The Yamaha school has many talented, creative, and patient teachers working there- One teacher was so versatile in teaching many instruments like saxophone, flute, voice and keyboard. Group lessons for younger kids require parents to sit with them so they can review the material with their children so sometimes, children younger than 5 years old cannot sit still for an hour. I had experience with that and just paused the music lessons until my child was ready to continue again. Going to private lessons was better than the group lessons if your child has the desire and aptitude for music because they can learn at a faster pace than with group lessons. I can definitely say that the Yamaha Music School at Irvine has helped my children not only learn to play music, but helped improve their creativity, have confidence in themselves when speaking, and improved other academic skills like math. read more

Highly recommend piano school, they offer qualified lessons at affordable price. The teachers are very awesome, energetic, super nice.

Worst experience I had in this institute. You can't ask any question here, you can't raise your voice against unfair stuffs. According to them that is not respectful. But they can do anything as they wish. They don't understand what you are saying. read more

I've been a student at the Yamaha Music School of Irvine for 11 years now, and have been playing piano since I was 4 years old. I've taken both group classes and private lessons, and I'm proud to say that the music teachers have trained me up to become a more dedicated and musically talented student. Through the Yamaha program, I've gained more confidence performing on stage many times, competing in competitions, and even composing my very own composition at an early age. Furthermore, the staff are both respectful and willing to make sure your experience at Irvine Yamaha School is positive and productive. Highly highly recommend anybody interested in learning a new instrument or strengthening and polishing their skill to attend both group and private lessons at the Yamaha Music School of Irvine. read more

Great place to learn piano at all levels. My child has been taking lessons for over 2 years and she has improved so much with her piano skills. Not to mention she is gaining confidence each class! Ms Ana is such an excellent teacher. She is efficient, patient, and makes class a fun experience! read more

Ms. May is a wonderful piano teacher. My child is a little older and at a beginner/intermediate level, and has been taking private lessons with her for the past 2 years. He learns at a slower speed but she is always patient and caring with him. He struggles a little more than the average student but she finds ways to help the learning be more fun, such as finding songs/books/genres that interest him more. She praises him on each small milestone that he accomplishes. She is the sweetest person and very encouraging and kind regardless of a student's skill level. read more

My son's trumpet is great! Mr. Ron is very patient and he makes the lesson interesting and engaging. My son really enjoys his lesson and we have been taking lesson with him for three years! read more

We've been with Yamaha Music School in Irvine for two years since moving from the Bay Area, and the experience has been outstanding. My two daughters take piano, clarinet, and violin lessons with Ms. Ana, Ms. Wendy, Mr. Rod, and Mr. Dmitriy, who are all knowledgeable, patient, and excellent communicators. The teachers create a supportive and structured environment that keeps my kids engaged and growing in their musical abilities. I feel completely confident that my daughters are in good hands, and I highly recommend Yamaha to anyone looking for quality music education. read more

Yamaha Music Center is a great school. The staff is friendly and I appreciate Ms. Julianne's lessons! She's very accommodating and has taught me much in my time attending! read more

This school is amazing. Teachers are kind, knowledgeable, very dedicated and super patient with children. They even perform for students and parents in their annual Christmas recital. This school is by far, having the most talented teachers at the best affordable tuition that we found. Highly recommended piano school. read more

Have had a fantastic experience introducing my daughter to music and piano. Appreciate the focus on singing and ear training so early on - staff and teachers truly care about instilling a love for music. Ms. Ana is incredible - and appreciate the whole staff! read more

Mrs. Ana is such an amazing teacher. We have our two kids learn piano with her and both of the boys improved a lot. Thank you

My 11-year-old daughter just started taking piano lessons from Yamaha Music Center a few months ago and so far she is progressing very well. Ms. Julianne, her teacher, did an amazing job. She is very energetic and have been with Yamaha for over 22 years and is very experienced working with kids. Ms. Julianne is very patience and always puts a smile on her face when my daughter shows up to her class. My daughter loves her teaching so much and is always looking forward to her next lesson every week. She always encourages my daughter to practice at home and always find ways to motivate my daughter. I highly recommend Yamaha Music Center because of their exceptional service. read more

This is only for the review for our trial class, the director gets mad if you have any requests or don't sign up at the trial class. Half of the student 4 years old in the trial wasn't even ready to focus, some little one is even crying wanted to leave, some not able to sit still to learn, most of time just the teacher trying to calm the students and got distracted to teach. I won't even to bother to waste money on this class, rather just wait for my kid to join a older class who is ready to learn. The center looks nice and big have a couple classes in the back office and upper level. First impression for the teacher was fine for my kid, just wish they can separate 5 year-old to older class not mixing with preschool age kid. read more

My children have enrolled in Yamaha Music Center Piano program as early as they are able to enroll. I cannot give enough emphasis on this amazing program and the structure it gives the babies. It is a full hour and teaches music in such a pressure free environment that helps children as young as mine, 4-9 year old be able to play beautifully before they were able to even read. Honestly with the busy lifestyle, we are not the best to "practice" all the time every day, so much of their accomplishments comes directly from the active participation of their class lessons. They love making and creating music. My three babies all started to developed the listening for perfect pitch about 6 months in. And certainly by the time they finished the first two years attained perfect pitch. Being able to actively participate and involved in every class really has transformed the relationship with my children and music. It's not a typical boring class. It is making memories with them and learning along side. Although I have to say kids pick everything up faster and my oldest who started at 4 years old and now is 9 years old has theory and playing abilities that will take me years to even catch up . Honestly I highly recommend this special curriculum, that you will not find anywhere else as it is their special program to really create musical prodigies. Music has really become second nature for my babies. They enjoy it on a whole other level. Everyone really strive hard to make the best for the children to thrive here. read more

I took beginner piano classes with Twee and she's extremely sweet and smart. I learned a lot from my lessons with her and definitely recommend taking classes with her if you're interested in learning to play an instrument. Shes extremely smart and her way of teaching has helped me understand the instrument a lot better. read more

My daughter takes piano lessons from Yamaha music center, Irvine since she was in kindergarten. She started with the group lessons and eventually she is taking private lesson from the same teacher she started with in kindergarten. I cannot praise the teacher enough, she is very awesome, talented and hard working. With her firm and caring approach, my daughter enjoys playing piano and not once has she told us that she wants to quit playing. She is very accommodating and pushes my daughter to perform her best. She constantly keeps my daughter motivating and challenges her with different musical pieces. She also encourages her to participate in piano competitions, and never discourages no matter what the outcome is. My daughter is making an amazing progress and is flourishing under her guidance. She is always in touch with us and gives the updates as how the child is doing. We couldn't ask for more. The front desk staff is also very nice and friendly. We are glad that we joined Yamaha music school and would definitely recommend our teacher and school to family and friends. read more

I have 2 kids with Miss Satomi since they are 5 years old and I am very satisfied with the results. She is very patient with kids and trying to pass as much skill set and knowledge as possible. And it is not just about how to play piano but about music history as well. I would recommend this place to my friends especially for family with young kids. read more

Kind of old fashioned but it gives good foundation I think. Slow process but affordable.

Your experience depends on who you deal with. Ms Ana is an excellent piano teacher. She knows how to keep the little kids music lesson fun. She uses simple ways to train little kids listening, playing and also their finger position. Can't say enough how good Ms Ana is. School administration has been improved. Make sure to keep your receipt for each your payment. Overall, Yamaha is a good music school. read more

Pulling my son out of music lessons. 5 months and he barely knows anything. The class structure is difficult because it has too many students and parents in one room. Gets messy a lot of times. Teacher is very nice however hasn't dealt with younger kids for s long time. Like all the other reviews. The director/owner is horrible to deal with and only cares about payments being made on time. She needs to read some of these reviews and understand why people are leaving. Also way over priced for what the outcome is. Several other schools closer and better. I do live in Irvine. And this is the correct school. I was on a layover in Virginia when I got the Yelp app and it tagged me as a Virginian. But I am from Irvine California. read more

I totally agree with the other reviewers. I like the teachers there.( Some teachers have strict manners toward children.) The dirctor( owner) is VERY rude and manipulative. You really DO not want to deal with her. The course content is interesting to little children, yet the setting of the class is very hard for the little ones to work as a group. (Obviously under 5 yrs old's attention span is not last One hour.) You(parents) are the one making sure your child follow the class. Parents must seat through the whole class with you child, but it's not like a fun type of "parents & me" class. You'll be there to WATCH and PUSH them. If your child is over 5 yrs old, I highly recommend you consider a private lesson.The group class setting is just not worth the money. read more

Yamaha Music Center is a venue that hosts events and also hosts private, group, and public music lessons. I attend Yamaha for weekly piano lessons. The venue itself is rather old and not as up-to-date as it could be; Yamaha is in the Woodbridge area of Irvine, which is the oldest community in the city, therefore everything is built in more of a traditional fashion. The venue is suitable for family-friendly occasions and small, casual, get-togethers. There is one somewhat large stage in the main hall which is conveniently stocked with one grand piano and a few miscellaneous organs. The audience itself can hold no more than 50-60 people, and even at the max it becomes stuffy and overcrowded. There is an adjacent room suitable for refreshments, however it lacks visual appeal and taste in decoration. I have studied under two piano teachers at Yamaha under the last 3 years. Both of them have done their job, albeit not to any extremes. My first teacher, whom I studied under for almost one and a half year, moved back to Asia without giving me any previous notice. She, although a decent teacher, did not communicate efficiently with me and hardly ever motivated me to practice my lessons. My second teacher is much more upbeat, friendly, warm, and inviting. She is engaging and encourages me to put my own creative spin on the songs I play. I appreciate this. Although she is definitely a more competent teacher in comparison to the first, I feel that she allows me to slack off and also does not provide as much motivation as she is capable of. I would recommend Yamaha for casual private lessons or very casual get-togethers. It is neither high-profile nor highy-regarded, however, in short notice, it is a pretty good option. read more

We have 3 kids that attend this school and we are incredibly happy with the level of attention that they receive. I have noticed other reviews that portray the school in a negative light. This is not the case at all. We have been a part of this school for at least 6 years and will continue to support this school because they are in our opinion The Best!! Thank you Kimiko and staff for all you do! The Tordera's read more

Mrs Elisa is an excellent teacher. My daughter goes for group piano classes here and I am extremely happy with her progress. My daughter has retained her interest and loves playing the piano. read more

Teachers are ok but management is awful.I always had a issue and they never try to solve it

My daughter started the young musicians class with Ms. Satomi when she was 5. She loves singing and playing the piano. She has been with the same class for 1.5 years. Every student has grown and improved so much since the first class. Ms. Satomi is a wonderful teacher. She uses positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. She stresses the importance of "feeling" the music in a way that little kids can understand. When my daughter practices at home, she tries to mimic the way Ms. Satomi plays the song (staccato, legato, forte...etc). It's amazing to see young kids learn not only how to read notes and the technique, but also musicality and rhythm. I've had a chance to attend other teachers' classes (when we have make up lessons). Each teacher has her own style but the students all seem to enjoy learning. The Yamaha Young Musicians Program is a fun and effective way to introduce your little ones to music and piano. read more

I will finally come out and say it. I hate this place. As an extremely frustrated parent to another, run!! Only good thing about it here is our teacher. Good luck when you have to talk to anyone else at the front. I have GOT to change our piano school before I actually end up in tears out of frustration. read more

If you have a young kid and you would like to start music for her, this is the place to go. I have started my daughters at their beginner courses. It was really fun for them and motivate them a lot. Nice and organized management. I highly recommended them. read more

I took private lessons at Yamaha music center in Irvine for 3 years with Ms Shoko. She is a wonderful teacher, I highly recommend her!

I send my children here for their musical education and am beyond satisfied with the results that I am seeing. The same lady, Miss Elisa Tseng, teaches my oldest child privately and my youngest child in a group setting. I adore this teacher.. I can't sing her praises enough. Miss Elisa is kind, patient, and very knowledgeable. My children are flourishing under her instruction. I believe in yamaha's teaching system. I see the results. I would never consider going elsewhere. I also find Paul at the front desk to be very efficient and nice. Send your kids here. You won't regret it. read more

My daughter has been going here for almost 8 months now learning piano. Their pace is perfect for her and the teachers work well with the kids to keep them engaged. I would definitely recommend them. The price is less than $90/mo for 1 hour per week, group classes. Affordable and if you miss a class they mail you the homework, I like that attention to detail. read more

I've just signed up to this school for my 5 year old. I have yet formed an opinion on the teaching. It seems goods from our introduction class and the teacher seems nice. However, the front office and owner is very greedy and rude. They do force you to sign up right after the orientation without giving you much time to think about, if you want a certain time of your choice. They require you to buy materials, such as music books and CDS, which is understandable for some items. However, they required us to buy their cheap ugly carrying bag, claiming that it was a part of the "uniform." The kids do not wear uniforms to the lessons. My cousin's kids go to the Yamaha school in Fountain Valley and said that they were not required to buy the bag. Subsequently, I found out their same materials are also more expensive than the Fountain Valley location. If it was not due to my lack of time to look into another location and not wanting to tell my overly excited daughter that we cannot start that day, I would have walked out of the door. I am definitely will not be signing up my second child at this school. I am sure there are other schools in Irvine who are just as good as they are or better but not as greedy. If you don't mind the drive, my cousin thinks that the Fountain Valley location is much better than the Irvine location. But if you decide to join this school, be prepared to leave your annoyance at the door before dealing with the front desk and the owner. read more

my kids took Trial lesson for 30mins lessons are 1hour but after 30mins they will charge me and my kids did not like teacher's talking. Teacher was not nice.. She has accents that I do not really understand sometimes. Little kid put magnet on mi but it was wrong so Teacher was telling everyone Are you kidding me? I was shocked what she told them. Director pushes too much to register. Yamaha in Japan is much better education than here. I wish my kids can take a lesson in Japan. This yamaha is just pretending..fake Japanese lesson. read more