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It doesn’t take fancy, expensive lessons to turn into a musician. Artists including Paul McCartney and Elton John were self-taught, meaning with a little time and dedication, you or the aspiring musician in your life can start strumming along to favorite songs — or maybe even write some originals.
No matter what skill level or goal they have, there are online music lesson sites that can teach anyone how to play the guitar, piano, drums and more, making arguably the best gift for musicians, music lovers and singers looking to expand their skill set. They don’t even have to leave their house either! It’s done completely online from the comfort of their own space.
And with Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, shipping deadlines can be risky if you’re trying to find a last-minute gift that’s not flowers or chocolate delivery gifts. Subscription gifts like online music lessons are a thoughtful gift that doesn’t require shipping.
Regardless of your budget or preference, we scoured the Internet to see what was offered and compiled a list of the best online piano and guitar lessons. These sites aren’t just limited to piano and guitar either; most of them teach a variety of skills and instruments. So once they master one instrument, your loved one can just move on to the next.
Take a look below to see our list of the best online music lessons to get them twinkling those keys or strumming chords at their own pace.
Best Online Music Lessons
Udemy
Act fast! Right now, Udemy is offering classes for as low as $14.99. With some classes costing $60, that means you can score over 70% off with this limited promo!
The deal ends Monday night (Feb. 11), which means you don’t want to sleep on it. Classes are taught from experts around the world, with one even claiming to teach guitar in just 21 days — and they aren’t limited to instruments. They can also learn photography, marketing, business and more.
MasterClass
MasterClass has garnered attention for its library of classes taught by notable experts, including electric guitar lessons from Rage Against the Machine‘s Tom Morello, jazz piano teachings by Herbie Hancock and even vocal lessons from Christina Aguilera. Right now, you can take advantage of their two-for-one membership promo that’ll give your recipient and you the opportunity to try the platform out for just the cost of one person.
There are three plans for MasterClass, with the individual one being $10/month, which gives access to a library of over 180 classes. There’s also a duo plan for $15/month that allows use on up to two devices on one account and a family plan for $20/month, where that allows it to be used on six devices on one account.
Skillshare
Skillshare is a membership-based learning platform that offers more than 27,000 classes (including around 2,000 free options) whether you’re looking to pick up an instrument or a cooking utensil.
Currently, you can get 30 days free before paying as low as $32/month (which equates to around $168/year).
Coursera
For those looking to get educated at the university level, Coursera Plus has over 5,800 courses, professional certificates and degrees from universities and companies. New users can enjoy a seven day free trial when they sign up for a Plus membership. Once the trial is over, you’ll be charged the normal membership fee of $59/month.
Classes include guitar basics and music theory for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the art. You can join for free — though the free membership has a limited library, whereas Coursera Plus will provide unlimited access.
ArtistWorks
ArtistWorks is having a Valentine’s deal with up to $100 off any of 12 month plan as well as access to the platform’s “Basics of Home Recording” course for free when you use the code LOVE12 at checkout.
Through the membership, they’ll receive step-by-step lesson paths, personalized feedback, play-along tracks and more, with teachings by Grammy-nominated rock guitarist Paul Gilbert, renowned pianist Christie Peery and many others. Plans are based on a 3-month, 6-month and 12-month subscription.
Simply
With Simply you can get singing, piano or guitar lessons through the brand’s apps. Its technology will listen to live playing and provide practically instant feedback to help you or your loved one grow and master new skills. Within the app is a library of current and old school music to customize your experience with. While it’s free to download the app, you can gift your loved one with a three or 12 month subscription starting at $75, which will allow them to take full advantage of the app and its offerings.
To send a gift card, choose between the different apps, then scroll to the bottom and click “Buy as a Gift” to get started.
For more music-related product recommendations, check out our roundups of the best record players and turntables, vinyl record player accessories and the best speakers.