Freo Guitar School has no age or skill limit. Kids, teens, adults, rookies, and even seasoned players fine-tune their skills here.

Style variety is another box they tick. Their teachers are capable of switching genres (e.g., pop, rock, and metal), though almost everyone starts with learning classical guitar.

Approach-wise, theirs is student-centric, chosen by the founder Ben. The guy has a DIPed degree, so going with that pedagogical model wasn’t a random decision.

That said, it’s not exactly “mates’ rates,” if you know what I mean. Hall-hour lessons alone kick off at $44, though you can lower costs by finding two other students.

Plus, Saturday classes are yet to be added. Some competitors already have that perk.

On the upside, they don’t mind doing online classes or sending out recorded videos in case something gets in the way, like sickness, for example.

Makes Learning Fun

My son has been loving his guitar lessons! The instructor is patient, engaging, and makes learning fun. Highly recommend!

Eva Eisenlohr, Google Review

Lovely People

Ben and Wolfe are both excellent teachers and lovely people. My son has made great progress since commencing with Wolfe this year. Ben has also taught my son by Skype and it worked seamlessly. The school is accommodating with illness and even provides videoed lessons if your child is sick. I highly recommend Freo guitar school.

Meredith Hodge, Google Review

Focus Music, no pun intended, is suitable for folks who truly want to focus on their craft. See, the school uses the Australian Music Examinations Board to guide its program, meaning the qualifications you’ll pick up are internationally recognised.

Of course, the downside is that it might be overkill for those who simply want to jam for fun. That rings even truer once you factor in the rates, with the popular half-hour session clocking at $39.50 (trial is $25).

Even so, Focus is worth the time and cash. The teachers are all musicians, the curriculum is personalised, and the aforementioned AMEB standards also count as entry-level requirements for Australian Tertiary Admission Ranks and some uni programs/courses.

Students even learn almost every genre or guitar type. Oh, and by “students” we mean all levels and age brackets.

To top it off, live concerts and recitals are held twice annually. You won’t just strum in a classroom.

Gentle Approach

Greg has been an amazing guitar teacher for my son in learning and developing his skills over 3 years. With a gentle approach and patience over the years my son has confidently performed to large audiences on at least 5 occasions at the biannual concerts. I would definitely recommend Focus Team to any parent entertaining the idea of their child learning an instrument. You will not regret it.

Annie L, Google Review

Adapts His Lessons

My daughter has been learning piano at the Kalamunda Music Academy for 1 year now and loves it. The piano teacher adapts his lessons to focus on the weaknesses of the student and lets her choose her own music but guides her towards pieces to improve her ability, ensuring her interest is always maintained. In April my daughter was asked to join the junior band as the keyboardist; this experience has reinforced her joy in music as they have a say in the modern songs they wish to play and she enjoys playing with the other four members of the band.

Kalamunda Music Academy have been professional, maintain a high level of communication, and create a relaxed atmosphere where my child has excelled. Daryl Eagle (The director of Programs) is lovely and an amazing musician himself who has a great rapport with the kids.

Teena Cagney, Google Review

As an ASME (Australian Society of Music Educators) member, Keyed Up Music’s teachers have completed (or are currently taking) music-related courses at an Australian University or Conservatorium. Beyond that, they undergo internal training.

We’d describe their programs as comprehensive. Sessions are designed to help students play, read, and write music.

Much like the last entry, though, it’s not for casual learners; the lessons aren’t easy and are often meant for long-term goals. The school was pretty clear about that when we phoned them.

Fees aren’t pocket change, either. Half-hour classes are around $39.50.

The good news is you’ll be less likely to worry about scheduling hitches. Classes are scheduled to suit a student’s needs, and Keyed Up has over 40 venues across Perth’s southern and northern suburbs (an indicator of quality, if you ask us).

Plus, you can rent instruments directly from the school before splashing out on a guitar right away (if you’re already committed to buying, these shops can help).

Amazing and Easy

I live in Cairns and did a DJ gig in Perth. I hired PA and lights from this company. I gave Nicholas a list of everything I needed. The service I received was amazing and easy. Everything I ordered was there and the price was amazing. Looking for PA hire make these guys your first priority. Thanks for making it so easy for me Nicholas,

Conrad Maybir, Google Review

Patient, Gentle

Keyed Up Music has been instrumental in shaping all my children’s music ability. 🎼 🎹 My daughter started learning piano in Year 2, she is a teenager now and has not lost the ability to read notes and play, which she continues to enjoy. Our 8-year-old son is currently learning guitar and absolutely loves it! Nick Dabbs is so patient, gentle and kind with the children. He has a special gift of engaging children of all ages. All the teachers are amazing and you will be blessed by their gifts and talents 🌟 I highly recommend the music lessons offered by Keyed Up Music. What’s more, they are very flexible and accommodating wherever needed. If you’re a parent or carer looking for a good place to start, grow, or advance your child’s musical ability, look no further than Keyed Up Music.

Liselle, Google Review

At School of Rock, students rock out instead of grinding on theories. We say that because the approach here is performance-first; you’ll get on-stage experience without waiting for months.

There are also several paths you can take, most of which are categorised and designed based on skill level. For example, rookies (mostly kids ages 6–7) are put in a class where they learn rhythm games and explore instruments freely.

Meanwhile, the Performance Program (their flagship) is about developing technical and essential skills (e.g., guitar playing and projection) through live, collaborative band work across different Perth venues.

In terms of weak spots, flexibility is one, considering their heavy emphasis on rock alone.

Costs can pile up, too, especially since you have to buy an electric guitar, pay for camps, and school rentals aren’t offered yet (they’ll only let you borrow instruments occasionally).

Friendly and Welcoming

As a student in the adult program for over two years now, School of Rock has provided me with an opportunity to discover abilities in myself I didn’t believe I had (although I have always loved music). Being encouraged to step out of my comfort zone in a supportive environment has not only allowed me to experience personal growth through increased confidence, but also connect with others who share my love of music. It’s exciting to see a song come together by people who may never have played an instrument or sung in front of others before, to experiencing the excitement (and nerves!) of delivering that song on stage in front of family, friends, and teachers/band directors. Speaking of teachers/directors—they are all experienced and talented musicians in their own right, and I feel very privileged to be guided and supported by them in my musical journey. The support/front of house staff are all friendly and welcoming too! I have met and made friends with people I never would have crossed paths with outside SOR. I have found “my tribe”! I am so grateful that School of Rock exists here in Perth. It is definitely my “happy place”!

Wendy Voysey, Google Review.

Very Impressed

My son loved his experience at the School of Rock. He even had the chance to perform in front of a live audience at a real venue that had been hired. They are great at providing feedback to the student after each lesson. Very impressed.

Verity Groves, Google Review

Michael Jelinek’s credentials put him on this list. He has 20 years of playing experience, a Bachelor of Music degree from UWA, recording credits on ARIA-charting albums, and international tours in his resume.

Students have the option to explore scores of genres as well, thanks to Michael’s pretty holistic coverage. Last time we checked, he offered lessons for rock, funk, blues, metal, jazz, and classical.

When it comes to teaching style, he follows a by-the-book method, perfect for newbies who need structure. Advanced learners typically get the same treatment, though lessons focus more on chord theory, improvisation, and technical picking techniques.

Just make sure your budget is planned. The starting fee is $45 for half-hour lessons (find a pair/group to score discounts).

If there’s a bigger snag, it’s that sessions depend on Michael’s schedule and location. It’s also a “one-man band” setup.

Teaches with Passion

It’s been a few years since I came across Michael. He’s provided both of my children with lessons (one of which is now at WAAPA). My son is learning bass from Michael and when he comes home after a lesson he’s so excited about a new song he’s learning or a new technique or playing style. Michael is a teacher you never forget because he teaches with passion and understanding. He is a wonderful teacher!

Chris Parry, Google Review

Phenomenal Guitar Teacher

Michael is a phenomenal guitar teacher. He has a lovely way with my crew (kids & teens) that encourages them to practice their guitar with very little prompting from me. Thanks Michael.

Ann Conlon, Google Review