Professional Music Lessons

If you've ever thought about picking up a new hobby or wondered why professional musicians are so passionate about playing music, stop by Showtime Music in Mount Hope, West Virginia, for a lesson. We'll teach you how to play the piano, violin, guitar, bass, banjo, mandolin, ukulele, drums, and harmonica. We also offer voice lessons for aspiring singers.

Why Play an Instrument?

Learning to play a musical instrument offers many benefits. We here at Showtime Music believe that if there's one thing you should learn in your lifetime, it's how to play an instrument. Why? Consider these factors:

Playing a Musical Instrument Makes You Smarter
Many studies have been conducted on the effects of music on the brain. Scientists say that children who are exposed to music, or those who play an instrument do better in school than those who don't. Recent research suggests exposure to music may benefit a child's reading age, IQ, and the development of certain parts of the brain. Adults can benefit from learning to play an instrument too, because it helps the mind to be alert and remain active, eventually helping to sharpen the memory. We have been told that musicians make the best computer programmers.
It Teaches Discipline
Learning to play an instrument is like learning to speak another language, and it can be challenging at times. One of the qualities musicians possess is discipline, because they must learn discipline in order to master playing an instrument. Time must be set aside each day to practice, practice, and practice. If you are lacking discipline, learn to play an instrument, and you will develop it.
Playing a Musical Instrument Relieves Stress
When life, work, or family has stressed you out, playing an instrument can allow you to vent frustration, relax your mood, celebrate one of life's small victories, or even work through a time of grief. Music is one of life's simple joys; it helps calm the mind and relax the body.
Playing a Musical Instrument is Fun
Yes, it can be hard work, but it is also loads of fun. Once you have gained some experience, opportunities will arise for you to share your music with family and friends. You may also consider playing professionally in the future. Playing a musical instrument can open many opportunities to enrich your life.

How Long Will It Take Me to Learn to Play?

The length of time required to learn to play an instrument varies with the instrument and the individual. If you are able to devote at least 30 minutes per day (five days per week) to practice, you should make good progress toward your goal.

What if It's Not Fun?

Everyone's personality and make-up are different. What is fun for one person may not appeal to another. The key is to discover what motivates each individual. Showtime Music not only offers a variety of teachers with different personalities and strengths, but we also offer a variety of motivational tools designed to help parents keep their students interested. We can make use of these tools from the earliest beginner right on up to adulthood. At any age, we all sometimes need that extra "boost" of a new reason to continue. Don't allow discouragement to set in. Playing music is one of the most rewarding hobbies of a lifetime, so don't miss out!

Do I Need To Have an Instrument at Home?

Absolutely! Learning to play an instrument without one to practice on can be frustrating. Daily practice is an indispensable element for playing an instrument well. Without the ability to put in regular at-home practice, your progress will be greatly limited.

How Much Do I Need to Spend on a Beginner Instrument?

Well, it varies depending upon the instrument. A decent beginner guitar can be purchased for as little as $150.00 or so. Just make sure you have a reputable company to stand behind it. New guitars WILL need service during the first two years! Necks change, frets need a touch-up, bridges and nuts may need adjustment. This can cost as much as $65.00 per service. When you purchase from Showtime Music, we include this service at the time of the purchase.

When it comes to a piano or keyboard, we suggest a weighted keyboard, if possible, within your budget. When training for the piano, both the mind and the muscles must be developed. Playing a non-weighted keyboard is like weight-training without the weights. It trains the mind in what to do, but the muscles never develop to accomplish the task.

Perhaps the easiest way to put it is this: You wouldn't want your child to try to learn to drive in a car with bad brakes, sloppy steering, or a transmission that won't shift. Likewise, a quality instrument will make the experience not only more enjoyable but also more successful. Purchasing a poor-quality instrument is sometimes the best way to ensure failure. Our experienced staff at Showtime Music can assist you in making the best choice for a beginning instrument.

What About a Used Instrument?

Used instruments can be a great deal. We have also seen the customer purchase nothing but a "bag" of problems. If the instrument you need is a piano, it would be wise to hire a qualified piano technician to evaluate the instrument and give you an estimate of any repairs needed. Simply playing a piano cannot reveal the condition of the soundboard, pin-block, or bridges. For a used guitar, bass, or band instrument, take an experienced player along with you to help evaluate it before you buy. Also, please take the time to look over a selection of new instruments. They can be much more affordable than you may think.

No matter what your chosen instrument is, we want you to succeed in your efforts. Helping you sound good makes us look good! Do not hesitate to ask for help from one of our knowledgeable staff. Showtime Music employs some of the most experienced people in the music industry. Don't be afraid to take advantage of this vast resource of knowledge. We hope you will enjoy many years of music-making!