How Much Do Flute Lessons Cost?
Flute lesson prices explained: what to expect before you start
Rose Park
updated 10/14/25 • 4 min read
The Average Flute Lesson Cost:
Flute lessons typically cost between $40 and $70 per hour*, depending on the teacher’s education and performance level, the location, lesson length, and whether the lessons are online or in person.
On average, a one-hour flute lesson costs about $72. Live online flute lessons using Zoom or GoogleMeet are often more affordable, averaging $30 to 40 for a half hour. Local private lessons usually range from $40 to 50 for a half hour, while small in person group lessons can cost around $25 for a half hour.
Some flute teachers without a music degree may charge as little as $40 an hour, while concert flutists with advanced degrees and rich performance experience can charge close to $120 per hour.
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What Determines Flute Lesson Costs?
Flute Teacher Level
Flute teachers without a formal music degree usually charge around $40 per hour, but their instruction may not provide the same depth or technical accuracy as a professional instructor.
Some teachers have a background in another instrument, like clarinet or saxophone, and also teach flute. Their rates often fall between $45 and $55 per hour. They can share helpful general music knowledge, but might not have the flute-specific experience to guide students through tone, breath, and advanced techniques. Starting with a teacher who specializes in flute helps you build good habits from the beginning.
If you are just getting started or at an intermediate level, the ideal flute teacher is someone with at least a bachelor’s degree in flute performance. Their lessons generally range from $60 to $70 per hour, while those with a master’s or doctorate may charge $70 to $80 per hour.
In-person vs Online Lessons
Online flute lessons are generally the most affordable option, with an average increase of about $10 per hour for lessons at a teacher’s studio, and a small additional cost if the teacher travels to your home. In person lesson prices can vary a lot depending on the number of flute teachers in your area.
If you value convenience, high quality instruction, and affordable pricing, live online flute lessons are a great choice. They save time by removing travel and hosting, and many parents find this format easy to fit into a busy schedule.
For those who prefer more hands on interaction and don’t mind travel time, in person lessons are also an option and offer a more traditional experience.
Location
Location also plays a big role in how much flute lessons cost. In larger cities where living expenses are higher, lesson rates are usually more expensive than in suburban or smaller areas.
For example, in-person lessons in California can cost about 20 to 30 percent more than in Indiana, and teachers in places like New York or Chicago often charge similar higher rates. The difference for online lessons is a bit smaller, averaging around 15 percent.
Recorded vs Live Lessons
If you are searching for the most affordable way to learn flute, you might come across pre recorded or app based lessons. These programs usually teach basic flute skills and techniques for a small monthly fee.
However, they cannot match the quality of live one on one instruction, where a real teacher can tailor each lesson to your goals, give feedback in real time, and help you practice more effectively. Students who learn entirely on their own also tend to develop bad habits without realizing it.
If you want to become a confident, capable flutist, live one on one lessons are the way to go — such as the $35 half hour lessons offered through Lesson With You.
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How to Find the Most Affordable Flute Lessons
We surveyed over 100 flute teachers across our own site, Lesson With You, and three other major platforms: Wyzant, Lessonface, and Thumbtack, using a random zip code as the location. We specifically looked for teachers who hold a degree in flute and offer online lessons.
Lesson With You has a set rate of $65 per hour, which is more affordable than the average price found on other major lesson sites. Each flute teacher at Lesson With You holds an advanced degree in flute, offering high quality instruction at a consistent rate. Lessons are $65 per hour, and there is also a free trial available with no contracts required.
Wyzant had the highest average price among qualified flute teachers, at $78 per hour. Even when including teachers who didn’t specifically major in flute, such as those with a general woodwind performance or music education degree, the average remained around $72 per hour.
Thumbtack had a slightly lower average price at $76 per hour among the flute teachers we surveyed. Many of the teachers listed also teach multiple instruments or didn’t major in flute in college.
Lessonface had the lowest average price at $62 per hour, but many teachers didn’t major in flute and also teach other instruments such as piano or saxophone. The free trial lesson lasts only 15 minutes, which may not be enough time to assess their teaching style.
Wyzant, Lessonface, and Thumbtack all have a large number of in person and online flute teachers, so there are certainly some good options. However, finding teachers whose education and pricing match those offered by Lesson With You can take time and effort.
Should Beginners Learn Flute With A Professional Teacher?
Yes, having a professional teacher from the start makes a big difference. A good teacher can teach beginners how to hold the flute comfortably, read music, and create a clear tone with proper breathing. They also guide posture and hand position, helping you avoid habits that can be difficult to fix later.
That said, you don’t need an advanced or expensive teacher right away. As mentioned earlier, most beginners can start with a teacher who has a bachelor’s degree in flute and at least a few years of teaching experience. What also matters is finding someone who communicates clearly, makes lessons enjoyable, and encourages practice.
What Do Students Learn in Flute Lessons?
Flute Techniques
Flute lessons cover all the basics, from breathing and finger placement to posture, tone, and musical expression. You’ll learn how to use your breath for a clear, beautiful sound and move smoothly between notes with relaxed, accurate finger motion. Teachers also help you find a comfortable posture and use your core for better control and confidence while playing.
You’ll spend time on scales, rhythm, and phrasing too, since these are the building blocks of music. Because the flute often plays flowing melodies, your teacher will help you stay steady with rhythm and make each transition sound natural.
If you’ve played flute before, lessons are the perfect chance to review and polish your tone, articulation, and breathing, while trying out new pieces and styles that keep you inspired.
Educational and Personal Benefits of Flute Lessons
Flute lessons do more than teach notes and techniques — they help students grow in focus, patience, and creativity. For kids, the flute can be a fun way to build confidence through music. Learning to practice regularly also teaches responsibility and perseverance, which carry over into school and daily life.
For adults, playing the flute offers a calm, relaxing break from a busy schedule. It’s a great way to manage stress, stay mentally sharp, and enjoy the satisfaction of steady progress. Whether you’re picking up the flute for the first time or returning after years away, making music brings a sense of joy, balance, and accomplishment that lasts well beyond the lesson.
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Rose Park
Rose Park is a graduate of the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University where she studied Piano Performance and Arts Administration, receiving both Bachelor's and Master's degrees before co-founding Lesson With You. As a pianist, Rose was a prizewinner in many international piano competitions and performed at various summer programs and festivals across the United States, Italy, and Japan.