Mandolin & Banjo Lessons for Kids and Adults in Seattle

Whether you’re a kid drawn to the sound of bluegrass or an adult finally picking up an instrument you’ve always loved listening to, our teachers meet you where you are. Meter Music School offers private mandolin and banjo lessons at two Seattle studios — the Central District and Columbia City — for complete beginners through advanced players, across folk, country, bluegrass, and classical styles.

What to Expect in a Lesson

Lessons run 30, 45, or 60 minutes, once a week. Your teacher builds a plan around the music you actually want to play — traditional bluegrass, old-time, classical, or a mix — rather than a fixed curriculum everyone follows the same way. Lessons typically cover picking technique, chords, and playing along with real songs from the start.

Mandolin or Banjo?

Both are approachable string instruments with a strong home in folk and bluegrass traditions, though each has its own distinct sound and technique. If you already know which one calls to you, we’ll get you started there; if you’re not sure, your teacher can help you decide based on the sound and style you’re drawn to.

Adult Students

If you’re an adult considering lessons, you’re not the exception here. Adult students learn differently than kids — lessons tend to move at a faster pace and lean more on the music and goals you bring in, whether that’s playing along at a jam session, learning the songs you grew up on, or building real technique from scratch.

Meet the Teachers

Our mandolin and banjo teachers play across folk, bluegrass, and classical styles.

• See current mandolin teachers and their availability →

• See current banjo teachers and their availability →

From Our Google Reviews

“We are so very lucky to have Meter Music school in the neighborhood. Please check them out, you will be happy that you did!” -Jeannie C.

“Great programs, great teachers, lots of good vibes.” -Lara L.

“The staff at Meter Music has been fantastic. We have had only great experiences and I highly recommend this studio to anyone interested in expanding their music education regardless of age.” -Andrea S.

Our Studios

Central District — 2110 E Union St, Seattle, WA 98122

Columbia City — 4435 Rainier Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118

Both studios have dedicated practice rooms — a space to focus on your playing that’s often hard to find at home. Families and adult students from Madrona, Leschi, Capitol Hill, Mt. Baker, Hillman City, Seward Park, and Beacon Hill study with us at one location or the other, whichever is the shorter drive.

Common Questions

Do I need my own instrument to start? Yes — reach out to our team if you’d like any suggestions for renting/buying an instrument.

How much are lessons? See our Tuition & Fees page →

Can I switch between instruments or teachers later? Yes! Students can change to a different instrument or a different teacher at any time. You can make these changes in your portal or work with our front desk staff to go over the options.

What if I need to reschedule? See our School Policies page →