Folk Instrument Instructors

Banjo, Mandolin, Fiddle, Harmonica

(Ages 4 and up)

Ukulele lessons have been very popular recently. It can be an easy first instrument to learn for younger students (as well as older) and can easily entertain at parties!

Our ukulele instructors teach folk, blues, country, reggae and rock-n-roll styles — and classical too. Beginner ukulele lessons work on chords, simple songs and melodies, sight reading and theory. Each lesson will challenge you with a new technique or music theory, and ends with something fun – such as your favorite riff or song. We employ a variety of ukulele method books based on student needs and preferences, and encourage students to bring smartphones or CDs to their lessons to learn their favorite tunes.

What’s the #1 reason to study ukulele, banjo or mandolin at PMA?

Our ukulele, mandolin and banjo instructors are warm and friendly, and get to know each student and parent on a personal level. We work with you to craft a lesson plan that fits your individual needs and the student's favorite type of music. Whether you're playing in local bands, a seven year old taking their first lesson, or a fifty year old returning to the ukulele after many years, we’ll set goals to achieve your musical aspirations.

What styles of ukulele, banjo and mandolin do you teach?

Our ukulele lessons, banjo lessons, mandolin lessons and harmonica lessons are designed for you ~ folk to country, reggae and rock-n-roll styles.

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How qualified are your ukulele instructors?

Our instructors have received their education from prestigious institutions from around the US. See our instructors page for specific education and accreditations. Some have toured the US with their bands, and bring many years of professional performance and teaching experience to your lessons. They also perform solo and in bands around the Valley and encourage our students to see them perform.

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What will I learn from banjo lessons and ukulele lessons at the PMA?

Beginner ukulele students can expect to work on chords, simple songs and melodies, sight reading and theory. Our instructors balance musicianship and fun by making sure that each lesson presents a new technical challenges or theory concept, and ends with something fun, such as your favorite riff or song. We use instrument specific strings method books, and encourage students to bring their smartphone or CDs to their lesson to learn their favorite tunes.  Our banjo lessons and mandolin lessons are structured the same way as our ukulele lessons.

In-Person Ukulele Classes vs. Online Ukulele Classes 

PMA, like many other schools, has had to evaluate how to keep music lessons going. While we know the most effective way to teach and learn is in person, we also want to ensure our staff’s and students’ safety and peace of mind. PMA has gone above and beyond what is required for safety precautions, to insure safe in person music lessons. Safety Video. For the time being, in addition to in person classes, we will offer online ukulele lessons and will be happy to discuss how we are offering the best online ukulele lessons possible. Ask us how.‍

Do I need to purchase a banjo, mandolin or ukulele to take music classes?

PMA offers ukuleles for beginner ukulele lessons (for your convenience, students can use one of ours at their first lesson). But to practice at home, you will need a ukulele.  Call us for instrument availability, for banjo lessons and mandolin lessons. Take the next step call 602-253-6266 to grab a great lesson time as space is limited.  For harmonica lessons, given their personal nature, you will need to have your own, for music lessons.

Are there recitals? 

Absolutely! For many PMA students, our bi-annual recitals are the crux of lessons, when they get to show off! Students have the opportunity to perform on a top notch stage, in a beautiful setting, for friends and family. PMA recitals are fun gatherings where attendees catch up and get to listen to great entertainment. All students are encouraged to participate.

Blaze Pizza on Central Avenue, hosts open mic nights, PMA fundraisers in a semi-private venue. Families come together for a fun night of pizza and entertainment. Performing is open to all, not only PMA students.  A portion of proceeds go toward expanding music lessons in the community.

Ukulele lessons & classes for all ages in Phoenix AZ!

Looking for private ukulele or banjo lessons “near me”?
#1 choice in Phoenix, AZ!
Youth & adult ukulele or banjo lessons and classes. All skill levels!

Serving Central Phoenix, Encanto-Palmcroft, Paradise Valley, Desert Ridge, the Central Corridor, Arcadia, Central, Brophy and Xavier High Schools, and all of Phoenix! 85003, 85008, 85014, 85015, 85006, 85007, 85013

Interested in a different instrument? PMA is a full service music academy

We offer instruments and courses for everyone to choose from