10 top music schools in Cape Town

Music and vocal training for beginners to professionals

Last Update 14 July 2017

Looking to channel your inner Ozzy Osbourne, Nina Simone or Hans Zimmer? Then look no further than some of the Mother City’s most favourable music schools.

These institutions offer a relaxed environment, plenty of rehearsal space to get creative in and the opportunity to perform and network with like-minded musicians. Getting started could be as simple as buying a set of drum sticks.

School of Rock
This internationally recognised music school, which officially launched in Cape Town in May 2015, offers kids the chance to live out their biggest rock dreams by offering a comprehensive range of music lessons to suit all ability levels. The institution differs from traditional music academies because it implores on a performance-based approach to instruction as it believes that “the stage is the greatest teacher.” Learners get to rehearse as part of a band and take part in live shows too. Students can learn how to play instruments like the guitar, drums, saxophone and keyboard. Interested student can also hone their vocal skills. The Claremont-based school offers various age-specific programmes that focus on building certain skills. While the courses are designed for students ages six to 18; older folk can get their jam on with the Adult Performance Programme. Visit the school’s website or Facebook page for more information.

The Jazz Workshop
Established in 1965, this local gem is the oldest music school in Cape Town. The Jazz workshop provides a wide variety of music lessons, including vocal training. Not only will your specific music needs be catered for, encompassing everything from blues to ethnic beats, but you’ll also be taught by performing musicians. Anyone can call and book; from beginners to advanced players looking to tweak a few chords. If you aren’t an instrument player but want to fine-tune your vocal chords, you are able to have voice lessons with the highly skilled teachers.

53 Buitengracht Street | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 424 4956

Cape Town Academy of Music
The Cape Town Academy of Music was founded by award-winning musician, Avril Kinsey, and teaches the same syllabus as the Trinity College of Music in London. The Academy offers a range of lessons you can sign up for, from cello playing to songwriting - it really is your own little musical theatre! One of the best parts of this institution is that the teachers are equipped to cater for both beginners and professionals. You can cultivate your craft here or perfect your pre-existing skill! Join the Academy of Music for a musical experience you definitely will not forget!

49 Valentino Drive | Kirstenhof | +27(0)21 782 8857

Dezi Ray Vocal Coaching
Dezi Ray’s voice has taken her around the world. She’s sung at Cape Town’s ubiquitous jazz restaurant, The Green Dolphin, and has appeared on stages as far flung as the famous Raffles Hotel in Singapore. Her vocal range and extensive experience in the industry has equipped her with the skills to teach privately. Lessons she offers include singing, microphone technique, styling and percussion. Notably, the songstress cites Zolani Mohala, from Freshlyground, among her past students. Give her a call if you want to perfect your pitch and tone with an industry veteran!
305 Lingen Gardens | Camp Street | Oranjezicht | +27(0)82 717 2322

Legacy School of Music and Vocal Tuition
The Legacy School of Music and Vocal Tuition is not just a learning institution, but also a space to mingle with prolific musos. The institution not only offers vocal training by industry professionals, but also part-time lessons in piano, drums, vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar and bass guitar. The Legacy School of Music follows a syllabus but it embraces a flexibility that works to develop personal musicianship and band skills. There’s plenty of rehearsal space and, as an added bonus, students are given the opportunity to perform at a number of recitals that showcase what the student have learnt at the institution. Definitely an institution to visit!
3 Viola Road | Blouberg | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 556 5052

Strepitoso Music School
Esteemed composer, Cornelis Jordaan, oversees the Cape Town branch of Strepitoso Music School. He encourages all students to experiment with their respective instruments, as he believes that real knowledge comes through experience. In this same line, he arranges regular live performances for his students. This means that all the musicians will get the chance to really put their practice to the test – showcasing their hard work and talent. A fabulous way to sink or swim, if you will. The school offers piano lessons, violin lessons, music theory and orchestral musicianship training!
1 Kinaboom Crescent | Kleinboom Estate | Brackenfell | +27 (0)21 981 0730

Jamrock Music School
Now this is the place where you can really rock and roll, baby! This performance-based music school has a special focus on rock-related genres making it the best place to channel your inner Gene Simmons! Get your instruments out for a lesson by accomplished local musicians. Expect drum lessons, keyboard lessons and bass guitar lessons here! A true Jamrock-in place to play some tunes in a relaxed and creative environment.
Shop 57 | Brackenfell Shopping Centre | Brackenfell | +27 (0)21 981 1313

Hugo Lambrechts Music Centre
The Hugo Lambrechts Music Centre is the ideal place to go to for classical music training. Here there is a high concentration of wind and string orchestra students who can expect to cover subjects such as symphonic instruments, solo playing and chamber music. All lovers of classical music will be delighted to hear that the Hugo Lambrechts Music centre keeps the standard of classical music high. The prestigious institution also works to keep the appreciation for the genre alive! The advanced syllabus prepares all young students, who attend the classes, for the stage!
20 Picton Street | Parow | +27(0)21 939 9105

Urban Beat
With over 10 years in the industry Urban Beat is your go-to for proficiency in drumming, bass guitar, classical guitar, acoustic guitar and electric guitar. Expect teachers who are skilled in various drumming styles, especially Ian Black, who offers affordable and practical drumming lessons. Urban Beat is perfect for beginners as they can develop new skills and techniques from the first lesson. The institute has incredible facilities; equipped with state-of-the-art instruments and gear to really bring out the best music in all its students!
Leonardo Park | Corner Link Road and Main Road | Parklands | +27 (0)21 558 6258

Kindermusik with Leigh
Are you nurturing a mini virtuoso? Or perhaps you are just wanting to have a little fun with the little ones? Either way, Kindermusik curriculum has a strong focus on music and its ability to help kiddies develop physically and emotionally. Kindermusik has also shown that music has the potential to enhance cognitive, lingual and social skills. The program with, music teacher, Leigh involves children singing, dancing and chanting all the while incorporating the playing of musical instruments. Your kiddies are bound to have a fabulously entertaining time here!
Stella Road | Cape Town | +27(0)82 615 5116

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