Business Details
Trusted Music Lessons in Ottawa | Ottawa Conservatory of Music
At Ottawa Conservatory of Music, we have dedicated ourselves to nurturing musical talent for over four decades. Our mission is to provide award-winning instruction in piano, guitar, vocal training, and a wide range of instruments, guided by a team of highly qualified educators. All our instructors have completed our rigorous Teacher Training Program and bring extensive performance and pedagogical expertise to their lessons. We emphasize modern, creative teaching methods while building foundational musical skills to foster lifelong passion and artistry. Students benefit from performance opportunities in our auditorium and local venues, with preparation for RCM examinations and competitions.Our flexible lesson formats include private, semi-private, and group sessions tailored to individual goals. We prioritize student-centered learning, adapting to diverse needs through in-person, online, and in-home options. Our cancellation policy ensures flexibility, requiring 24-hour notice while allowing two excused absences annually. With locations in Sunnyside and adaptable teaching environments, we remain committed to making music education accessible and transformative for all ages and skill levels.
Services
Private Music Lessons
Group Music Classes
Vocal Training
RCM Exam Preparation
Event Space Rental
Orff Music Program
Birthday Party Packages
Recording Sessions
Wedding Event Hosting
Music Theory Instruction
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of proven music education expertise in Ottawa
- All instructors complete our specialized Teacher Training Program
- Performance opportunities through our on-site auditorium and local venues
- Flexible lesson formats: private, group, online, and in-home options
- RCM-certified instructors preparing students for examinations and competitions
Associations and certifications
- Royal Conservatory of Music
What people say
Experienced instructors
Supportive environment
Performance opportunities
Flexible scheduling
Personalized instruction
Services
Private Music Lessons
Customized 30-60 minute sessions tailored to individual goals and skill levels. Our experienced instructors provide focused attention for piano, guitar, voice, and 10+ instruments. Lessons emphasize technical mastery while nurturing creative expression through diverse musical genres.
Group Music Classes
Affordable $40/half-hour group sessions fostering collaborative learning. Students develop ensemble skills while learning fundamental techniques. Ideal for social learners seeking peer interaction while maintaining structured musical development in a supportive environment.
RCM Exam Preparation
Specialized instruction for Royal Conservatory of Music examinations. Our certified instructors guide students through repertoire, theory, and performance requirements. We maintain an 80%+ success rate in annual RCM assessments through comprehensive, goal-oriented lesson planning.
Event Space Rental
Professional-grade facility accommodating weddings, recitals, and private events. Our 40-capacity space features a full stage, sound system, and outdoor terrace. Hourly rentals at $95 include basic setup with optional add-ons for special occasion packages.
Orff Music Program
Developmental music curriculum combining rhythm, movement, and improvisation. Led by certified instructor Agneta Gibson, this 6-week Sunday program uses play-based learning to cultivate musical creativity in children through hands-on exploration and collaborative activities.
People
Erica Rollins
Vocal Instructor
Passionate vocal teacher with music degree and 15+ years performing experience. Specializes in voice development across multiple genres while teaching guitar and ukulele. Creates supportive environment for students to discover their unique sound.
Tom McDonald
Guitar Instructor
Award-winning guitarist with 15+ years teaching experience. Recognized as Canada's top rock guitarist in 2008. Combines performance expertise with structured lesson plans to develop technical proficiency and musicality across rock, blues, and metal genres.
Chris Libuit
Classical Vocal Coach
Ottawa-born classical singer completing Bachelor of Music at University of Ottawa. Opera performer with 13 years stage experience. Focuses on vocal technique, repertoire development, and performance preparation for aspiring classical musicians.
Brock Tinsley
Music Educator
Award-winning musician and founder of Colfax Music label. Extensive touring experience across North America and Europe. Develops practical skills through band-centric lessons and real-world performance opportunities for emerging artists.
Agneta Gibson
Orff Program Director
Certified Orff instructor using play-based methodology to teach music fundamentals. Develops creative expression through rhythmic movement, vocal exploration, and instrumental improvisation in weekly Sunday classes for children.
Questions
What music lesson formats do you offer?
We provide private, semi-private, and group lessons in 30-60 minute sessions. Instruction available in-person at our Sunnyside location, online, or in-home for added convenience.
How does your cancellation policy work?
We require 24-hour advance notice for cancellations via email. Two excused absences are allowed annually with 80%+ attendance record. Sudden illnesses may qualify for rescheduling or online lesson alternatives.
Do you prepare students for music examinations?
Yes, our RCM-certified instructors specialize in Royal Conservatory of Music exam preparation. We offer comprehensive training for examinations and competitions throughout the year.
Can I rent your venue for private events?
Our 40-capacity venue with professional stage is available for weddings, recitals, and parties at $95/hour. Includes basic setup with optional add-ons for special occasions.
What is your Orff Music Program?
Our developmental Orff program combines music, movement, and creativity for children. Weekly Sunday classes use play-based learning to develop rhythmic awareness and musical expression through hands-on activities.
Reviews (7)
Js Bedard
Jan 11, 2022
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I've been taking vocal lessons with Rob for a few months now. I'm impressed with the progress I've been able to make (especially with hitting higher notes without sounding like a crow!), but the thing that keeps me coming back is that the lessons are fun and never overwhelming.
Eric Lavois
Dec 12, 2021
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Very modern school. I took the eight week guitar course for adults and came out a winner! You wont believe how good the instructor is! I am now taking private guitar lessons at the school and they are very professional and clean
Alok Deshpande
Oct 04, 2020
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Great lessons and very accommodating instructor! In spite of lessons being online in 2020, they clearly went beyond just the basics (like finger picking for guitar) that many others offered.
Mark Murray
Aug 27, 2020
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Positive:Quality
Great guitar lessons for beginners. Learn a lot in a short period of time with Rob!
Great guitar lessons for beginners. Learn a lot in a short period of time with Rob!
Maggie
Jul 01, 2020
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I took the 8-week beginner guitar course and learned so much! It is a great and inexpensive way to dip your toes into guitar and see whether or not you enjoy it before committing to private lessons. We learned 10 or so chords, practised a few songs, and did some theory work as well. I would definitly recommend this class to anyone who wants to get started - Rob is a great instructor!
Marie-Pier A.
Jan 22, 2020
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I took an 8 week group guitar class with Rob. I really enjoyed it; he is a real funny and talented artist :)
I learned many chords and songs. Was able to play knocking on heaven's door at the end of week 8! I used to not even be able to press hard enough on the strings because it hurt so much--- that's how much of a beginner I was before the course.
I learned many chords and songs. Was able to play knocking on heaven's door at the end of week 8! I used to not even be able to press hard enough on the strings because it hurt so much--- that's how much of a beginner I was before the course.
Harry P.
Jul 28, 2019
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The 8 week guitar course was amazing. Being a left handed player it's pretty hard to find things online to play yourself, but Rob explained the finger positioning and it worked out pretty nicely.. Each week you get to learn something new and at the end of 8 weeks I was able to strum and play a couple Bollywood song of my choice which was a fantastic feeling. I had guitar for almost 1&1/2 years, tried learning online but to no advantage, couldn't get anywhere. I am so happy I found this 8 week course and it worked wonders. Definitely worth if you are beginner.
