Business Details
3 Years
experience
Your Trusted Music Lessons Provider in Austin, TX
At McLaughlin School Of Music, we believe music education transcends technical proficiency. Founded in 2023, our studio cultivates self-confidence and a lifelong appreciation for music through personalized instruction tailored to each student's unique learning style. Our team of accomplished instructors, many holding advanced degrees in music, employs innovative teaching methods that transform complex concepts into accessible, engaging lessons. From beginners discovering their first chords to advanced students refining performance techniques, we create an environment where passion and dedication lead to mastery. Our commitment to matching students with the ideal mentor ensures every learner receives individualized attention, fostering growth both in skill and artistic expression. With flexible lesson options spanning piano, guitar, voice, strings, and percussion, we serve diverse learners across Austin and surrounding communities, making music education accessible to all ages and experience levels.
Services
Piano Lessons
Guitar Lessons
Voice Training
Violin Instruction
Drum Lessons
Ukulele Classes
Served areas
- Austin, Round Rock, Pflugerville, and Central Texas
Details
- Year established: 2023
Highlights and features
- We match students with instructors suited to their learning style and goals
- Our teachers hold advanced degrees and specialize in diverse musical genres
- Customized lesson plans adapt to each student's pace and interests
- Performance opportunities build confidence and stage presence
- Innovative teaching methods make complex concepts accessible and engaging
Associations and certifications
- ADMTA
- TMTA
- MTNA
- Music Teachers National Association
What people say
Exceptional instructors
Personalized teaching
Rapid student progress
Welcoming environment
Expert mentorship
Services
Piano Lessons
Customized piano instruction for all levels develops technical proficiency and musical expression. Our instructors use innovative methods to teach reading sheet music, improvisation, and performance techniques. Students progress from foundational skills to advanced repertoire at their own pace while building confidence through regular performance opportunities.
Guitar Lessons
Comprehensive guitar lessons cover acoustic, electric, and classical styles with personalized lesson plans. Students learn chord progressions, fingerpicking, and music theory while exploring genres from rock to classical. Our instructors adapt teaching approaches to match each student's musical interests and technical goals.
Voice Training
Professional vocal instruction focuses on breath control, pitch accuracy, and performance techniques. Lessons include warm-ups, repertoire development, and microphone technique for contemporary styles. Students receive guidance on maintaining vocal health while expanding their range and expressive capabilities.
Violin Instruction
Structured violin lessons develop proper bowing technique, finger placement, and music reading skills. Our instructors use Suzuki and traditional methods to teach classical repertoire while incorporating modern styles. Students participate in ensemble playing and performance opportunities to build confidence and musicality.
Drum Lessons
Drum instruction covers rhythm patterns, stick technique, and coordination exercises for various genres. Students learn to read drum charts, develop timing with metronomes, and practice on professional-grade equipment. Lessons emphasize both technical fundamentals and creative expression through personalized practice routines.
People
Matt McLaughlin
Founder
Matt McLaughlin established McLaughlin School Of Music with a vision to create a nurturing environment for musical growth. His innovative teaching methods break down complex concepts into accessible lessons, particularly excelling in early childhood music education. Matt's leadership fosters a studio culture where both instructors and students thrive.
David Mesquitic
Piano Instructor
David Mesquitic specializes in adult piano education, helping students return to music after long breaks. His patient approach balances encouragement with technical challenges, focusing on pop and jazz styles. David's expertise in bridging knowledge gaps makes him particularly effective for intermediate learners seeking structured improvement.
Mary Ann P.
Master's Degree Holder
With a graduate music degree, Mary Ann brings academic rigor to her piano instruction. She emphasizes proper technique and musicality, drawing from university-level teaching experience. Her students benefit from professional-grade instruction that develops both technical skills and artistic interpretation in a supportive environment.
Stephanie M.
Adult Student
Stephanie M. returned to piano after a 30-year hiatus, finding renewed passion through personalized instruction. Her experience highlights the studio's effectiveness in meeting adult learners' unique needs. As both student and observer, she provides valuable perspective on the academy's teaching methodologies and instructor selection process.
Shayna B.
Parent
Shayna B. represents the parent perspective, witnessing her child's musical growth from beginner to confident performer. Her testimonials emphasize the academy's impact on children's self-esteem and technical development. As an advocate for music education, she highlights the transformative effects of personalized instruction on young learners.
Questions
What instruments do you teach?
We offer piano, guitar, voice, violin, ukulele, drums, cello, and more with specialized instructors.
Do you accept adult learners?
Yes! Our students range from children to adults, with customized lessons for all age groups.
How are instructors matched with students?
We assess learning styles, goals, and personality to pair students with their ideal teacher.
Are performance opportunities available?
Yes, we organize recitals and showcases to help students build confidence and stage presence.
What makes your teaching approach unique?
Our instructors tailor methods to individual needs while maintaining rigorous technical standards and creativity.
Reviews (10)
Binita D
Aug 10, 2022
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Our son was at the point of quitting the piano altogether when we decided to give the music one more chance. Now we've reached the point we've never even had hoped to be at: he starts his daily piano practice spontaneously and wants to excel and do it right. . .
Linda H
Aug 10, 2022
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I began studying with Matt McLaughlin three years ago, after a hiatus from piano lessons of nearly forty years! He is, quite simply, a superb piano teacher, and I whole heartedly recommend him to anyone who is serious about playing the piano. In my case, employing kindness, patience, phenomenal skill, and good humor, Mr. McLaughlin has significantly improved both my understanding of music theory and my playing.
He has introduced me to sophisticated fingering, phrasing, voicing, pedaling and myriad other techniques, suggested more effective ways to practice, and taught me how better to interpret the music as written. Thanks to his customized instruction and unwavering support, I am finally able to tackle music I always wanted to play but never imagined I could learn. Playing the piano is once again a source of great joy in my life, and, thanks to Matt, I am daily reminded that even an old dog can learn new tricks - - if she has the right trainer.
He has introduced me to sophisticated fingering, phrasing, voicing, pedaling and myriad other techniques, suggested more effective ways to practice, and taught me how better to interpret the music as written. Thanks to his customized instruction and unwavering support, I am finally able to tackle music I always wanted to play but never imagined I could learn. Playing the piano is once again a source of great joy in my life, and, thanks to Matt, I am daily reminded that even an old dog can learn new tricks - - if she has the right trainer.
Linda Paterson
Jul 25, 2021
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My son has loved his clarinet lessons. When he started, he was the youngest student the teacher had ever had, and the teacher did a great job tailoring lessons to my son's age and total beginner status. My son has had two teachers at GAMA, and he has learned so much and gotten along well with both of them. GAMA also did a great job transitioning to the new teacher when the first one moved on. Communication from the office is always helpful and timely. Everyone I've dealt with has been great.
Karen Jolly
Mar 28, 2021
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Starting music lessons for the first time as an adult was a big step for me. Luckily, I found GAMA and they set me up with an exceptional harp teacher. The school is very well organized and is great about communicating. They have done an exceptional job at keeping things going during the Pandemic with on-line recitals and activities. They even offer a free weekly "music hangout" where any student can join to play whatever they are working on or just to listen. All of the teachers are professionals who care about their work and their students. GAMA is a real treasure for music students - young or old!
Mary Roach
Feb 28, 2021
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I want to give a huge shout out to the GAMA crew for creating such a seamless experience for me from beginning to end. Immense gratitude to my piano teacher Danny Kavka, who was incredibly kind to this nervous adult beginner. He provided me the structure I needed for learning the foundations, while being sure to bring my own interests into every single lesson. If you're on the fence, I really recommend trying it out, especially since you can pay month-to-month. Cheers!
Connie Warkentin
Apr 21, 2016
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I would not hesitate to recommend Matt to anyone looking for a dedicated, talented, and very inspiring teacher. My two daughters, who have been playing piano for 10 and 7 years, have been taking lessons with Matt for almost a year and both girls have made huge advances in their skill level. My oldest, specifically, often remarks how Matt makes the music come alive for her! He has been very patient and encouraging in correcting some of the poor technique that other teachers have allowed to continue for all these years.
Even though Matt has high standards for practice time and attendance at lessons, he is very realistic and has been flexible with finding the best schedule that suits our family. We feel extremely blessed to have found Matt!
Even though Matt has high standards for practice time and attendance at lessons, he is very realistic and has been flexible with finding the best schedule that suits our family. We feel extremely blessed to have found Matt!
LYn VIg
Oct 15, 2015
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Matt is an amazing piano teacher! We are so blessed to have found him following a move to the Austin area. When Matt plays the piano, it is truly magical, he is one of the best piano players that I have ever seen.it is clear that he has put his heart and soul into perfecting his art, and is able to pass his gifts, talents and skills over to his students. This is the teacher that you hope for for your child, or yourself.he is the best of the best. Matt is keenly observant, and picks up on his students' strengths and weaknesses in order to make them better musicians. Matt is inspiring, and even discusses the history behind various pieces and their composers for an amazing, well-rounded and comprehensive instruction. In addition to being the best teacher my son has studied under in terms of skill, Matt is kind, approachable and very organized in his method of teaching. Lynda & Zakariah
Monica L.
Oct 01, 2015
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My 8 year old son receives wonderful piano instruction from Matt. He has been attending lessons for a year and has made tremendous progress. I am grateful that Matt teaches technique, theory and also incorporates proper posture. None of my sons previous teachers taught posture and I believe that is has helped my child excel at piano. Matt has also helped instill a love of playing in my son. He knows what he is capable of and pushes him to his level of achievement.
Chris Ringstaff
Sep 19, 2015
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Having been a former music student, I simply wanted the best possible piano teacher for my daughter. I feel that I have found that teacher in Matt. My daughter looks forward to her lesson each week and practices everyday.not for me but for "Mr. Matt". It is amazing the progress she has made in the past four years as a student of Matt. Our friends and family are always complementing her playing. I cannot recommend him more highly.
Sophia Lin
Jul 11, 2015
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I feel so lucky that we found Matt not long after we moved to Austin in last year. We went to several recitals but were not satisfied with the 'feeling' about teachers, then I found Matt online. My daughter began to like Mr. Matt after first trial lesson, and so far we have been learning piano from him over a year now. He is so young compare to the other teachers we had in the past, so I was wondering if he could be patient to young kids.
But over the time, his patience and always being encouraging are definitely impressive, my daughter's learning and practicing become more initiative. It is very important for kids doing what they really like, and I think Matt is a kind of teacher making kids enjoy what they are doing with excellent skill and dedicated attitude.
But over the time, his patience and always being encouraging are definitely impressive, my daughter's learning and practicing become more initiative. It is very important for kids doing what they really like, and I think Matt is a kind of teacher making kids enjoy what they are doing with excellent skill and dedicated attitude.