Adaptive Music Lessons at Third Street
Adaptive Music Lessons provide individualized music instruction designed to support a wide range of learning styles and abilities.
Adaptive Music Lessons
While personalized instruction is a hallmark of all Third Street programs, Adaptive Music Lessons provide individualized music instruction designed to support a wide range of learning styles and abilities. Taught by Board-Certified Music Therapists, these in-person lessons draw upon expertise in music education, learning, communication, and human development. Instructors thoughtfully adapt teaching strategies, pacing, lesson structure, environment, and communication approaches to align with each student's unique strengths, interests, and learning needs while maintaining the educational goals of music instruction.
What is the difference between Traditional Music Lessons and Adaptive Music Lessons?
Adaptive Music Lessons prioritize accessibility. In addition to musical training, instructors are Board-Certified Music Therapists with specialized expertise in recognizing and responding to cognitive, physical, sensory, or developmental differences that may influence how a student engages in learning. This allows for flexible, responsive instruction while maintaining meaningful musical growth.
Strengthen the Educational and Community Focus
Students develop musical skills such as playing an instrument, singing, rhythm, improvisation, songwriting, music reading (when appropriate), performance, and creative expression through individualized music instruction.
Do students in Adaptive Music Lessons have performance opportunities?
When appropriate and desired, students may also have opportunities to participate in recitals, group classes, ensembles, and other community music-making experiences.
FAQs
How are Adaptive Music Lessons different from Creative Arts Therapies?
Adaptive Music Lessons are educational rather than clinical. The primary goal is to help each student develop musical skills through individualized instruction. Lessons are adapted to each student's learning style and needs while maintaining the educational goals of music instruction.
Who are Adaptive Music Lessons for?
Adaptive Music Lessons are open to children ages 6+ and adults 18+ of all abilities.
Lessons are designed for individuals who benefit from individualized instruction and a flexible, non-traditional learning environment.
We specialize in working with:
- Neurodivergent individuals (including autism, ADHD, and sensory processing differences)
- Individuals with physical disabilities or motor challenges
- Individuals with developmental or cognitive differences, including memory changes
- Older adults, including individuals living with dementia or age-related cognitive changes
- Learners who benefit from individualized instruction and flexible teaching approaches
No prior musical experience is required.
Lessons are individualized based on each student's strengths, interests, learning style, and goals.
Do I need to have prior musical experience?
Not at all.
We welcome students of all skill levels. Our therapists are skilled at breaking down concepts to match the student's current ability, whether they are new to music, returning to an instrument, or lifelong learners.
What does a typical Adaptive Lesson look like?
Lessons are designed to feel calm, predictable, and creative.
Depending on the student, a lesson may include instrument exploration, skill-building exercises, learning songs and repertoire, supporting music reading and practice habits, creative play, and structured repetition and improvisation.
What music and instruments are taught in Adaptive Music Lessons?
We teach what the students connect with!
Lessons are built around the learner's interests, ranging from pop and folk music to improvisation and original composition.
Students may explore instruments such as guitar, keyboard, voice, or percussion. Comfort and accessibility come first, and instructors provide thoughtful recommendations based on each student’s strengths and preferences.
How is progress measured?
We don't use a fixed timeline.
For one learner, progress might be learning a song; for another, it might be improving a technique or focus. We make individualized goals at the start and celebrate engagement, curiosity, and confidence as meaningful makers of growth.
How are lessons adapted to meet each student's needs?
Every student learns differently. Our instructors individualize lessons based on each student's strengths, interests, learning style, and goals. Depending on the student's needs, lessons may include adjustments to pacing, communication methods, visual supports, movement, repetition, instrument setup, sensory considerations, and other teaching strategies to create an engaging and successful learning experience.
How do you get started?
1
Step one
Complete the Adaptive Lessons Intake Form, once complete you will hear from our Music Therapy Department with a Suggested Plan of Action.
2
Step two
Schedule your Adaptive Lesson 30-minute Evaluation Lesson
The Evaluation Lesson is FREE (a $90 value) during our Priority Scheduling period (expires Sept. 30, 2026)
3
Step three
Register for a series of Adaptive Lessons that align with the plan of action created in partnership with the Third Street Music Therapy representative. The Third Street Student Services team is available for assistance on scheduling and registration.
Adaptive Lessons Pricing Options
All adaptive lessons at Third Street are registered by semester. Lessons are scheduled individually to best meet the needs of clients and their families. Clients may register up to 10 weeks into a semester and pay prorated tuition based on the remaining weeks. At Third Street, you can always change your lesson length and schedule.
Adaptive Music Lessons 2026-2027
30-Minute Session
$92.50/per lesson
Private Session with Board Certified Music Therapist
In-Person Session at Third Street Music School
Adaptive Music Lessons 2026-2027
45-Minute Session
$114.50/per lesson
Private Session with Board Certified Music Therapist
In-Person Session at Third Street Music School
Adaptive Music Lessons 2026-2027
30-Minute Partner Session
$92.50/per lesson
Partner lesson with Board Certified Music Therapist (2 participants)
In-Person Session at Third Street Music School
Adaptive Music Lessons 2026-2027
45-Minute Partner Session
$44.75/per lesson
Partner lesson with a Board Certified Music Therapist (2 participants)
In-Person Session at Third Street Music School
Adaptive Music Lessons 2026-2027
45-Minute Group Session
$32.50/per lesson
Group lesson with Board Certified Music Therapist (3-5 participants)
In-Person Session at Third Street Music School
Adaptive Music Lessons 2026-2027
OPWDD Self-Direction
Families using OPWDD Self-Direction may be able to use their budgets for Adaptive Music Lessons. Coverage depends on each individual's approved Self-Direction plan and budget.
Have any more questions?
Connect with our Student Services team to learn more about Music Therapy at Third Street.
Email: Student.Services@ThirdStreet.nyc
Phone: 212-777-3240 ext. 17
