In today’s world, learning music no longer requires expensive lessons or fancy schools. Thanks to platforms like YouTube, beginners can access high-quality, free music education anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re picking up an instrument for the first time, learning to sing, or diving into music theory, there’s a channel out there for you.
This article highlights 10 of the best YouTube channels for learning music as a beginner. These channels offer free tutorials, tips, exercises, and full lessons to help you grow as a musician—without spending a dime.
Let’s dive in!
Why Learn Music Through YouTube?
YouTube is an ideal place for beginners because:
- It’s 100% free
- You can pause, rewind, and review lessons
- Content is available for all instruments and skill levels
- Many teachers are professional musicians or educators
- You can find both structured courses and quick tips
Now let’s look at 10 fantastic channels that can kick-start your musical journey.
1. JustinGuitar
🎸 Best for: Guitar beginners
Justin Sandercoe has been teaching guitar on YouTube for over a decade. His channel features:
- Complete beginner courses
- Song tutorials
- Technique exercises
- Music theory for guitar
Why it’s great:
Justin is an excellent communicator, and his lessons are well-structured and friendly. His beginner guitar course is one of the best free resources online.
2. Piano Lessons on the Web
🎹 Best for: Piano learners and theory beginners
Tim, the creator of this channel, offers clear, engaging tutorials on:
- Piano technique
- Sight reading
- Music theory
- Ear training
Why it’s great:
His explanations are beginner-friendly, and he focuses on building a strong musical foundation—not just learning songs.
🔗 youtube.com/PianoLessonsOnTheWeb
3. Rick Beato
🎧 Best for: Music theory, ear training, and general musicianship
Rick is a professional producer and musician who covers:
- “What Makes This Song Great” series
- Music theory breakdowns
- Ear training challenges
- Production tips
Why it’s great:
Rick dives deep into how music works, making complex topics like harmony and chord progressions easier to understand—even for beginners.
4. Andrew Huang
🎛️ Best for: Music production and creativity
Andrew is known for his fun and innovative approach to:
- Music production tutorials
- DAW usage (Ableton, Logic, etc.)
- Songwriting challenges
- Experimental music creation
Why it’s great:
If you’re interested in making your own music digitally, Andrew’s channel is inspiring, creative, and full of useful tips.
5. Drumeo
🥁 Best for: Drummers
Drumeo is the go-to channel for drum learners of all levels. It features:
- Beginner drum lessons
- Rudiment training
- Fills, grooves, and technique tips
- Guest lessons from pro drummers
Why it’s great:
The production quality is top-notch, and their instructors are experienced and engaging.
6. Nahre Sol
🎼 Best for: Piano creativity and musical exploration
Nahre Sol blends classical training with modern creativity. Her channel includes:
- Music theory in practice
- Improvisation exercises
- “How to Sound Like” genre breakdowns
- Composing techniques
Why it’s great:
Nahre makes music theory accessible and artistic. She’s perfect for those who want to be both technical and expressive.
7. 8-Bit Music Theory
📊 Best for: Music theory through pop culture and games
This channel teaches theory using video game music as examples:
- Modal harmony
- Key changes
- Melody design
- Chord progression analysis
Why it’s great:
It’s ideal for visual learners and gamers who want to understand the theory behind their favorite soundtracks.
8. Music Matters
📘 Best for: Structured music theory lessons
This UK-based channel features clear, concise lessons on:
- Scales, chords, and intervals
- Notation and sight reading
- Rhythm and meter
- Exam preparation (ABRSM, Trinity)
Why it’s great:
It’s like attending a real music class, with formal theory explained step by step.
9. Singgeek
🎤 Best for: Beginner vocalists
Singgeek is a great resource if you want to start singing. The channel includes:
- Warm-ups and breathing exercises
- Pitch and control techniques
- Range expansion
- Beginner vocal routines
Why it’s great:
The teacher is friendly, clear, and encouraging—perfect for those who feel shy about singing.
10. Signals Music Studio
🎶 Best for: Guitarists and songwriters
This channel covers:
- Music theory for guitar
- Chord progression tips
- Melody and songwriting
- Practice advice
Why it’s great:
It’s a fantastic blend of theory and practical application, especially if you’re writing songs or want to understand why music sounds the way it does.
🔗 youtube.com/SignalsMusicStudio
Tips for Learning Music on YouTube
- Make playlists to organize lessons by topic or instrument
- Take notes like you would in a real class
- Practice immediately after watching a tutorial
- Limit binge-watching—one lesson at a time is more effective
- Use headphones to hear small details in examples
- Subscribe and turn on notifications to stay consistent
Final Thoughts: Your Music Classroom Is Just a Click Away
Learning music has never been more accessible. With these YouTube channels, you have access to expert guidance, quality instruction, and endless inspiration—completely free.
Pick one or two channels that match your current goals, and start learning today. Whether you’re strumming your first chord, learning a new scale, or writing your first song, YouTube can be your best learning partner on the musical journey.