Private & Group Lessons in San Luis Obispo CA by Music Motive

We've been providing music lessons since the early 80's, and now offer many instruments. We also have music enrichment classes at Music Motive and in local schools for beginning Guitar, Drums, Piano, Ukulele, and a Glee Club! We are endorsed by the San Luis Obispo Symphony.

Music Motive is a fresh concept in music education and inspiration. We offer music programs for every age in a relaxed, fun environment and provide highly qualified instructors with a passion for teaching. In addition to our San Luis Obispo facility, we have locations in Paso Robles and Nipomo.

Percussion Break (weekly drum circle), special workshops, and many other happenings go on continually throughout each month. All of these programs are especially designed to give our students and the local music community opportunities to stretch and be inspired.

Highlights and features

Horn, Bass, Keyboard, Brass, Mandolin, Ukulele, Viola, Violin, Drums, Voice, Percussion, Woodwinds, Piano, Guitar

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Steve Ambarian

Music Motive's own "Uka-maniac" as we like to call him, the amazingly talented, Steve Ambarian. He's a great musician, song writer, recording artist, performer, guitar/ukulele teacher, and just a really nice guy. That's why he also works behind the counter, helping customers and students find their musical way around our store and studios.

Emily Cox

Emily Cox is an accomplished musician, excelling in violin. She teaches violin for the San Luis Obispo Symphony's school programs and also at Music Motive as a violin and piano teacher. Her passion for teaching a playing her instrument is obvious.

Wyatt Lund

Wyatt Lund is a drum instructor and the Program Manager for Music Motive. He began playing in the school band at age ten, and continued through the public music programs through high school. During his years at Cal Poly, he split his time between school and touring with his rock band.

Steve Hilstein

Steve Hilstein has created a legacy by empowering music teachers and students since 1981. Beyond his presence as an active drummer on the California Central Coast and abroad, he founded and operated a drum shop/drum school in San Luis Obispo, California for over 20 years.

Motivator - Steve Ambarian

Music Motive's own "Uka-maniac" as we like to call him, the amazingly talented, Steve Ambarian. He's a great musician, song writer, recording artist, performer, guitar/ukulele teacher, and just a really nice guy. That's why he also works behind the counter, helping customers and students find their musical way around our store and studios.

Get Started - Elizabeth

Elizabeth was here for the summer visiting her grandmother and taking guitar lessons with guitar/piano teacher, Joe Payne. This inspiring, enthusiastic young lady is truly focused on her goals and her future. Enjoy!

Get Started - Ron Leverett

Ron wanted to start learning to play guitar. He's not a kid anymore, but that hasn't kept him from following his desire, and he's having a lot of fun doing it. Ron takes guitar lessons from Justin Pecot at Music Motive in San Luis Obispo, CA.

Drew Littlejohns

Feb 14, 2020

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I had an emergency with my kids and had to cancel lessons. They refunded my order without being asked and were very helpful. Five star customer service! Thanks

Jacques Drazsnzak

Jun 17, 2019

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My daughters both take singing lessons at Music Motive and I have taken drum lessons. My drumming instruction, Dale, is highly skilled, patient, funny, and excellent at making complicated ideas simple. Both my daughters have enjoyed their lessons.

John Neugent

Jun 14, 2017

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Great instructors and friendly staff. Great place to learn music no matter what you're looking for.

Brent Wells

May 22, 2017

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Great teachers. My son has drums with wyatt in their paso studio, and all our experiences have been nothing but exceptional with all their teachers as well as management. We've also hado our daughter's in piano and voice. Great operation.

Kelsey Kennedy

May 17, 2017

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These people are the real deal. Kind, professional, talented, and dedicated. My kids have had lessons here for a few years and I can't recommend them enough. Excellent instructors and competent, friendly staff. RAWK!

Jeff Andrews

Jun 22, 2016

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This is a great place for musical instrument or singing training. Also if you need instruments or accessories, the prices are comparable to online retailers such as Amazon. Buy here and support local business. The instructors we've worked with are top notch and work well with kids. My son loves learning to play the drums.

Scott B.

Mar 22, 2015

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We have taken our son here to drum lessons and guitar lessons. He really enjoys the teachers he has had and gets a lot from the lessons. This place is convenient because they are close to Paso Robles. They also have a popular class on bucket drum playing. I've seen their group perform many places. I recommend this place.

Paden H.

Sep 19, 2012

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Steve and Stefanie have created an incredible presence on the Central Coast. They are passionate about music, and giving kids the opportunity to thrive. They provide private lessons for kids and adults, they have a performance group of young kids who raise money for scholarships for people who can't afford lessons. Best of all they are in 23 local schools teaching 40 classes throughout the Central Coast. I am very passionate about this music school and .