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New Fall 2025 cohort now open — limited spots. Priority for Mississauga L5x postal codes.
Free Music Lessons • Mississauga

High‑quality music education at no cost for qualifying families

We believe every child deserves access to arts education. OPSMA is offering free weekly lessons for eligible low‑income families in Mississauga, funded by community donors and partners.

RCM‑aligned curriculum
Certified instructors
In‑person or online
Instruments available*

Who qualifies?

This program is designed for low‑income families living in Mississauga. Priority is given to first‑time learners, newcomers, and students without access to private lessons.

Income‑based

Household income below local thresholds (e.g., LIM). You can submit a recent Canada Child Benefit notice, CRA NOA, or OW/ODSP statement.

Residency

Resident of Mississauga (proof of address required). Priority for wards near our studio; applicants from nearby Peel are considered if space allows.

Student age

Students ages 5–17. Limited adult beginner spots may be available for parents/guardians—ask in your application.

How it works

Apply

Complete the short form with student details and proof of eligibility. We’ll confirm receipt instantly by email.

Placement

Our team matches each student to a teacher and schedule based on preferred instrument, level, and availability.

Begin lessons

Attend weekly lessons for the 8‑week term. We provide progress updates and optional recital opportunities.

Programs offered

Beginner and early‑intermediate curriculum aligned with RCM fundamentals. Group and 1:1 options based on instrument and demand.

Piano

Ages 6+

Technique, reading, rhythm games, and fun repertoire. Keyboards available for loan subject to supply.

Guitar

Ages 8+

Chords, strumming, and melodies. Acoustic and classical focus; beginner electrics allowed.

Voice

Ages 8+

Breathing, pitch, and performance confidence. Group warm‑ups and solo coaching.

Drums

Ages 9+

Groove, timekeeping, and coordination. Practice pads available for home use.

Violin

Ages 7+

Foundations in bow hold, posture, and ear training. Limited rental violins available via partners.

Online lessons

Flexible

Live video lessons for families who cannot commute. Same certified teachers, same curriculum.

Apply now

It takes about 5 minutes. If selected, we’ll contact you within 5–7 days with next steps and a start date.

Examples: financial hardship, newcomer family, single‑parent household, disability, etc.
Examples: CCB notice, CRA NOA, OW/ODSP, proof of address. You may submit after your interview.

Privacy: We use your information only to assess eligibility and manage lessons. We do not share personal data with third parties without consent. See our Privacy Policy.

What parents say

“Our family couldn’t afford lessons this year—this program opened the door. My daughter now practices every day.”

— S., Cooksville

“The teachers are patient and highly trained. The progress in just a few weeks is incredible.”

— M., Meadowvale

“As newcomers, this helped our kids connect and build confidence through music.”

— A., Erin Mills

Community partners & donors

We are grateful to local supporters who help expand access to the arts. Want to sponsor a student? Contact us.

Local businesses
Parent volunteers
Instrument donors
Cultural orgs

Frequently asked questions

Is it completely free?

Yes, for selected families. There are no tuition fees for the term. Optional recital fees or books may be covered upon request based on need.

How are students selected?

We review income eligibility, residency, student interest, and available teacher time. If demand exceeds space, a waitlist is created for the next cohort.

Do you provide instruments?

We have a limited pool of loaner instruments (keyboards, violins, practice pads). Availability is first‑come, first‑served and must be returned at term end.

What if we miss a lesson?

Please notify us 24 hours in advance to reschedule when possible. Repeated no‑shows may forfeit the spot so other families can participate.

Contact & location

OPSMA — Mississauga

Hurontario & Eglinton (Exact address provided upon acceptance)

Phone: (905) 929‑5955
Email: info@opsmamusic.ca

Hours: Mon–Fri 3–9 PM • Sat 9 AM–3 PM

Apply for free lessons