How to Build a DIY Music Learning Curriculum

Can’t afford music lessons or just prefer to go at your own pace? You’re not alone—and you’re not at a disadvantage.

In fact, with the right strategy and a bit of structure, self-taught musicians can achieve serious results. Building your own music curriculum gives you the freedom to focus on what inspires you, while still making well-rounded progress.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build a DIY music learning plan that works, whether you're learning guitar, piano, voice, or even music production.

1. Start with Clear Musical Goals

You can’t build a path without knowing where you want to go.

Ask yourself:

• Do I want to play songs casually for fun?
• Am I aiming to perform live or record music?
• Do I want to write my own songs or beats?

Having a direction will help you focus on the skills that matter most—whether that’s fingerstyle guitar, music theory, vocal control, or DAW mastery.

Tip: Use the SMART goal system (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to create focused outcomes.

SMART goal setting from APA

2. Break Your Learning into Skill Pillars

A strong DIY curriculum isn’t just about learning songs—it’s about building the foundation that supports everything you play.

Here are five essential pillars:

Technique

• Scales, finger exercises, chord transitions, breath control—whatever physically applies to your instrument.

Theory

• Understand what you’re doing. Learn chords, scales, rhythm, key signatures, time signatures, and form.
• Explore MusicTheory.net for free, interactive lessons.

Ear Training

• Learn to recognize intervals, melodies, and chords by ear. This sharpens your intuition and improves improvisation.

Repertoire

• This is where you apply your skills—playing or singing music that challenges and excites you.

Creativity

• Improvise, write your own music, remix beats—whatever fuels your expression.

3. Curate the Right Learning Tools

You don’t need a fancy course—just smart resource selection based on your learning style.

Here’s what many self-taught musicians rely on:

YouTube Channels

• Rick Beato (theory, production, analysis)
• Marty Music (guitar)
• Pianote (piano, song-based tutorials)

See also: Top 10 YouTube Channels for Learning Guitar Right Now

Apps & Platforms

• Yousician, Simply Piano, or Fender Play for guided lessons
• Tenuto for music theory and ear training drills
• Soundtrap or BandLab for songwriting and production

Books

• Hal Leonard Method Series
• Alfred’s Basic Piano Library
• The Musician’s Way by Gerald Klickstein

4. Create a Weekly Practice Structure

Structure builds momentum. Here’s a flexible weekly layout you can adapt to any instrument:

• Monday – Technique + a favorite song
• Tuesday – Theory + ear training
• Wednesday – Repertoire + improvisation or jamming
• Thursday – Technique + light review
• Friday – Record yourself or review a difficult section
• Weekend – Creative time: write, produce, collaborate, or catch up

Don’t focus on perfection. Even 20–30 minutes daily is enough if you show up consistently.

5. Track Your Progress (Visibly)

One of the biggest dangers of going solo? Losing track of your wins.

Keep a practice log or video diary where you:

• Write down what you practiced
• Rate your focus and energy level
• Record yourself monthly to hear improvement

Even if it feels slow, progress compounds—and looking back is one of the best motivators.

6. Join a Community (Even If You're Self-Taught)

You don’t have to learn alone. The internet is full of free music learning communities where you can:

• Get feedback
• Ask questions
• Share recordings
• Stay inspired

Try:

• Reddit’s r/guitar or r/musictheory
• Music Discord servers
• TikTok challenges or Instagram practice reels
• Local jam groups or meetup apps

Learning tip: Listening to others—even those at your level—can unlock breakthroughs you didn’t know you needed.

Final Thoughts: DIY Doesn’t Mean Disorganized

Building your own curriculum puts you in charge of your learning—but it doesn’t mean going in blind.

With structure, goals, and feedback loops, a DIY plan can rival traditional lessons. The key is to stay curious, stay consistent, and don’t isolate yourself. Growth takes time—but with the right system, you’ll go farther than you think.

More Resources to Support Your Learning

• How to Stay Motivated When Learning Music
• Practice Tips for People with No Musical Background
• Should You Learn One Instrument or Multiple?