FAQ

  • I’m already overwhelmed. How much time do I need?

    Most courses last under 30 minutes organized into short modules with individual lessons lasting 3-5 minutes each. You can learn in quick bursts, finish a course over a weekend, or revisit just the part you need before class.

  • What types of courses do you offer?

    We offer free and paid courses of different lengths: Micro-learning courses: ~10 minutes. Short courses: ~30-60 minutes. Long courses: 1 hour or more. Learning paths: A series of courses that lead to a PD certificate. New courses are added regularly, so check back often for additional topics.

  • What is the courses format?

    MusicFirst Academy courses are designed for flexible, self-paced learning. Lessons are short—typically 3–5 minutes each—and organized into modules within each course. Courses include a mix of videos, presentations, text explanations, downloadable resources, and quizzes to reinforce learning.

  • Do I need to be a tech expert to take these courses?

    Not at all. We start with the essentials and walk you through real classroom workflows step-by-step—no jargon, no assumptions.

  • Will this help me use the tools my school already purchased?

    Yes. Our software courses are designed to unlock the value of the licenses you already have so you can save time and see results with students right away.

  • How long will I have access to the course content?

    You will have indefinite access to the content of the courses you are enrolled in.

  • Do I need to be a current MusicFirst user to take these courses?

    No. While some courses are designed to support MusicFirst tools, many professional development courses are platform-agnostic or pedagogy-based and open to all music educators.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

    Access & Eligibility

  • Can I take Academy courses even if my school doesn’t use MusicFirst?
    Yes. Our professional learning courses focus on best practices in music education and teaching workflows that apply across settings.
  • Is this for classroom teachers only?
    No. Courses are useful for classroom teachers, instructional coaches, department chairs, technology integrators, and administrators supporting music programs.

    • Account & Technical Access

  • Do I need to create an account to take courses?
    You’ll need an Academy account to track progress, save courses, and earn certificates. Free courses also require an account. We highly suggest you create one with the same email address as your MusicFirst account if you are already a customer.
  • Can I access courses on my phone or tablet?
    Yes. The Academy is web-based and works on most modern devices. For the best experience, we recommend a desktop or laptop for software-based courses.
  • What happens if I stop a course midway?
    Your progress is automatically saved so you can pick up exactly where you left off.

    • Certificates, PD, and Documentation

  • Will I earn PD hours for the courses?
    PD hours are based on course length and are listed on eligible courses. Long courses and Learning Paths typically offer PD credit and certificates. Our Getting Started with MusicFirst course offers 0.5 hours of PD credit.
  • Will my district/state accept these PD hours?
    Acceptance varies by district and state. We provide certificates of completion with hour totals, which most educators submit for local approval.
  • Can I re-download my certificate later?
    Yes. Certificates remain available in your Academy account after course completion.

    • Pricing

  • Are there free options?

    Absolutely. You'll find a mix of free and paid courses. Start with a free course to see how the Academy fits your needs.

  • How much are the paid options?

    Courses are priced according to the value they provide as well as the length of the course. We will be offering different pricing options. Check out the course library for more information.

  • Are paid courses refundable?

    No, paid courses are non-refundable. 

    • Support & Help

  • What if I get stuck or have a question during a course?

    Support resources and contact options are available within the Academy. We're here to help and you can always contact us at [email protected]

  • Is there live support or coaching?

    The MusicFirst Academy is asynchronous and self-paced. If you want live assistance, MusicFist also offers paid live training and free 15-minute check ins.