FAQs
Below are some of the questions we are often asked:
What sort of music do you teach?
We study an incredibly broad range of music with our pupils that is directed by the individual pupil’s tastes and interests. Our pupils are always welcome to request a song they would like to learn, and we make every effort to find the score or alternatively we often create arrangements of the specific song so that we can mould it to their level and ability.
How long will it be before I can play well?
There is a very simple correlation between how hard you work and how quickly you will improve. Natural musicality is a myth! The greatest ingredients a student can have is enthusiasm and determination.
Can I help my child to progress more quickly?
Yes! As we have said before, practise is crucial to your child improving. Whether you are a musician yourself, or whether you don’t know the first thing about music, you can support your child through showing an interest and giving them your time.
- Give them lots of praise for their efforts (and not for getting all the notes right). “Wow I’m so impressed with how you are trying to conquer that really tricky bit”
- Help them to try again and learn that if they cannot do something straight away, that does not mean they will never be able to
- For younger students, try a fun sticker chart for their practise at home
- Tell them how much you enjoy listening to them i.e. “I would love to hear your song while I’m making tea, it is so relaxing’
- Always offer encouragement and be happy to listen to them play. Friends and families can be a great support network to help boost their confidence and take pride in their playing.
Children can find it so difficult to sit by themselves and practise so even just sitting next to them while they practise will be a great help, as they will try hard to impress you and seek your praise.
For parents who know little about music let your child teach you something that they are learning. It will help reinforce their knowledge, and they will think it is great fun teaching Mum or Dad something! Children find it hilarious being the ‘teacher’ and it helps them to feel confident and clever in their musical ability.
Will I be learning about music theory?
We seamlessly weave the rudiments of music theory into our lessons as it is fundamental to your overall understanding and grasp of music. ABRSM require Grade 5 Theory in order to take Grade 6 and above on an instrument. We can study this alongside your practical studies. We also have lots of students that bring their GCSE music to us when they need help.
I already play another instrument. Will that interfere with learning the piano?
Quite the opposite. Learning a second instrument will be much easier than learning the first as there are so many aspects you will already know and understand (i.e. being able to read music, timing, musicianship). Just ensure you have to the time to commit to learning it amongst your other instruments or hobbies/clubs.