Lessons are taken weekly with any activities and learning objectives outlined in notes taken by the tutor during the lesson which are sent to the learner (via email, text or any other electronic means). Lessons can be taken every other week but learning will be much slower and the learner will connect far less with music in their life.

 

Lessons are 45 minutes long and must be finished by the time of the following lesson.

 

Lessons can be taken online or in person depening on the needs of the learner and the availabilty of the tutor. 

 

Lessons are £35 per lesson when take on their own with no other subscription.

 

We have blocks of 5 lessons available at £130.

 

We also have a subscription available for £78 per month, payable monthly for 3 lessons per month. 

 

Please see Terms & Conditions for deatils around any of these offers. 

 

You can make a payment by clicking here and selecting the type of lessons you want to purchase.

 

When you take lessons with us you aren't buying a specific subject or a particular tutor, you are buying time. 

 

This allows you to mix and match lessons with any subjects we offer across any academies we run. You can choose your own lesson schedule with a combination of different tutors and subject areas. 

 

We also offer a FREE first lesson for any of our subjects so you can try before you buy or commit to anying. 

 

If you would like to take lessons but don't have the right resourcecs or equipment just let us know as we provide an inexpenive hire scheme for any of our learners. Take your pic from:

 

• Pianos
• Guitars
• Tablets
• Device Holders
• Stands

 

We have a schedule of lesson breaks throught the year to allow tutors time away from lessons and to allow learners time away from learning. 

 

Our breaks timetable is scheduled to accomodate the majority of learners and can't always coincide with everyones own holidays and breaks. 

 

Any breaks are planned to allow for any monthly sunscribers their allocated lessons each month however if learners aren't able to take up the lessons which are scheduled, they need to let us know as soon as possible. 

 

Full Terms and Conditions can be found here.

 

We suggest timing very short, concentrated periods of training to get the most out of learning. Use an egg timer (someting you can twist with an audiable ticking) and set it to 5 minutes. Focus on a small, focussed aspedt of practice and once the timer runs out STOP doing the activity and walk away - do something physical like walk around the block. Do this as often as you can to maintain motivation and focus and you'll be surprised at how much more training you'll be able to fit in between lessons. 

 

Gone are the days of marathon practice sessions lasting hours on end. The latest research in cognitive science suggests that shorter, focused practice sessions can be more effective than extended ones. Here are some compelling reasons why incorporating short bursts of practice can help you make remarkable strides on your musical journey:

 

Increased Focus and Concentration

When practicing for long periods, it's natural for our attention to wane. In contrast, short practice sessions demand heightened focus and concentration. By allocating a specific time window for practice, you are more likely to give your undivided attention to the task at hand, leading to more efficient learning.

 

Preventing Burnout

Long, exhausting practice sessions can lead to burnout and a decline in motivation. By breaking down your practice into shorter intervals, you prevent mental fatigue and maintain enthusiasm for the instrument. Consistency is key, and short bursts of practice allow for a steady and sustainable learning pace.

 

Memory Consolidation

Our brains process and consolidate information during rest and sleep. By spacing out practice sessions, you give your brain the necessary time to encode what you've learned, making it easier to recall and apply the knowledge during subsequent sessions.

 

Deliberate Practice

Short bursts of practice lend themselves well to the concept of deliberate practice. Rather than mindlessly repeating the same passages, deliberate practice involves focusing on specific challenges, analyzing errors, and working on targeted improvements. Short practice sessions encourage this deliberate approach, leading to more effective and purposeful progress.

 

Adaptability to Busy Schedules

In today's fast-paced world, finding extended periods for practice can be challenging. Short practice sessions offer the advantage of adaptability to busy schedules. Whether it's during a lunch break, a few minutes before bedtime, or any other spare moments, you can fit in valuable practice time without feeling overwhelmed.

 

Mastery of Complex Skills

Learning a musical instrument involves mastering a wide array of techniques. Short bursts of practice can help you tackle challenging skills more effectively. Breaking down complex passages into smaller parts and focusing on them individually can lead to greater mastery and fluency.

 

Overcoming Plateaus

Progress in learning an instrument isn't always linear. Many musicians encounter plateaus where they seem to stall in their improvement. Short, focused practice sessions can help break through these plateaus by providing a fresh perspective and renewed energy to overcome challenges.

 

Music, with its universal language, has the incredible ability to evoke emotions, spark memories, and transport us to different worlds. As music enthusiasts, we often find ourselves naturally drawn to specific genres that resonate with our tastes and preferences. While this connection can be deeply fulfilling, there's an equally enriching experience in exploring and connecting with styles that may lie outside our comfort zone. Opening our ears to a wide variety of music and learning to play different styles can help us foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the art form.

 

Diversifying Your Playlist

The first step in connecting with different styles of music is to diversify your playlist. Break away from your usual favorites and explore genres that you may not have considered before. Whether it's jazz, classical, hip-hop, electronic, country, or world music, each genre has its unique charm and historical significance. Dive into the roots of the genre, learn about its pioneers, and explore the evolution of the style over time. By understanding the context and history, you'll gain valuable insights into the cultural and societal aspects that influenced its creation.

 

Actively Listen and Analyze

Listening actively is crucial in developing an appreciation for various styles. Instead of merely letting the music play in the background, take the time to concentrate on the nuances and intricacies of the composition. Pay attention to the instrumentation, rhythm, melody, and the emotions conveyed. Listen for the characteristics that make each style distinct. You'll begin to notice patterns, commonalities, and differences that can help you see the beauty in even the genres that didn't initially resonate with you.

 

Learning to Play Different Styles

Learning to play music is an exceptional way to deepen your connection with various styles. When you engage with an instrument, you gain a more profound understanding of the music's structure, complexity, and technicalities. Whether you choose to learn a classical piece on the piano, a blues riff on the guitar, or a rhythm on traditional drums, the act of playing connects you to the soul of the music in a unique way.

 

As you become proficient in playing a diverse range of styles, you'll notice something incredible happening: your horizons will expand, and your appreciation for all music will grow. The process of learning different styles helps you develop empathy and respect for musicians who excel in those genres. It also nurtures your creativity, as you might find yourself borrowing elements from different styles to create something entirely new and unique.

 

Seeking Live Performances and Workshops

Attending live performances and workshops can be a transformative experience. Seeing skilled musicians perform in their element brings the music to life and allows you to witness the passion and dedication behind their craft. If possible, interact with the performers, ask questions, and gain insights into their artistic journey. Such interactions can provide you with a fresh perspective and enhance your connection with the music.

 

Embrace the Journey

Connecting with different styles of music is not an overnight process. It's a journey of discovery, exploration, and growth. Embrace the unfamiliarity and give yourself time to let the music seep into your soul. You may not immediately fall in love with every style you encounter, but with an open mind and heart, you will discover a treasure trove of artistry waiting to be appreciated.

 

We suggest trying to practice for the amount of time you have during a lesson but spread out over the period between lessons (in most cases, a week). You can break that into 5 minute increments or one solid block of time as your schedule permits. 

 

To make learning as enjoyable and as effective as possible we focus on specific training plans which we use in our lessons as well as advising to use between lessons. 

 

Take a look at our full list of training plans HERE.

 

Active listening is a technique that allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the music, fostering a richer and more meaningful experience. In this article, we will explore the techniques to practice active listening and the rewards it brings.

 

Techniques for Active Listening

 

1. Create the Right Environment: Find a comfortable and quiet space where you can dedicate your full attention to the music. Minimize distractions and let the music take center stage.

2. Use Quality Headphones or Speakers: High-quality audio equipment can make a significant difference in the listening experience, capturing nuances and subtleties that might otherwise be missed.

3. Focus on the Music: Close your eyes or let your gaze soften, redirecting your attention from external stimuli to the soundscape created by the music.

4. Engage Your Mind: Rather than letting your mind wander, actively engage with the music. Pay attention to the melody, harmonies, rhythm, and instruments used in the composition.

5. Notice the Details: Listen for the intricacies of the music, such as the layering of instruments, the subtle shifts in dynamics, and the emotions conveyed through the vocals or instrumentals.

6. Follow the Journey: Many songs have a story or progression. Try to follow the narrative of the music, understanding the emotions and intentions behind each segment.

7. Embrace the Silence: Pay attention to the moments of silence between notes and phrases. These pauses are just as essential to the music as the sounds themselves.

 

What to Expect from Active Listening

 

1. Deeper Emotional Connection: Active listening allows you to connect with the emotions expressed in the music on a profound level. Whether it's joy, sadness, or introspection, you'll feel a stronger bond with the music's intended message.

2. Enhanced Music Appreciation: By actively listening, you gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and skill involved in creating the music. You'll start noticing elements you might have previously overlooked, enriching your understanding of the composition.

3. Stress Reduction and Relaxation: Immersing yourself in the world of music can be a form of meditation, offering an escape from the stresses of daily life and promoting relaxation.

4. Improved Concentration: Active listening requires focus and presence, which can help enhance your overall concentration and mindfulness.

5. Inspiration and Creativity: Engaging deeply with music can spark your creativity and serve as a source of inspiration for various artistic pursuits.

6. Heightened Sense of Well-being: Studies have shown that active music listening can release dopamine and endorphins, contributing to an increased sense of well-being and happiness.

 

Active listening is a technique that allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the music, fostering a richer and more meaningful experience. In this article, we will explore the techniques to practice active listening and the rewards it brings.

 

Techniques for Active Listening

 

1. Create the Right Environment: Find a comfortable and quiet space where you can dedicate your full attention to the music. Minimize distractions and let the music take center stage.

2. Use Quality Headphones or Speakers: High-quality audio equipment can make a significant difference in the listening experience, capturing nuances and subtleties that might otherwise be missed.

3. Focus on the Music: Close your eyes or let your gaze soften, redirecting your attention from external stimuli to the soundscape created by the music.

4. Engage Your Mind: Rather than letting your mind wander, actively engage with the music. Pay attention to the melody, harmonies, rhythm, and instruments used in the composition.

5. Notice the Details: Listen for the intricacies of the music, such as the layering of instruments, the subtle shifts in dynamics, and the emotions conveyed through the vocals or instrumentals.

6. Follow the Journey: Many songs have a story or progression. Try to follow the narrative of the music, understanding the emotions and intentions behind each segment.

7. Embrace the Silence: Pay attention to the moments of silence between notes and phrases. These pauses are just as essential to the music as the sounds themselves.

 

What to Expect from Active Listening

 

1. Deeper Emotional Connection: Active listening allows you to connect with the emotions expressed in the music on a profound level. Whether it's joy, sadness, or introspection, you'll feel a stronger bond with the music's intended message.

2. Enhanced Music Appreciation: By actively listening, you gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and skill involved in creating the music. You'll start noticing elements you might have previously overlooked, enriching your understanding of the composition.

3. Stress Reduction and Relaxation: Immersing yourself in the world of music can be a form of meditation, offering an escape from the stresses of daily life and promoting relaxation.

4. Improved Concentration: Active listening requires focus and presence, which can help enhance your overall concentration and mindfulness.

5. Inspiration and Creativity: Engaging deeply with music can spark your creativity and serve as a source of inspiration for various artistic pursuits.

6. Heightened Sense of Well-being: Studies have shown that active music listening can release dopamine and endorphins, contributing to an increased sense of well-being and happiness.

 

Download the Zoom desktop client HERE. 

 

The Spitfire Audio App, previously known as the "Spitfire Audio Library Manager" is the downloader application for their instrument libraries. 

 

Download the Spitfire Audio app HERE. 

 

 

All products are a recommendation only and you should research independantly to make sure the item works for you and your needs. 

 

FOR LESSONS

If you're taking online lessons you'll need to allow the online tutor to see what you're doing on your instrument. That means you'll need to position whatever camera you're using in the correct place (the tutor will help you with that). 

 

Phone Holder (always check the sizing)

Tablet Holder (Always check the sizing)

Keyboard Stand (make sure you can get it to the height you require)

 

INSTRUMENTS

Starting out with an instrument is important if you're going to carry on with it. The first instrument you get can shape the amount of training and progress you can make so make sure you research this for your own needs. 

 

Folding Piano (88 keys)

Starter Guitar (smaller size for kids)

Acoustic Guitar (full size)

 

FOR HOME STUDIO

The right equipment is essential for a professional sound to your work. If you have a home studio (or if you're planning on putting one together) then these are some suggested items to add to your list. 

 

Microphone (Shure SM7B)

Microphone (MV7)

Mic Preamp

Digital Interface (DI with 1 input)

Digital Interface (DI with 2 inputs)

Monogram Controllers (programmable controllers for MIDI etc.)

 

 

 

FREE PLAYER FOR KONTAKT INSTRUMENTS

• Free sample player based on KONTAKT 7
• Hosts a huge selection of Native Instruments and third-party instruments
• Also includes free bundle with 2,000 sounds and 6 GB of content

Komplete Start pack download HERE. 

 

Our Scales & Arpeggio Milestones are designed to teach and assess practical performance of basic fundamentals. We use pairs of keys and exercises appropriate to the instrument you are learning. These are practical milestones, however they are complimented Theory milestones.

 

CLICK HERE to go to the Music Milestone Scales & Arpeggio page. 

 

Our PERFORMANCE Milestones are designed to teach and assess practical performance of pieces of music of varying difficulty. We have different awards for pieces of different difficulty level as well as to compliment the Grade assessments by ABRSM.

 

CLICK HERE to go to the Performance Milestone Page.

 

Our COMPOSITION Milestones are designed to guide and assess the application of composition techniques. We use lengths of composition as a benchmark and encourage focus on the application of theory to writs well structured, thought through pieces.

 

CLICK HERE to go to the Composition Milestone Page. 

 

Our THEORY Milestones are designed to teach and assess theretical tools and concepts. We have a variety of different focus areas to consider from vocabulary to scales and arpeggios. We believe that a strong knowledge of theory can underpin success in Scales, Arpeggios, Composition and Performance.

 

CLICK HERE to go to the Theory Milestone page. 

 

We use the ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) are our prefered examination board. We support 2 types of Grade examination:

 

 

Performance Grades

 

Performance Grades are available at Grades 1 to 8 for a wide range of instrumental and singing subjects, plus Initial Grade for Piano and Bowed Strings.

These digital exams focus on performance. They are assessed from a video recording and are available on demand. There  are no booking periods or exam sessions. Instead, you can book, pay and submit the exam video whenever you’re ready. You can submit the video when you book or at any time during the following 28 days.

 

Online Music Theory

 

It’s never been easier to take a Music Theory exam at Grades 1 to 5.

Our on-demand Music Theory exams give you the best opportunity to demonstrate your musical knowledge and understanding, when and where you choose.

 

 

 

Music Theory Grades 1 - 5 fees:

 

Grade 1	37 GBP
Grade 2	40 GBP
Grade 3	44 GBP
Grade 4	48 GBP
Grade 5	51 GBP

 

Performance Grades 1 - 8 fees:

 

Initial Performance Grade	44 GBP
Performance Grade 1	48 GBP
Performance Grade 2	55 GBP
Performance Grade 3	63 GBP
Performance Grade 4	69 GBP
Performance Grade 5	75 GBP
Performance Grade 6	87 GBP
Performance Grade 7	93 GBP
Performance Grade 8	110 GBP
ARSM	186 GBP

 

Please notes these do not take into account our tuition fees and may vary as time goes on. For the most up to date information please go to the ABRSM fees page HERE. 

 

The tables below show the marking criteria used by examiners (in all exams except Singing).

 

Marking principles

In each element of the exam, ABRSM operates the principle of marking from the required pass mark positively or negatively, rather than awarding marks by deduction from the maximum or addition from zero.

In awarding marks, examiners balance the extent to which the qualities and skills listed below (broadly categorized by pitch, time, tone, shape and performance) are demonstrated and contribute towards the overall musical outcome.

 

Total marks

Practical graded music exams are marked out of a total of 150, with:

• 100 marks required for a Pass
• 120 marks required for a Merit
• 130 marks required for a Distinction

 

A Pass in each individual section of the exam is not required to pass overall.

Mark	Pitch	Time	Tone	Shape	Performance
Distinction 27–30	Highly accurate notes and intonation	Fluent, with flexibility where appropriate Rhythmic character well conveyed	Well projected Sensitive use of tonal qualities	Expressive, idiomatic musical shaping and detail	Assured Fully committed Vivid communication of character and style
Merit 24–26	Largely accurate notes and intonation	Sustained, effective tempo Good sense of rhythm	Mainly controlled and consistent Good tonal awareness	Clear musical shaping, well-realised detail	Positive Carrying musical conviction Character and style communicated
Pass 20-23	Generally correct notes Sufficiently reliable intonation to maintain tonality	Suitable tempo Generally stable pulse Overall rhythmic accuracy	Generally reliable Adequate tonal awareness	Some realisation of musical shape and/or detail	Generally secure, prompt recovery from slips Some musical involvement
Below Pass 17-19	Frequent note errors Insufficiently reliable intonation to maintain tonality	Unsuitable and/or uncontrolled tempo Irregular pulse Inaccurate rhythm	Uneven and/or unreliable Inadequate tonal awareness	Musical shape and detail insufficiently conveyed	Insecure, inadequate recovery from slips Insufficient musical involvement
13-16	Largely inaccurate notes and/or intonation	Erratic tempo and/or pulse	Serious lack of tonal control	Musical shape and detail largely unrealised	Lacking continuity No musical involvement
10-12	Highly inaccurate notes and/or intonation	Incoherent tempo and/or pulse	No tonal control	No shape or detail	Unable to continue for more than a short section
0	No work offered	No work offered	No work offered	No work offered	No work offered

 

Preparation Guidelines

 

• With the help of your teacher, choose pieces that you really like. Practise them slowly at first. Careful preparation at this stage will make the final performance so much better.
• After the initial stages, practise your pieces right through without stopping and get in the habit of going on immediately if you do make a slip. Be brave and play them through to family or friends to help build up your confidence.
• Practise page-turns where these occur and try to memorise the first few bars of the next page to help your confidence. Difficulties with page-turning, however, will not actually affect the mark.
• In most cases you are allowed to photocopy a page of your piece for the exam where it will help to overcome an awkward page-turn. Organise this in advance and practise putting the photocopy in the right position on the music stand.
• If you are a string, wind or singing candidate make sure you are familiar with the accompaniment, particularly the introduction if there is one, and try to find time to rehearse with your accompanist beforehand.

 

CLICK HERE to book an exam. You'll need to register if you haven't done a grade before. 

 

Submitting a video

• Candidates no longer need to show a programme form to the camera at the start of the exam recording.
• Instead you will be asked to enter the programme details when submitting the video. 
• If you have already recorded a video with a programme form you can still use it after 8 March 2023, but you will also have to complete an online form when submitting the video.

 

How will the online programme form work?

• When you are ready to submit the video, log in and select the exam.
• When you come to the programme form screen, enter the pieces or songs in the order they were performed, giving the list number (if relevant), composer and title and indicating whether it is own choice or not.
• If there is a syllabus overlap option, you should also indicate if you are using the previous or current syllabus. 
• Click submit and complete the declaration before uploading the video.

 

No other changes

We are not making any other changes. At the start of the video, before their performance,candidates must still:

• Announce their name, subject, grade and the pieces or songs to be performed
• Show the opening of their own choice music to the camera
• Show photo ID if required

 

A Programme Slip can help order the introduction to your video - you can download and print one HERE.