Music lessons FAQs
Will I need to get my child an instrument?
Yes, your child will need an instrument, but we have many instruments available to hire. The prices for hiring an instrument with us are subsidised and are also free to students taking part in the ‘Music Explorers’ programme. If your child begins instrumental lessons after this programme they can borrow an instrument free of charge until the end of year six. You will be responsible for insuring and maintaining the instrument.
It is an especially good idea to hire string instruments as your child will quickly outgrow the different sizes. We have violins and cellos from 1/8th size and violas and double basses from ¼ size.
Please see our hiring an instrument page for more information.
Will my child need any books or music?
Yes, your child will need books and music sheets, but your child’s teacher will let you know which items to buy, and from where. Most books will last for the first year of learning and many have exam pieces included. Online music shops and retailers usually keep a stock of the most popular books which can be posted to you.
Will my child miss class time for their music lesson?
We run lessons during school time so it’s likely your child will likely miss some class time accordingly. However we do make every effort to ensure children have a rotating timetable, so they don’t miss the same class each week. Please click here to see how the benefits of learning an instrument actually help with class lessons.
How can I help my child learn?
Learning a musical instrument can be hard work at first. Your child will probably have an idea of what sound they want to make and may get frustrated until they get to grips with the new techniques they’re learning. You don’t need to be a musician to help – just an encouraging practice partner. Your child’s music teacher will write all the instructions in the Playing@Home diary which we supply free of charge.
Remind them to practise – just ten minutes per day at first will be enough for you both to hear progress. It’s normal for children to avoid practice. It doesn’t mean they want to give up, instead they just need support to keep up the hard work until they can play the way they want to.
Constant praise at the start is important. If you complain that the music they are making is ‘scratchy’ or ‘squeaky’, then your child will join the 70% of adults who regret not learning an instrument.
Create a reward system that encourages your child to pick up their instrument without reminding them. Making practice a normal part of their day will pay dividends later on.
Timetable your child’s practice at home. All our professional music teachers are aware of the pressures on young people at school. Ten minutes practice can be done before dinner or breakfast, after playtime, before TV or games console time etc. Leaving the instrument out can also be a helpful reminder, if there is a safe place.
It won’t be long until the habit of daily practice pays off. Musical talent is learnt and developed through lessons and practice. Contrary to what people believe, you’re not born with it!
How do I pay my bill?
We will issue an invoice, usually by email which will have all the necessary payment instructions. If your child’s music lessons are arranged through your school, you will receive payment instructions from your school office.
If I have a question about my invoice, who do I contact?
For any invoice enquires, please phone 01454 863147 or email musicservice@southglos.gov.uk
If my child misses a lesson, will I get a refund?
We must be informed at least seven days in advance if you have to cancel a lesson for any reason. This allows our teachers time to reschedule this lesson. If the required notice is not given, the lesson will be charged for and not rescheduled. We aim to provide at least 30 lessons per academic year for each child, so please be aware there will be some weeks when there is no instrumental lesson.