Classes & Courses
Initial Steps in Music
These classes will suit a completely new beginner, young child, teenager or adult. It assumes you know nothing or very little about music and playing an instrument. We'll work on the basics of technique, hand co-ordination, dexterity, reading music, aural skills and rhythm. The focus will be on fun and reinforcing the essential components of learning an instrument. The classes will soon have you playing simple melodies and should you choose to do so, you'll be well on your way to completing a Prep Test and/or initial examination. ​
Developing Core Musical Skills - Grades 1-3
In these classes, we will build upon the musical skills you already have. We will develop your repertoire and study much more in depth musical theory - including key signatures, time signatures etc. Music will be further placed into historical context and as you are progressing, a wider range of styles and genres will be taught, including contemporary music, simple jazz, musicals and chord formations. Again, classes are 30 minutes long and will cater for your interests. To demonstrate progression, we encourage graded examinations. Progress at this level is steady and lessons will be as varied as possible to allow you to develop your overall skills and keep you motivated. ​
Intermediate Studies - Grades 4-5
This is a great stage to be at! The pieces taught are more complex, and your family and friends will be impressed. Not only will you be able to play classical repertoire, we'll encourage you to explore what styles and genres appeal to you. More complex theory will be examined, aural skills will be refined, and listening developed to a higher standard. Technical exercises such as scales and arpeggios, can sometimes be perceived as dull and boring. Our approach however, will enable you to become dextrous and articulate, and most importantly in a fun way. There will be further opportunities for public performance and also ensemble playing.
Advanced Musicianship - Grades 6-8
By now, you'll be well on your way to becoming an independent learner and you'll be able to read music. Classes for advanced musicians last 45 minutes since there is so much more to be covered. It is now not only about "the notes" but trying to further develop expression and emotion in your playing. The demands of the music will be much harder and more time will be required for practice too. Technical exercises will further enhance your ability, leading to more advanced repertoire. At this stage, you will have passed Grade 5 theory, and so concepts such as chord progressions, cadences, and more complex harmony will be examined within your pieces. In addition to this, we will contextualise the repertoire you are playing within a historical framework. We will encourage you to broaden your knowledge and musical comprehension by listening to and partaking in as many live performances as possible.
Diploma and Professional Performance
​​At this stage of your musical journey, you will be a very advanced musician. To further improve your technique and musicianship, we will explore a wider repertoire and different styles. We will challenge you to further develop your own performance artistry. You may want to consider a higher qualification such as one of the performance diplomas -- ARSM, LRSM, and FRSM.
By now, you will be taking music much more seriously. Whether it's for pleasure or a potential career, we will encourage, support, enthuse and guide your development. There will be further solo and ensemble performance opportunities. You may even want to explore composing your own music, and we can support this endeavour too. This level is rigorous and demanding, and as such we will help you with practice plans and routines. We will further refine your technique, as well as giving you strategies for posture and relaxation. Within the context of specific repertoire, we will examine the minutiae of the music which will elevate your playing further.​​​​
Theory Classes (in-person and online)
Learning any musical instrument goes hand-in-hand with learning music theory. It is a fundamental component on your musical journey. As you progress, you will see how the two seamlessly intertwine. Our approach to theory starts with the very basics. No matter what level you're at, we will provide fun exercises, as well as graded examples to improve your knowledge. We teach ABRSM theory grades 1-8. Learning face-to-face isn't always an option, and so with this in mind, we have developed a seamless online theory experience. These lessons can be taught at a time of your convenience. Some students particularly of the more advanced levels will need a more bespoke programme and we are happy to tailor this to your needs.
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Music Appreciation
Music is so good for mental health and well being. We offer bespoke sessions where various musical genres are explored. This class has been designed for those who do not want to study for exams, or even be able to play an instrument. Rather, it is for those who have an interest in classical music and would like to learn more about it. Who were the Great Composers? What made them great? What music is used in TV adverts that keeps going around your head? What's the tune you always find yourself singing? We will explore music from the early Baroque era through to contemporary music. This class is more about sitting back, relaxing, finding out about music and plenty listening! A journal is kept by the student to record their thoughts and feelings about the music they're listening to. It's a great option for those who want to know more without the demands of daily practice and usually suits adults more so than children. There's a lot of listening and journal keeping, as well as going to live concerts, usually at Symphony Hall Birmingham, but also further afield.
GCSE, BTEC & A Level Music Classes
Support for GCSE and A Level Music are available. Depending on the Board that your School/College is using, we will plan lessons accordingly. Suffice to say that we will study musical theory, harmony and develop your aural skills. In addition, we will help you prepare for your performance exam. We will also take you through the main aspects of music history, composers and study your set works. This obviously will be carefully planned when you bring us a copy of your syllabus. Any particular weaknesses you have and need support with, will also form part of your lessons. These lessons last an hour.