Frequently Asked Questions
What ages do we teach? And what is a good age to start lessons?
My child never practices should we stop the lessons?
The biggest question is...Do they enjoy the lesson? Nearly 98% of pupils that learn
instruments with us, don't practice, regardless of how cool the lessons are or how
relevant the song. So I've noticed as long as they enjoy the lessons then it's worth
continuing as they normally get to an age where all of a sudden it clicks and they
then never put the instrument down & you start nagging them to do something else !
We normally take pupils from 6 1/2 to 7 years old & the oldest pupil I've had was 93 years old (true story)
We've tried so many times over the years to take younger ones (5yrs) especially on the piano as there are many good books designed for that age but we honestly find it's just too early.
If there was a "best" age I think it's 9 but most pupils can't wait that long.
Adults can definitely learn too.
How do I get my child to practice?
Not an easy answer for this one, nagging doesn't work & even my own son regardless of how much he loved music & his instrument he never practiced. Firstly change the word "practice" to "play". Instead of "go and practice," try.... "go and play some songs". That's how we shape our lessons too by teaching and giving giving songs so....go and play those songs.
I also found if you let them know they have do do 10 minutes but let them choose when. Your job is to gentle check that they have actually done some of that during the week. If they start, they normally spend a lot longer than 10 minutes anyway but getting them to start is the hard part. But just like ourselves, sometimes we just don't feel like it.
What times are available?
Our timetable with the number of tutors we have is constantly changing, working around soccer practice or dancing this term then next term it's swimming and touch. So just make an inquiry and we can see what we have available that works for you. Once you start then you too are able to change times a lot easier once you know the tutor.
How Much are lessons?
Our current charges are
Individual = $32 per lesson
Shared lessons = $24 (2 pupils together)
Group lesson = $18 (3-5 pupils together)
Lessons are 30 minutes long & normally once a week
Should I start with shared, group or individual?
We offer the group lessons because of cost but also because it's a bit less intimidating for younger pupils. You will always learn a lot more in individual but the group lessons can be a nice social way to test out your skill without the cost.
Adults, start with individual. You need it & can handle it. Others starting with a group or a shared lesson is great, then when you see the value in it, step up to individual
How long will it take me to be good?
No answer for this really because everybody is so different...with their Genes or with how much time they can commit to practising. Normally the more you practice or "play" the better you get and quicker
Do I need an instrument?
Yes Yes Yes !!!! You can't learn an instrument without having one at home....& an ipad, is not even close to being an instrument. You'd be surprised at how many pupils think they can learn piano on an ipad.
Also, don't buy a toy...you think you're going to save money by getting a $40 guitar....but in actual fact you will just give up because the instrument is so bad. Trust me it's not worth it.
So stick to a music shop or if you are looking on line we are happy to help.