FAQs
Here are my responses to some FAQs:
At what age should my child start?
Most children are ready by seven years old. However, some will happily apply themselves at a younger age, and it may be worth making inquiries.Am I too old?
Adults often progress extremely well and enjoy the experience.The beginning stages are not so important, are they?
It is like building a house. Each skill you acquire is built on top of the first techniques you learn. It takes a lot longer to put things right later, than it does to learn correctly from the outset.Will I learn faster with extra lessons?
For the vast majority of musicians, practice time is needed to consolidate what has been learnt in the lesson.Will I learn faster with two teachers?
If the teachers have two different methods, the student may become confused. If their methods are the same, you are paying twice for the same thing!How can I learn more quickly?
Practise thoroughly and accurately, regularly. Avoid short cuts, and lay firm foundations. Many hares have ultimately been overtaken by tortoises!How fast should I be progressing?
What is the range of abilities in a school classroom, or in a family? Can everyone be like Mozart, composing at the age of 5? The important thing is to learn properly, at the pace that is best for you. Quality daily practice makes a big difference and is often the first thing to examine if you are concerned.How important is it to practise?
Practice is the oxygen of the musician.How much should I practise?
I recommend 4 or 5 days a week of careful practice, covering lesson material twice each day. This may not take long in the early stages, but ensures progress. One marathon session at the weekend is of far less benefit.How can I encourage my child to practise more?
Positive comments - leave the rest to the teacher! A daily practice schedule can work well. Avoid interruptions or distractions during practice.I am not musical. How can I help my child?
This does not matter. Be encouraging, and if you have any queries then talk to the teacher.My child is playing other things. Is that OK?
As long as the set lesson material is being practised, diversity is usually a very good thing, and a sign of enjoyment of the instrument.My child can play a grade 1 piece without having learnt a note of music. Are they gifted?
This is possible with people who have a particularly good ear and memory. However, in order to develop towards higher levels, it is necessary to learn to read music.Could I do fortnightly lessons?
For a child, a fortnight without anything new to practise on a regular basis is likely to lead to boredom. It may, however suit some adults.Does it matter if I skip the harder bits?
Cutting corners is like missing bricks out of the foundation of a building. Be as thorough as you can and you will be glad in the future.Are exams necessary?
No, but it is always great to have a certificate to show that you have reached a certain standard. If unsure, the decision can be made later.Can I skip an exam grade?
For most piano and guitar students, the ABRSM graded exam system provides an appropriate progression at a suitable pace.What does ABRSM stand for?
The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, hosting music exams worldwide, with over 250,000 annually in the UK alone. UCAS points are accredited at higher grades.What instrument should I buy?
There are many considerations, according to your specific needs, and I would be very glad to discuss this with you. An appropriate choice will, of course, help your progress!