Learning an Instrument

HOW TO START

You need to choose a suitable instrument for you.

Before making any decisions it is important that you have an opportunity to see, hear and ‘have a go’ on the instrument that you are interested in learning. You need to do this so that you can see if you are suited to it.

You could:

¨ find a tape or CD at home or from the library to play.
¨ watch a TV programme featuring the instrument.
¨ visit a ‘live’ music event at school, in the community or at a theatre or concert hall.
¨ arrange to ‘have a go’ on the instrument at school or at a music shop.

The school has a very small stock of instruments - ask Mr Sagi if the one you want is available. If it isn't then you will need to supply your own - you could get your parents to buy you one but it is probably better to hire one first just in case you decide that it isn't for you. If you have county tuition then it may be possible for you to have an instrument from them. Ask to see if this is possible.

LESSONS AVAILABLE

We can currently offer individual and group tuition for the following instruments:-
FLUTE- CLARINET- OBOE- SAXOPHONE- VIOLIN
VIOLA- CELLO- DRUM KIT- PERCUSSION- TRUMPET - STEEL PANS
HORN -TROMBONE -ELECTRIC, BASS AND CLASSICAL GUITAR
PIANO- SINGING -ELECTRONIC KEYBOARD-RECORDER

All lessons take place during the normal school day. There is a rota system so that you should not miss the same lessons all the time. Timetables can be found here or on the music room notice board.

COST OF LESSONS

If you choose a group lesson (2/3 people) the cost is £4.90 per lesson. If you want individual lessons then the cost is £6.90 per lesson. There are usually 10-12 lessons per term and you will get a bill for the WHOLE AMOUNT at the beginning of that term. Cheques are made out to the school and paid into student services. What you pay is not the true cost - it costs the school more! .... but we pay the extra for you. You are expected to attend ensemble rehearsals because you will make more progress if you do so.

WHAT DO I DO NOW?

Once you have made a choice see Mr. Sagi or Miss Francis. You will get a form for your parents to fill in . Once this is returned lessons will begin as soon as possible. Sometimes you may have to wait for place to become available.

VERY IMPORTANT

Because we have to book and pay for staff to come and teach you, if you want to give up you must give us written notice from your parents of at least half a term. This means, for example, that if you decide to give up in October you would have to pay for lessons until the end of that term!! You cannot expect just to give up overnight and not pay for lessons that have been booked for you.

l.