Question 1

Do you guide students for exams?

Accepted Answer

The short answer is: yes! We do however have requirements for students wishing to take the exam route, which includes ensuring a strong foundation in technique and fundamental concepts before enrolling in exams. We discourage fast tracked approaches that often leave students with poor technique, low grades, and incapable of easily playing music at their completed levels.

Question 2

How much practice do you require students to do each week?

Accepted Answer

We require an absolute minimum of 4 days (other than day of lesson) each week with length enough to thoroughly practice the tasks set out each week. Students enrolling in exams will need to practise a minimum 5-6 days depending on level. 
Please ensure you can dedicate this much time before considering lessons.

Note: this mostly applies to school age students and there is some flexibility here for adult students. This can be discussed further with the teacher.

Question 3

Do I need an instrument to start?

Accepted Answer

The first lesson (consultation) can be managed without your own instrument. Especially for young & growing students (bowed strings), it is important that the teacher can assess what size will be appropriate following their preferred sizing method. They can also provide guidance on buying or renting instruments. 
After the first lesson, it is best that you have an instrument as you will need to practise at home in order to progress in classes.

Question 4

What age students do you teach?

Accepted Answer

Jara accepts students from age 4 and up, however, due to differences in development, pre-school students will be assessed in a consultation. For students who are not ready for our method, we can offer alternatives to get started with music.

James accepts students from primary school age and up.

Question 5

Should I attend the lesson with my child?

Accepted Answer

For children under the age of 10, it is extremely beneficial if a parent is present to take notes, record videos, and understand what needs to be practised each week. When parents are positively involved in children's practise at home, we often see much faster rates of progress and a lower occurrence of unhelpful habits. 
For this to work, it is important that parents sit attentively and quietly as to not disrupt the flow of the class, reserving any questions for the end of class. 
If the child will be practising alone at home, it is best that they attend lessons alone as to not create distractions in the class.

Question 6

How can I motivate my child when practising at home?

Accepted Answer

First and foremost, create a positive experience. If a child is expecting negative comments or anxious about what will happen if they don't do well, it will have an impact on their motivation and enjoyment. Make sure to give your child lots of positive feedback about their playing, make them feel safe to make mistakes, and make a positive comment before mentioning what needs work. Additionally, if you hear that something does not sound correct but can't pinpoint why, avoid just saying "that sounds bad" or "that doesn't sound right". Instead, make a note or record what they are doing to ask the teacher.

Second, expose them to lots of music! At every opportunity, have music playing (especially of the instrument they are learning) and, if possible, take them to see live music.

If they are still having difficulty, talk to their teacher.

Question 7

How long will it take to reach an intermediate level?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Each student's musical journey is highly individual, influenced by factors like their maturity level, learning approach, exposure to music, parental involvement, and practice time. 
For example, to achieve preliminary grade level (AMEB) one student may take less than a year, while another may take 5 years (this is very rare and mostly a result of insufficient or ineffective practice). 
After a term or two, your teacher may offer a rough estimate based on your progress.

Question 8

How much is the lesson fee?

Accepted Answer

Our lesson fees are updated yearly in line with Music Teacher Association NSW recommendations. Please get in touch for our updated fee schedule.

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