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FAQs

Welcome to our FAQ page, where we address your most common questions and provide informative answers. Browse through our frequently asked questions to streamline your experience and get the information you're seeking quickly and efficiently. If you can't find what you're looking for, feel free to reach out for further assistance. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we're here to make your journey as smooth as possible.

  • What is the availability for violin/viola lessons?
    Our violin/viola lessons are highly sought after and get booked up quickly! Please get in touch to find out current availability. We look forward to hearing from you!
  • What is the availability for cello lessons?
    We are currently booked out for cello lessons. If you would like to join our waiting list, please send through your name and (if applicable) your child's name, level of music experience, and contact details. Alternatively, you can get in touch with Sarah Ingham in Hunters Hill on 0403 840 064 who may have availability.
  • What is the availability for piano lessons?
    Piano lessons are now offered privately by Marian Martinez in student's homes or online via Zoom. Please contact Marian on 0412 310 837 for pricing and availability. Marian's students are invited to participate in our annual end of year concert on the first weekend of December.
  • Do you guide students for exams?
    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.
  • How much practice do you require students to do each week?
    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 practice 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.
  • Do I need an instrument to start?
    For your first lesson (the consultation), we can go without. Especially for young 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.
  • What age students do you teach?
    Our lessons are suitable for all students above the age of 4. Note: there can be variability in student readiness at early ages and this will be assessed in the first lesson. If a young child does not appear ready for our method, we will recommend alternatives.
  • What other materials do I need?
    As a necessity, we recommend a music stand that will put your music at eye level to promote good posture. A tuner and metronome (apps and online versions are available for both) will be extremely helpful tools in your learning. If possible, we also highly recommend a mirror to use during practice to monitor technique (for students who are old enough to practice independently.
  • Should I attend the lesson with my child?
    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 very involved in children's practise at home, we often see much faster rates of progress and a lower occurrence of restrictive habits. For this to work, it is important that parents sit attentively and quietly as to not disrupt the flow of the class and take note of any questions for the end of class. If the child will be practising alone at home, it is best that they attend lessons lessons alone as to not create distractions in the class.
  • How can I motivate my child when practising at home?
    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, 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.
  • How long will it take to reach an intermediate level?
    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.
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