ivory and brass

FAQ

Why learn a musical instrument?

There are many benefits to learning a musical instrument. Music provides you with an enjoyable and fun hobby and for some a future career. It can be a wonderful skill which will last a lifetime. There are also many links between learning a musical instrument and heightened intelligence. If a child has low esteem it can give them more confidence and increase their concentration levels. Music also reinforces many subjects studied at school such as maths and reading skills. There is also a good social aspect to learning a musical instrument as pupils may go on to join musical ensembles and youth orchestras.

I am looking for a piano/brass teacher, do you teach all ages and at what age could lessons start?

Yes, I teach children and adults of all ages. For piano the earliest I would suggest they start would be 6 years old and for brass around 9 or 10 years old. However every child is different and if they are extremely keen and have a musical ear they could start earlier.

Do I need a piano?

Yes, I would suggest a regularly tuned piano in good working order or a weighted keyboard.

Do I need my own Horn/Trumpet/Trombone?

Yes, you will certainly need your own instrument to practise on. There are a number of excellent music shops in and around Glasgow which I can advise you on.

Can you travel to me?

Due to Covid-19 lessons are currently available online through Zoom and Skype .

I normally teach at home. In special circumstances I could travel to you but prices would differ from my standard rates to cover travelling time and petrol.

Can I sit in on my child's lesson?

Parents are actively encouraged to sit in and listen to lessons. I find that parental support and encouragement is beneficial to the child’s learning process.

How long does it take to prepare for an exam?

Every pupil is different and it depends on how much time they are willing to devote to practice. At the early grades if they are keen and have a good musical ear they can progress quickly but the more advanced grades take longer to prepare for. A good, steady rate of progress is one grade per year.

Where are you based?

In North West Glasgow overlooking leafy parkland and the Campsie Fells.

french horn

"Without music life would be a mistake" (Friedrich Nietzsche)