Woodwind basics Woodwind instruments vary widely in size, cost, weight, portability and other factors. These should all be taken into account when choosing one to learn. The following comparison is meant to help you select which may best suit both your preference and your logistical needs. Recorder This wind instrument is one of the mostContinue reading “Getting started: Woodwind lessons”
Category Archives: Teaching
Getting started: Lessons on stringed instruments
Want to learn to play a bowed string instrument? Your beginner string FAQs are answered here. Interested in learning to play the violin, viola, cello or bass, but not sure where to begin? Perhaps you are interested in buying an instrument, but did you know that you can rent instruments as well, and that thisContinue reading “Getting started: Lessons on stringed instruments”
ABRSM Clarinet Grade 1 scales and arpeggios practice play-alongs
To help students polish their scales and arpeggios, I have created a practice play-along routine. The way to use these recordings is very simple. I will play a passage notated in small notes and you will repeat it after me while keeping time. A couple of things to note: you can choose either to playContinue reading “ABRSM Clarinet Grade 1 scales and arpeggios practice play-alongs”
Feeling comfortable with sight-reading
Sight-reading is often one of the most worrying parts of an exam or performance; this fear of the unknown is hard to surpass even for the most experienced musicians. Luckily, there are a few things that we can do to prepare ourselves and use the adrenaline rush in a more positive sense. When boiled down,Continue reading “Feeling comfortable with sight-reading”
Learning how to play an instrument has no age limit!
Playing an instrument is an exciting idea, but learning how to do it often daunting, especially for adults. However, the fear of learning a new instrument can be overcome by understanding the benefits of music. I chose some examples from my individual teachings and my recent involvement at a festival to depict how interacting withContinue reading “Learning how to play an instrument has no age limit!”
Paul Harris: Simultaneous Learning
Paul Harris is considered one of the most eminent music educators in the UK. In his book Simultaneous Learning he introduces a teaching approach which benefits pupils as well as teachers. It is a philosophy that breaks music down into manageable aspects and teaches multiple aspects at once, all while maintaining a positive atmosphere. HereContinue reading “Paul Harris: Simultaneous Learning”