What are the benefits of learning the violin?
A quick google will tell you that there many reputable academic studies out there about the benefits of learning an instrument. From academic achievement to social confidence, improvements in memory to increased discipline and physical coordination to creativity, there is barely an area of life that connecting with music doesn't help. Lessons can bring focus and stillness to a boisterous child and confidence and courage to a shy child. For me the most important aspect is the life-long fun and pleasure that my violin playing has given me. I still remember my first concerts playing nursery rhymes aged 6 with pride and all the way through to playing in (far too many!) orchestras at university I am just so grateful for the opportunity I was given.
Do you offer violin lessons for adults as well as children?
Yes! Although the Suzuki method is often associated with teaching very young children, the methods are applicable to students of any age.
Is my child the right age to start violin lessons?
Using the Suzuki method, the violin can be learnt from pretty much any age. The youngest age group for which I offer lessons is 3, but the methods I use are equally suitable for teaching older pupils, even up to teenagers and adults. If your child is younger than 3, but you would like them to gain the benefits of listening to classical music at an early age I offer a one-off listening lesson.
How is it possible to start learning the violin so young?
Suzuki method is also known as the "Mother Tongue" method. Musical skills are learnt in the same way as language is learnt when a child starts to speak. Starting violin lessons at a young age can help build up stamina, concentration and focus and allow a child to achieve a really strong base set of skills before school starts to make more demands on their time. It is also great fun!
Will violin lessons suit my child?
I believe that violin lessons can benefit every child and I'm committed to ensuring that your child gets the most out of their lessons and practice. If you are interested in lessons but not certain if they will work for you please do take advantage of my free trial lesson. This includes a half hour violin lesson and then some extra time so that we can talk through any concerns or questions that you have.
Does my child need to have musical talent to play the violin?
It is my firm belief that what people think of as musical talent is actually 99% hard work, passion, good teaching and parental commitment. Every child has the potential to learn to play the violin to a high standard and also to benefit from the increased academic achievement, life-long friendships and enjoyment that come with this skill. No child picks up a violin and plays like a professional first time but every child could one day given the chance.
Aren't the associated costs of learning an instrument very expensive?
I use the Suzuki books and CDs as my primary teaching material. These are available at a very reasonable price on websites like amazon. You will not need to buy a violin straight away. To start with lessons and practice are carried out without one. When a violin is required I will be able to rent one to you if you prefer not to buy. When your child is small they may have to change violin several times anyway as they grow, so renting one is actually preferable.
How much input will my child need from me during lessons and practice?
If your child is under 8, you will need to attend their lessons. Below this age the student will be unable to remember everything from the lesson correctly in order to practice. If you are able to attend lessons and supervise practice, then this will help your child get the most out of their work. It can also be a very rewarding experience. Obviously it's not always possible to do this all of the time but whatever you can manage together each week will be incredibly valuable.
How much practice should my child do a week?
A good rule of thumb is that you should do approximately the same amount of practice every day as your weekly lessons: so for older beginners they should aim to do approximately half an hour every day. For younger beginners a shorter practice session, around fifteen minutes, is usually more suitable. Some days this will not be possible, but in this case even managing to do five minutes, or ensure that you do some of your listening work in the car, will be valuable. For some children, especially younger ones, it can be useful to break up the practice time in to 2 or 3 seperate chunks to ensure practice does not become a chore or too tiring. Of course if your child is really enjoying practicing that is great - you don't need to stop after a particular time!
Do you do home visits?
Usually lessons are held at my house in St Albans. However, please call me to discuss if this will not work for you as it is possible that I will be able to travel to your location for a small additional fee.
Do you offer group lessons?
During the school holidays I hold workshops which all of my students are invited to attend. These are very useful for learning ensemble playing, solo performance skills and wider musicianship. Hopefully you will also find them to be a fun social occasion!