Information for Parents
How will learning to play a musical instrument help my child?
As well as the obvious musical development, there are many benefits to be gained from learning to play a musical instrument: enhanced listening and concentration, discipline, co-ordination, language development, memory and social skills. Pupils learn to become part of a team, respect others whilst increasing their confidence and participation in the wider school and community.
How can my child become part of this?
We aim to provide appropriate opportunities for our young people to learn to play a musical instrument/voice. The Music Service provides instruction in a range of disciplines, strings, brass, woodwind, guitar, percussion, keyboard/piano, bagpipes and voice. Availability of instruments varies from school to school.
Demand usually exceeds availability, so pupils are selected using a standard musical selection procedure. As opportunities and spaces arise the Instrumental Instructors will initiate the selection procedure in consultation with the primary class teacher/senior management or secondary school music department. If your child is selected an instrument will be provided and your child will enter into six week trial process after which your child in negotiation with the Instrumental Instructor will decide whether to continue/discontinue lessons.
Demand usually exceeds availability, so pupils are selected using a standard musical selection procedure. As opportunities and spaces arise the Instrumental Instructors will initiate the selection procedure in consultation with the primary class teacher/senior management or secondary school music department. If your child is selected an instrument will be provided and your child will enter into six week trial process after which your child in negotiation with the Instrumental Instructor will decide whether to continue/discontinue lessons.
What happens as my child progresses?
As the young person progresses through the instrumental teaching programme they will be expected to develop their skills as a musician by performing individually, in small ensembles and in ensembles both in and out of school. Children who choose to take music as a certificate subject in secondary school will be supported and will also be encouraged to sit external music exams. There are bands and ensembles in most schools that usually play weekly during/after school hours which all children will be expected to attend where appropriate. There is also a range of authority wide Ensembles, these bring young musicians from different schools together to perform.
What is my role as a parent?
Your role in supporting your child is an important one.
• Encourage regular practice in a quiet place and listen to them playing from time to time.
• Be positive, especially in the early stages.
• Encourage your child to attend lessons regularly and check their progress.
• Be prepared to buy music and accessories.
• Don’t hesitate to contact your child’s instrumental teacher if you need advice.
• Encourage your child to take up opportunities to perform solo and in groups.
• Encourage regular practice in a quiet place and listen to them playing from time to time.
• Be positive, especially in the early stages.
• Encourage your child to attend lessons regularly and check their progress.
• Be prepared to buy music and accessories.
• Don’t hesitate to contact your child’s instrumental teacher if you need advice.
• Encourage your child to take up opportunities to perform solo and in groups.