When can lessons start?
Flute lessons can begin from 3 -4 years of age depending on the child’s maturity. In my flute teaching studio there are pupils from age 3 to adult. All pupils follow the Suzuki repertoire and some take ABRSM and Trinity grade exams. There is a pre-instrument class for children under the age of 3/4.
Individual Lessons
All students have either a 30 minute or 1 hour individual lesson each week. Before lessons start each student will need a copy of the Suzuki repertoire book and CD, a notebook and I recommend that parents read Shinichi Suzuki’s book ‘Nurtured by Love’.
The Suzuki books are all available from the British Suzuki Institute and I am able to give advice on where to purchase a flute and importantly the size of flute required if purchasing for a child.
Group Lessons
In addition to the weekly individual lesson there are weekly group lessons. The common repertoire studied by all pupils enables students to play together as an ensemble. The skills learnt in individual lessons are reinforced in both the Suzuki repertoire and non-Suzuki ensemble pieces. In addition the group lesson enables the study of general musical theory through the playing of games. Group lessons are a hugely motivating and social part of the Suzuki approach. The older children play in an ensemble class with other instrumentalists playing non-suzuki repertoire.
Musicality Class
Each child also attends a weekly musicality class, run on the same day as the group class. This is a non instrument class that teaches the theory of music through games and movement. The Music Mind Games materials are used which gives the children a fun but structured approach to music theory. When ready the children will be entered for Grade 5 theory examinations if required.
Concerts
There are three concerts each year and additional opportunities to play in large concert venues with the British Suzuki Institute. Pupils can also attend workshops and summer schools both in the UK and Europe. We also perform successfully in local music festivals.
