Is the music commission report based on real life or on fantasy? A personal opinion of the way in which music education could be re-developed to embrace the needs of all children. more
The supporting tests in music exams (aural, scales, study, musical knowledge, improvisation) are given different weighting depending on which board you choose and the percentage you need to get a distinction varies too. Find out which board would suit you best and discover how to get distinction marks in these tests in your exam, whether it's with ABRSM, Trinity or LCM. more
The private music teacher/child/parent relationship is a complicated one, resting on mutual co-operation and collaboration. A good relationship depends on mutual respect - for the well-being of the child, for the teacher's professionalism, and for the whole array of demands on parents' time and resources, The better the relationship, the better the outcome of tuition. more
Playing when someone is listening can be difficult for some children because of the added stress and the older the child is, the worse the anxiety seems to get unless they are practising performing regularly. Here are some suggestions to prevent performance nerves from becoming a problem. more
Children need strong listening skills for success at school and for their social and emotional development. Find out how listening skills can easily be developed at home. more
Learning in music can be affected in many ways by dyslexia. Here are ten ways to maximise your dyslexic child's chances of musical enjoyment and success. more
Is it too late for me, as an adult, to master the piano? How will I learn? What is the best way to begin? How long will it take? Is it worth the effort? These must be among the most frequently asked questions about learning to play the piano, or indeed any musical instrument. Here are some answers to consider. more
The process of learning to read and play or sing music is complex and interesting. The better informed parents are, the better equipped they can be to help their child. Some of the ways in which we learn are explored here. more
A detailed explanation, with supporting evidence, of how noise affects your hearing, including how to protect yourself and your children from hearing damage and loss. Particularly relevant to musicians. more
You want your child to gain the most from music lessons so it is important to make practice time comfortable, enjoyable and, possibly, sociable. Organise your family schedule to make practice time fit in with other commitments so that your child knows you think music is important. more
You can help your child to succeed in a music exam by helping to make sure she keeps to a workable practice plan. Here are some suggestions. more
Dyslexia can affect learning in music. A music teacher giving a child one-to-one lessons is ideally placed to notice dyslexia traits and may be able help your child to develop useful strategies for reading music. more