FAQs

What age groups are your music classes for?

My group music classes are designed for children aged 2–9 years, with classes carefully grouped by age and stage of development. This allows activities to be appropriate, engaging, and achievable for each child.

Does my child need any prior musical experience?

No prior musical experience is needed for Mini-Melody Makers or Music Adventurers, i.e., the 2-7-year-old classes.  Many children start with no background at all. The classes are designed to build musical skills gradually and naturally from the very beginning. However, some musical experience would be an advantage for the Music Stars (7-9 year olds), e.g., either having played an instrument or singing in a choir, as this class has progressed way beyond the beginner stage. 

Do children need to sing well or play an instrument to join?

Not at all for the 2-7-year-old age range.  Singing, movement, listening, and simple games are all part of the learning process. Instrumental learning can come later if a child shows interest, but it is not a requirement for these classes. For the 7-9-year-old class (Music Stars), some musical experience would be an advantage. 

What actually happens in a typical lesson?

Lessons are lively and varied, usually including:

• Singing simple, carefully chosen songs
• Movement activities to develop pulse, rhythm, pitch awareness.  and coordination
• Listening activities and responding to music
• Games that develop pitch awareness, memory, and musical understanding
• Little stories or scenarios are often used. 
• Opportunities for children to observe, join in gradually, and build confidence
• Activities leading to reading music. 
• Judicious use of appropriate instruments when it supports children’s learning. 

Activities are short and varied to suit young children’s concentration spans.

What teaching approaches do you use?

The classes are inspired by Kodály and Dalcroze principles. In simple terms, this means children learn music through singing, movement, listening, and experience first, before any formal theory or written work. Sound comes before symbol, and musical elements are experienced before being taught formally. 

Parents do not need prior knowledge of these approaches to understand or benefit from the classes.

Why don’t children learn instruments straight away?

These classes focus on developing core musicianship skills such as pulse, rhythm, pitch, and listening. This foundation makes later instrumental learning much easier, more enjoyable, and more successful.

Many specialist music schools use a similar structure: musicianship first, then instrumental study alongside it, e.g., the junior Guildhall School of Music and Drama, London; Chetham’s School of Music, Manchester; National Youth Choir of Scotland.

My child is shy or doesn’t always join in — is that okay?

Yes, absolutely. Some children prefer to watch and absorb before joining in. This is a normal and healthy way of learning. There is no pressure to perform, and children are encouraged gently and positively at their own pace.

Do parents stay in the room?

For the youngest children, parents stay in the room and are encouraged to join in the activities. As children get older and more confident, parents take more of a back seat but are still encouraged to attend the lessons and join in when asked.

How big are the classes?

Class sizes are kept small enough to ensure each child is known, supported, and encouraged, while still enjoying the social experience of making music together. 

Can my child try a class before committing?

Yes. Trial sessions are available, subject to space, so you and your child can see whether the class feels right before committing to a full term.

What should my child wear?

Comfortable clothing is best, as the classes involve movement. Dance shoes (or bare feet, if appropriate) are ideal.

What happens if my child misses a lesson?

If your child misses a session, they can simply rejoin the following week. Skills are reinforced regularly, and children quickly settle back in.

How do I enrol?

You can enrol by getting in touch via the website contact form or email. I will then send you registration details, dates, and payment information.

How can I find out more or ask a question?

If you have any questions that are not answered here, please feel free to get in touch. I am always happy to discuss whether a class would be suitable for your child.

Vincent Iyengar MA BA (Hons) LTCL PGCE MISM