Like many, I had instrumental lessons as a child. First of all, I had piano lessons which I started age six, then flute lessons, then later on, singing lessons. As…
Whether for an examination, particularly at diploma level, or to share music with an audience, creating an interesting and attractive musical programme for a concert is an art form. Here,…
This is a question which I’m often asked, and it’s a justifiable consideration. It’s a question which arises, much in the same way as the one much-debated by teachers as…
At one time or another, most instrumental teachers, wherever they work, will inherit a student who previously had lessons with another music teacher. Turning it round the other way, many…
As I've written previously, whilst it's worth the fewest number of marks, the quick study is often the element of the DipABRSM which causes candidates most anxiety. I've written previously…
When we're busy teaching (or indeed, performing) it can be hard sometimes to nurture and enjoy our own music-making as individuals. I know from experience that the demands of teaching…
I've been mentoring teachers for the DipABRSM, and other teaching diplomas such as the DipLCM(TD) and ATCL, for nearly 10 years. I'm always impressed by these teachers' commitment and willingness…
Over the past 18 years, I've acquired many books related to music education and instrumental teaching. If you're looking to expand your library, explore some new ideas or collect together…
If you're a singer, you might be used to singing in choirs. Maybe you've been in shows, perhaps in the chorus where there's been plenty of ensemble singing. If you're…
Writing notes for a concert programme may seem daunting. It is a professional skill, but also required for some music performance examinations and for local amateur concerts. In this guest post, Ruth…
When I had lessons as a child, no teacher I encountered seemed to have any formal policy when it came to the lessons they offered. It was predominantly pay by…
Note: the advice here is aimed at singers entering for the DipABRSM in either performance or teaching; however, the advice applies more generally, particularly to the LRSM and FRSM. As…