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Information for pupils

What you should do if you want to learn an instrument in school, what instruments you can learn to play, the cost of lessons, do you need your own instrument, when are the lessons and how to make music with other musicians. 

I would like to learn an instrument in school, what should I do?

First of all speak to the teacher in charge of music in your school and they will be able to arrange for you to meet the instrumental teacher.

The instrumental teacher will check that the instrument you have picked is right for you and will help to get your lessons started as soon as possible.

What instruments can I learn to play?

Lessons are available on a wide range of instruments including:

  • violin
  • viola
  • cello
  • double bass
  • guitar
  • oboe
  • flute
  • clarinet
  • bassoon
  • saxophone
  • trumpet
  • cornet
  • French horn
  • tenor horn
  • trombone
  • euphonium
  • baritone
  • tuba
  • keyboard
  • voice
  • kit percussion
  • tuned percussion
  • and various world music percussion instruments

How much do the lessons cost?

The costs vary. You will need to check with your school what the current charge for instrumental lessons is.

Do I need to buy an instrument or can I borrow one?

Instruments are available on loan from the music service but there is a limited supply. It may be necessary for you to hire one initially. There is a charge of £20 per term to borrow an instrument from us. You do not have to pay this charge for the first term of learning.

Your parents are able to purchase instruments for you through our instrumental purchase scheme. Please speak to your instrumental teacher for more information and to obtain an instrumental purchase form.

If you borrow a loan instrument it becomes your responsibility. You will be expected to pay for any damage caused (fair wear and tear excepted), so we advise you take out insurance.

When will I have my lessons?

Lessons usually take place during the school day. You will come out of your normal lesson in order to attend. You will normally attend at a different time each week so that you don’t miss too much of any school lessons.

You will need to make sure that you catch up with any work that you miss.

How do I get to make music with other musicians?

As you progress you will be expected to take part in school ensembles which may involve attending rehearsals and performances both in lunch hours and beyond the normal school day.

As you develop further you will have the opportunity to join a wide range of bands and orchestras run by the schools’ music service. Please ask your teacher for information.