What to expect when learning to sing or play

Here are some basic principles:

• Children are happy when they know that they are making progress
• They enjoy music when they are able to hear the progress they are making
• They gain enormous self-esteem and confidence from building up a portfolio of small and large scale performances
• They value what they do in music when they have support from parents and family
• The guidance of an expert instrumental/ vocal teacher develops their understanding of 'how' to improve

A Practice Diary can be the main method of dialogue between teachers, parents and pupils. If there is effective communication between all three parties, the learning will be transparent and your child will make progress. In the early stages parents should help structure and monitor practice at home.

Your child's instrumental/ vocal teacher will guide you on the appropriate amount of time for their particular age and instrument. Parents and teachers should be looking for the next musical step for the student.

You should ask to be kept informed of opportunities including:

• Practice strategies / expectations
• Notice of events
• Concert opportunities
• Area groups
• Central ensembles auditions
• Books / equipment to buy
• Attendance

Who provides tuition? 

EA Music through a team of visiting tutors. 

When do the lessons take place? 

The majority of tuition will take place during school hours. Some tuition is provided in local music centres or hubs where available.  

How long are the lessons? 

Lessons range between 20- 30 minutes and are determined by the size of the group and the tutor’s allocation of time in the school. 

Will my child have to miss classes to attend music lessons? 

Yes. The school gives permission for pupils to be released from class. Tutors make every effort to rotate the timetable in post primary school where possible, so that pupils are not missing from the same class every week. 

Does my child need to have an instrument? 

If your child is selected for tuition an instrument will normally be available through EA Music Instrument Hire. 

What happens if the instrument is lost or damaged? 

This should be reported to the tutor immediately. We have our own instrument workshop that deals with repairs and replacements. Please do not attempt to repair instruments at home. 

What is expected of my child as a registered pupil of EA Music? 

• regular daily practice
• care of the instrument
• regular attendance at lessons
• commitment to both EA Music and school ensembles. 

What is expected of me as a parent/guardian? 

Give encouragement to your child and support to EA Music and school activities. Make sure that daily practice is taking place. EA Music recommends that pupils receive instruction from one tutor only on their chosen instrument. 

Withdrawal of/from Tuition 

The Music Service reserves the right to withdraw tuition for non-payment of fees. Pupils who take up tuition are committed for the academic year. Pupils who drop out during the year will only be entitled to a refund if their place can be allocated to another pupil. 

Will my child have the opportunity to take an exam? Exams are not compulsory, but they are recommended as an excellent indication of progress. Exams are available from beginner to diploma standard and will be by tutor recommendation. Pupils may also avail of theory exams if required and will receive support for GCSE, AS and A level practical. 

How will I know how my child is progressing? Reports are issued annually by the tutor. There are also annual parent/teacher consultations. 

Examination results, ensemble membership and public performances are also an indicator of progress. 

Do I have to pay for lessons if my child is selected? 

Your school pays an annual contributory charge for instrumental tuition and has the right to pass these charges on to you. Some schools may be in a position to subsidise tuition costs and so there may be differences in charging arrangements from one school to another. Please contact your child’s school for further detail. 

You will also be required to pay a fee to EA Music for the following services: - 

• instrument hire and repairs
• accessories including music books as advised by your child’s tutor
• examination fees
• for the membership of EA Music ensembles
• theory tuition if applicable
• centre-based tuition if applicable 

Is there any financial help for parents towards fees and charges? 

Children receiving free school meals are entitled to 70% remission on tuition, membership for orchestras, band and ensembles and instrument hire fee. All parents must be prepared to pay for music, instrument accessories and exam fees. Proof of entitlement will be required. 

Will my child be able to join an EA Music ensemble? Yes. This is a vital part of EA Music activity. Attendance at orchestra, band and ensemble rehearsals is highly recommended and strongly encouraged. Every pupil should be capable of being a member of an orchestra, band or ensemble and will usually be recommended to join after one year’s tuition. 

What happens if my child wants to discontinue lessons during the school year? 

EA Music reserves the right to withdraw tuition for non-payment of fees. Pupils who take up tuition are committed for the academic year. Pupils who drop out during the year will only be entitled to a refund if their place can be allocated to another pupil. Please note, EA Music reserves the right to withdraw tuition for non- adherence of EA Music policy.