We are very lucky to have a wide range of musicians working with us as peripatetic teachers during the school week, providing instrumental and singing lessons.
As instrumental lessons take place throughout the school day, pupil's lessons are rotated wherever possible so the same class will not be missed more than once per half term. Subject teachers are always asked to provide our girls with any work missed so they are able to catch up.
Please remember that individual lessons require a commitment beyond the lesson itself. Teachers will have their own guidelines with regards to practising and instrument use. However, as a general rule, please try to ensure that your daughter does some playing/singing every day. This will help her to make steady progress.
Important things to consider
Carefully choose the size of your daughter’s instrument to make playing easier for her. There are nine different sizes of violins available, while guitars range from quarter size to full size. Depending on the size of your daughter’s hands, it’s best to begin with a smaller version of your chosen instrument.
For example, if she is going to play guitar, choose one that will have a smaller neck, with the frets closer together (e.g., a ukulele). As your daughter grows, so can her instrument. Once you have a teacher, they can usually advise you on the right size to buy. Remember, there will be very limited progress at any age if there isn’t regular practice and enthusiasm.
Age 5 to 7 years old
As a general guideline, the piano, recorder or violin are good instruments for girls to begin learning from 5 to 7 years of age – any younger than this and a child’s fingers and hands are too small and they will struggle.
In particular, starting with the piano will give your child a good foundation for future learning of any instrument. At this age, you (or someone in your household) will also have to be committed and practice with your child every time they do to help them build up good habits and enable them to progress.
Age 8 years and older
At around the age of 8, you could introduce other instruments, such as the guitar, flute, clarinet or viola. This is also a good age to start vocal lessons. At this point in your daughter’s life, you can slowly introduce independent practice to your daughter, although this depends on her personal development and levels of independence.
Parents’ involvement, interest and support is always a good boost for a child's confidence. Please come to watch your daughter’s performances and encourage her to perform in front of friends and family. Also, support her in getting involved in musical groups, such as orchestra or choir, or suggest that she performs with her friends.
Ready to see your daughter discover her potential?
Music is one subject that has a positive impact on every area of your daughter’s life, from her academic performance to her confidence and creativity. Learn how the rich music curriculum at St Margaret’s Hampstead will upgrade her learning experience.