Category: Susanna’s blog

Susanna Cassam blog.  NEW

Why is it so important to play music to your children at home?

It’s obvious really.  But sometimes we need reminding HOW important because in all the chaos of family life, we simply forget to press play… or at least forget to really appreciate the music.

These are the most important and benefits that should leave you running for a playlist:

CONNECTION – music at home envelopes you and you children in a bubble of joy

QUIETENING OF THE MIND – it stills them, and feeds their ability to be calm

DISTRACTION FROM STRUGGLES – an immediate solution, so add it to your parenting tools!

A CHANGE OF FOCUS – similar to the above, but great when they are holding on to a negative vibe at home

CREATING GOOD HABITS – they will carry it with them… ‘I remember we always had music on in the kitchen’ is a common one

FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION – it can give children permission to unleash their true feelings, to be uplifted, or relax; to be their true selves

EDUCATION – listening to music ignites ALL AREAS of a child’s development (we’ll be looking at this more in the next post, but how amazing is that!)

 

‘Listening to music helps children UNDERSTAND music, gain opinions about music, crave more and more music!  They’ll discover what they love, what makes their heart sing, what keeps them calm, what inspires them, what intrigues them… and what they aspire to!  If children listen to enough different types of music on a regular basis, they will choose to learn an instrument and be motivated to constantly improve.  They will work hard to imitate those musicians they admire and they’ll also love the connection it brings to everyone at home.  Music brings a family together and wraps you all up in its comfort and energy.’

Susanna Cassam – from Susanna Cassam blog (NEW POST)  https://www.instagram.com/scmt.music.tuition/

We’re been spending some time thinking about how we can help you directly with championing your child as they learn and love their music.  We’ll be sharing our thoughts in a new blog offering advice to parents of young musicians … http://www.cassam.co.uk

Children are so, so different.  I didn’t realise quite how different until I had my own.  These differences affect the ways they learn best in every aspect of their lives, so helping them along the way as a parent is a challenge individual to you!  However, when it come to learning a musical instrument, there are many things you can do to ensure that they get the best out of their lessons, progress fast, want to practise at home, don’t lose interest… and enjoy themselves regardless of their strengths and challenges.  Music has an enormously positive impact on EVERY child and we can’t wait to help you access their enthusiasm when the tutor has left the room.  We’ll be looking at:

How much practise for my child, and when

How can I help to make practise fun?!

Encouraging a child to perform for others

The importance of listening to music at home

Music groups and orchestras for young children

Targeted help for children struggling

Music lessons for children with additional educational needs

Music exams… or not?  And if not, providing other incentives

Choosing exactly the right teacher for your child

 

We’ll be posting weekly, firstly focusing on The Importance of listening to music at home.

Please do keep checking in to read the latest from our new blog offering advice to parents of young musicians.

Susanna, head of school  http://www.instagram.com/scmt.music.tuition/

To buy or to hire a musical instrument… that is the question ?
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Frequently parents tell us that they would rather not invest in an instrument for their child before knowing if they’ll commit to their music lessons ?❤️?
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Will they enjoy it? Are they too young? How do you know you’re making the right decision at the right time?!  http://www.cassam.co.uk
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GOOD NEWS! Nowadays you can hire a beginner’s instrument in the short-term with an option to purchase afterwards (minus the money you’ve invested in rental). No pressure, no mammoth spend, no big decisions too early on ?
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Our friends at Ackerman Music on Queens Road, Brighton and Portland Road, Hove are experts with all things hire/purchase. They have a huge range of instruments to fit all ages, sizes, budgets, timescales etc. If you visit them in-store they’ll help you choose and can also advise regarding cleaning, storing, insurance, makes & models (and noise reduction if that’s a concern ????)
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To buy or to hire a musical instrument…

http://www.ackermanmusicsussex

Where to get piano lessons.  Making the right choice for your child…

There are many considerations to take into account when wondering where to get piano lessons for your child.  Endless options too it would seem.  I personally have two sons aged five and seven and when it comes to reaching out and booking them into the care of a stranger, I feel like my list of queries and concerns is mind-boggling, especially at the moment.  But it needn’t be, you just need to know exactly what to ask.  Here are some pointers for you, I hope they help.  Remember, if you are enquiring directly to an established, experienced music teacher or school, they will know all the answers and re-assure you straight away.  They’ll be confident in their responses and understand your concerns as a parent:

 

The music teacher/school.  Their basic information and background:

Is there a landline number as well as a mobile?

Is there a local business address?

Is there someone named, that is running the organisation, that you can speak to directly over the phone if needed?

Do they have a long and reassuring history of testimonials online?

Are they highly recommended?

Are their claims backed up… exam passes, number of pupils etc?

 

Other than your obvious queries (…’do you have someone suitable, locally, with these days free’) ask the following of a school:

How much are the lessons, does it vary between tutors, instruments and areas?

Can I meet the tutor in person for a free trial before committing to anything?

Do your tutors have a music degree?

Are they ALL have grade 8 on their instruments?

Are they mentored in exam preparation for ABRSM and Trinity exam boards?

Do they offer additional services (concerts, written reports etc)?

Are your tutors’ lessons and teaching styles overseen and monitored?

Do you thoroughly vet the tutors and gain references?

 

And for individuals you come across:

How much are the lessons?

Can I meet you in person before committing?

Do you have a music degree?

Are you grade 8 on your instrument?

Do you have music theory qualifications?

How long have you been teaching for?

What is your experience of teaching children?

Are you trained in exam preparation for ABRSM and Trinity syllabuses?

Do you offer additional services (concerts, written reports etc)?

Do you have an enhanced, child workforce DBS and public liability insurance?

 

So, where to get piano lessons!  You may only have concerns regarding some of the above, but rest assured, any experienced, genuine teacher will be not only used to it, but flattered that you’ve asked, that you’re not a time-waster… and they’ll be eager to answer your questions in full.  You could call us to test us out!

http://www.cassam.co.uk/testimonials

The benefits of learning a musical instrument…

We’ve collated at little list this morning of some of the proven benefits of a child learning a musical instrument. The facts are mind-blowing! Have a look and then ask yourself why you’ve not booked their lessons yet…  can you think of any more?

 

Co-ordination

Listening skills

Confidence

Self esteem

Speech and language

Problem solving

Teamwork

Artistic skills

Maths skills

Time management

Attention span

Longterm memory

Self motivation

Self discipline

Anxiety management

Self analysis

PHEW!

Music performance – coping with your nerves…

Pre-performance nerves are extremely common, even among professional performers. Most of us will have experienced a dry mouth, sweaty hands, the shakes or even butterflies in the stomach – none of which are obviously helpful as a musician. If controlled effectively, however, these feelings and sense of alertness can actually help to give a performance the edge!

Whether it be an exam or a concert performance, performing in front of other people before the big day (even if it’s just your close family/friends) is one of the best ways of ensuring you are ready and relaxed about how the day will go.

Here are some other of ABRSM’s top tips for students and candidates to help you cope with performance anxiety and turn feelings of nervousness to your advantage.  Click on the link for more detail.  They have numerous pages of tips and advice for all ages and abilities of musician looking forward to an exam or concert performance:

Keep fit.

Failing to prepare is preparing to fail

Visualise success

Practise performing in front of friends and family

Controlled breathing

Smile

Concentrate on the music

Don’t worry about mistakes

http://gb.abrsm.org/en/exam-support/coping-with-nerves/

 

ABRSM exams run three times a year.  They are the benchmark of progression for most of our musicians that are keen to work within a graded system.

PIANO LESSONS FOR CHILDREN.  Music, in all its glorious diversity, enhances our lives, helps us express ourselves and opens our minds to numerous dreams and possibilities. No-one should be without it… and the lucky ones get to create and perform it themselves.

Everyone has music inside them, alongside the desire to listen and be inspired. If you ‘discover’ music when you are very young, you’ll learn faster. You’ll certainly grow up to be more creative… and it’s very likely you’ll follow a musical path through your youth and beyond. I was brought up in a very musical environment, and was frequently surprised at school by how much I naturally understood about music without ever actually being told. So listening to music is important, now how about playing the music yourself…

The instrument you choose to play as a young beginner is crucial to enjoyment and being a Pianist myself I am arguably biased, but I’ve seen the piano being used as a platform for all kinds of musical adventures, in private and public environments alike.

With a combination of fun lessons, a talented and inspiring tutor, plenty of variety and some practise on the side, a child can learn to play the piano from as young as 4 years old and progress effectively. There are numerous benefits: You can play straight away, you can learn virtually any style or genre, you need no accompaniment and yet at the same time the instrument is big enough for a parent or teacher to play alongside. Additionally, many children begin music lessons at the piano and then add other instruments to their skills base, having gained a thorough understanding of different musical styles, how music works… and how to make the most of it. Add to that a boosted self esteem, new-found confidence and ‘musician status’ in the playground.

Why not find out for yourself if it’s true. Unleash that musician waiting to jump out of your child, and see how quickly they progress. In fact, pull up a chair, join in, and see how addictive it can be. You might even find you want lessons yourself!

Piano lessons for children.  Find out more…

https://www.facebook.com/susannacassammusictuition/

NEW TESTIMONIALS

We asked our clients for feedback about their music teachers last week… and here’s what they said.  Thank you to all of our tutors for their total dedication to the cause, especially Clare, James, Rich, Priya, Jinny, Rosanna, Zara, Annalies, Jonathan, Vicky, Philip and Adrian… who have all been specifically targeted for high praise!!!

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Alison (parent)

We have two tutors from SCMT – Clare for piano and James for Guitar.  Both are excellent, highly expert and very passionate about the instruments they teach. They have engaged and inspired our children to want to do more with music.  Clare has particularly progressed both children on the piano in so far as grades are concerned and momentum is building on the guitar.  We are very happy indeed.

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Dan

I feel very lucky to have Richard as my tutor. His enthusiasm, patience and knowledge have really improved my understanding in Music. I always feel inspired and motivated after every lesson and hope to continue them long into the future. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him.

Dedication to a pupil’s progress on their instrument – Brilliant

Inspired and engaging teaching methods – Very much so

Good time keeping – Yes

Good rapport with pupils – Yes

Regularity of lessons – Able to fit around me

Friendly, polite, professional attitude – Absolutely

‘Variety’ during a lesson (for example sight-reading, theory, scales, pieces, composition) – Great

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Jenny (parent)

Feedback for Jinny (violin) and Priya (flute and piano).  They’re both excellent, knowledgeable and professional and we’ve never had a single issue with either of them.

Jinny is an excellent instructor who is not only extremely talented but also warm and engaging, and I’m very pleased with the progress I’ve made on the violin in such a short time.  I would recommend her to anyone.  10/10 in all areas.

Priya is a dedicated teacher who has helped my daughter progress in leaps and bounds on both the flute and piano. She clearly works well with children, keeping them engaged and helping them learn with fun, age-appropriate lessons. I have complete confidence that she’ll bring out my daughter’s full potential.  10/10 in all areas. 

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Marion (parent)

We are really delighted with Rosanna.  She is lovely, patient and conscientious, and Becca enjoys her lessons.  She brings new pieces to play and adapts her methods to Becca’s needs. She teaches her useful mnemonics to help her learn the tricky bits!  She is punctual and reliable and recently supported Becca through her grade 2 exam.  Rosanna is also flexible with times, which is really helpful for us.

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Louise  (parent)

Olivia (13) really loves her singing lessons with Zara.  She has learnt a huge amount and is gaining confidence all the time.  Zara and Olivia decide on the songs to work on together and the lessons are always engaging and varied. She learns different songs and has done some song-writing and quite a bit of recording. Zara has a really lovely manner and a great rapport with Olivia. The lessons are every Wednesday.  From my point of view, Zara is an excellent teacher.  She and Olivia are recording songs and she often sends me the recordings, which is lovely.  She is very professional in the billing etc.

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Dinah (parent)

Annalise is a fantastic, enthusiastic teacher and we are very fond of her – she hits all those points you raised with ease.

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Gemma (parent)

Jonathan is a great teacher.  Ned has made really good progress since he started lessons with Jonathan and has been much more motivated to practice (which he normally does for 15 mins a day without needing to be nagged).  This is a real turning point as the whole ‘practice’ issue used to be a bit stressful. He also helped and advised us when we needed to upgrade Ned’s instrument.  Jonathan is extremely punctual, reliable but also flexible and very considerate. Ned is really happy with his lessons, he has great respect for Jonathan who encourages but also challenges him.

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Marion (parent)

Bobby has Vicky as his saxophone tutor, and enjoys his lessons. She has been really fantastic and has encouraged him every step of the way. She has been really flexible when he has had other after school commitments and been so patient with him (teenage boy….need I say more?).  Vicky has encouraged him with solo and group playing and made the music interesting and enjoyable, and has been an important person in his development. She has even come to watch when he has played saxophone in some school productions.  She has always been totally professional and reliable and she keeps us informed of his progress.

She is currently encouraging him towards his grade 8 exam, and I think she has been an inspiration to him.

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Corinna (parent)

My son is still having lessons with Phillip. He is happy with the teaching and Phillip is good at encouraging him and has even got to him to write some of his own music. He has always been punctual and is friendly and polite.

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Linda

Thank you for sending through the video from the Christmas concert. My singing teacher is Adrian.

Dedication to a pupil’s progress on their instrument – Adrian is a very dedicated tutor who pushes me in a positive way to improve.

Inspired and engaging teaching methods – Adrian will always teach me good warm up exercises and good methods on how to reach higher notes, or on how to sing certain words in order for it to sound better.

Good time keeping – excellent time keeping.

Good rapport with pupils – very good.

Regularity of lessons – yes, very good.

Friendly, polite, professional attitude – Adrian is very polite and friendly.

‘Variety’ during a lesson (for example sight-reading, theory, scales, pieces, composition) – Adrian makes every lesson fun and he will vary the type of songs I sing.

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Vanessa (parent)

Olivia has piano lessons with Jonathan.  We are absolutely delighted with him.  He is helpful if we need to alter lessons, is either on time or early… and great with her.  Olivia has gone from basic pieces, self taught, when he started with her to now playing chords and much more complex pieces, in which I feel is a very short space of time.  She always enjoys her lessons and he is able to teach her using music that is in the charts now as well as classic pieces, so he is able to work with her on her level.

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Elena (parent)

Adam continues to progress well with electric guitar lessons. James has all the traits you mentioned in your mail and we have never had a problem with him. Highly recommended.

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Karveen (parent)

Dedication to a pupil’s progress on their instrument:  We are very happy with Priya’s dedication, support and teaching of India and really do feel she cares about her and her progress.

Inspired and engaging teaching methods:  Priya uses technology and apps to help India learn and entice her to sustain interest and we find this very innovative. She also writes clear and precise notes for homework on a wipe board and in her book.

Good time keeping:

Priya is always punctual

Good rapport with pupils:

India loves being taught by Priya and looks to her like an older (very strict) sister.  She seeks to impress her and is disappointed with herself when Priya is disappointed with her progress.

Regularity of lessons:  Weekly

Friendly, polite, professional attitude:  Very

‘Variety’ during a lesson (for example sight-reading, theory, scales, pieces, composition):

Priya ensures India makes progress on all the dimensions for her grading

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