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Instrumental lessons

Why have instrumental or singing lessons?

The ability to play an instrument or to sing will stay with your child for the rest of their lives. Playing and singing will not only increase their understanding and enjoyment of music it can also:

  • help social skills
  • build teamwork
  • increase self-confidence
  • give opportunities to perform
  • be a fulfilling hobby that can open up new opportunities
  • give children a head start in music lessons, from Primary school to GCSE, AS and A Level.

Research has shown that children who learn a musical instrument are more likely to be successful in other areas of their education. This can be partly explained by the way playing an instrument develops a sense of self worth and success. Children begin to believe in their ability to achieve and succeed. They gain in confidence!

What do lessons cost?

Lessons                                                        £29 per term.

Hire of instrument                                        £27 per term.

Hire of drum sticks/practice pads                 £5 per term. (Percussion pupils only)

 These prices are current from September 2010

If your child receives, or could receive, free school meals on income grounds, there is no charge for lessons or hire of instrument.

Please note that the countywide 2 year programme, starting September 2009 for free school meals for all primary aged children does not include free music tuition.  Eligibility for free music tuition is only for people entitled on income grounds,

 

How are lessons paid for?

If your child begins lessons in the first half of a term (and so can have 8 or more lessons) we will send you an invoice as soon as possible for that term’s lessons.

If your child begins lessons in the second half of a term (and so cannot receive 8 lessons) we will not charge you for that term.

You will normally receive an invoice for lessons in March, June and November. The invoice is for the following term’s lessons. The invoice is posted and, if we do not receive payment, a reminder is sent two weeks later. You can pay by cheque, postal order or credit/debit card via Durham Music Centre.

 We guarantee your child will receive at least 24 lessons in a full school year (3 terms – September to July) and we aim to provide 30 lessons.

Please note that if your child is unable to attend a lesson for any reason outside the control of Durham Music Service (e.g. school trip, illness, exams, forgotten instrument) this will count towards the guaranteed 24 lessons.