FAQ

INSTRUMENTAL LESSONS

• Are violins hard to play?

Although stringed instruments have some hurdles and challenges to overcome, many students find the rewards of playing these beautiful, sophisticated “wooden voice boxes” outweigh the challenges. If five year old kids can learn and play, you certainly can too!

• What makes the violin/viola/cello difficult?

The accuracy of finger placement required in the left hand (tape markers can help some people with this), and of course the sensitivity of the bow stroke along the strings, requires both control and care. This just barely skims the surface of tricky concepts explored in the art of violin playing. You’ll have to come along and conquer things for yourself!

• Why should I play the violin/viola/cello?

There are lots of reasons people choose to pick up these instruments. Some people enjoy the unparalleled sensitivity and warm resonance of these instruments. Others could be born into a musical family and take their musical study very seriously; they might have aspirations of joining an orchestra, attending a conservatorium or becoming a soloist. Some people play other instruments, and want to broaden their musical scope. Some people are fascinated with the history of the violin family. Some people have seen the violin, cello or viola performed on television, in concert halls or theatres and have been spellbound by their beauty, and some people may just feel like trying the instrument out as something new!

• I don’t have a good ear for music. Should I still play?

Yes! A variety of people from different backgrounds, ages and musical abilities take up the violin and grow to adore it, and many achieve remarkable success having never been exposed to music before.  You’ll also receive ear training as part of your musical journey, which greatly helps your ability in intonation.

• Do I have to know how to read music to be able to play?

You actually don’t need to read music at all to be able to play. You can simply improvise and learn to play from ear, but music/notation-reading is a great skill to develop, that can aide you in your study of any instrument, and really anything music-related!

• What kind of music will there be to learn?

Anything and everything, depending on the musical direction you’d like to take. No limits – you can explore what you like!

• What are AMEB exams?

Recognised as a national benchmark syllabus across Australia, the AMEB (Australian Music Examinations Board) is the most widely-used assessment system for Music, Speech and Drama in Australia. Students enrol in AMEB exams for the benefit of performance experience and a structured syllabus with clearly defined goals and measure of playing ability. Leading specialists in the field provide personal written feedback in exams that cover Preliminary through to professional Diploma levels. Students work hard all year towards their AMEB exams and certificates recognise milestones covered and musical achievement. Students of all ages, including adults, can enter AMEB exams. For more information, visit the AMEB website: http://www.ameb.edu.au/

• I’m shy about playing in front of people. Will I have to perform?

No, you don’t have to perform at all. If playing in front of people is not your cup of tea, you definitely won’t be pressured to do so. However, if you are shy at the moment but would like to develop some more confidence and poise in your playing, coaching, practice performances and public performance opportunities will be offered.

• How much should I practice?

This is dependent on the difficulty of the music you wish to accomplish, and standard of performance you want to attain. Generally, 4 – 5 hours a week is a good practice habit for notable improvements in most people. Though towards eighth grade and diploma levels, you can expect to be practicing up to 5 hours a day!! Some people instead choose to practice very little, and that’s fine. It’s up to you, and how quickly/much you want to move forward. You also should take into account the other commitments and responsibilities of your life, and not “over-practice” – which can do more harm than good. It’s is also recommended to try and supplement your musical pursuits with physical activity, good rest and a healthy diet, as especially in the higher levels, instrumental study can be quite mentally rigorous. Practice, although repetitive, should be enjoyable and satisfying steps in progress. Remember though, balance in life is key! 🙂

LESSONS IN MUSIC THEORY, MUSICIANSHIP AND MUSIC CRAFT

• Can I undertake AMEB exams for music theory/musicianship/music craft?

Absolutely, AMEB offers a syllabus of study for all three. Up to grade six in Theory of Music, grade four in Musicianship and grade four in Music Craft can be undertaken through the AMEB assessment system. AMEB also now offers online theory courses, which are a useful way to prepare for exams independently and electronically.