Quick Guide

Getting Started with Music Lessons

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Table of Contents

3
Vital questions
4 Vital questions
5
What age to
6
What age to
7
Lesson locations:
to ask to ask start? start? Where’s best?

8 How to find a
9 What to expect
10
What to expect
11
Preparing your
12
Our final
great teacher in your 1st lesson in your 1st lesson child for lessons thoughts

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5 vital questions to ask
before starting lessons
Thinking about signing up for private music lessons? Great! Whether
you’re letting your son or daughter test the waters or you’re interested in
a new hobby, taking lessons can be a rewarding experience for pupils of
any age. But before you get carried away dreaming about your future
Grammy awards, you’ll need to figure out the logistics: the who, when,
where and why of your lessons.
Here are 5 questions to consider as you start the process:
1. What are your goals?
Do you want to grace the stage at the Royal Albert Hall someday, or are
you just taking music lessons to have fun and learn something new?
Whatever your goals may be, recognizing them is the first step to success.
So, go ahead... don’t be shy!
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2. What is your schedule like?
Learning a new skill takes time. Take an honest look at your schedule and
make sure you set aside time for both consistent lessons and practice. This
also includes the time of day that you select for your lessons.
3. What is your learning style, and which teacher will suit you best?
If the lessons are for your child, take the advice from a professional.
Teaching children takes patience and expertise. Sometimes, a teacher who
knows the current Top 40 hits is all it takes to level with a finicky pupil.
For adults, on the other hand, you probably already have an idea of your
learning style. Do you need an teacher who will provide critical feedback
and be a bit strict? Do you want to learn a specific genre? These are all
great things to consider as you start out.
5 vital questions to ask
before starting lessons
4. How will you motivate yourself?
This is a big one. As much as you might impress your teacher during your
lessons, the magic actually happens outside of that 60-minute time
slot. Your teacher won’t be there to tell you to practice your scales when
you’re relaxing on the couch, so that discipline will fall back on you.
For some people, this motivation might come from actually scheduling
in practice time on the calendar. For others, finding musicians to jam
with for fun might keep you going. Whatever strategy works for you,
stick with it!
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5. How will you stay organized?
Similar to setting goals and staying motivated, a large part of your
success will come from your organisation. Without it, you’ll end up with
sheet music everywhere and your lessons may seem much more stressful
than they need to be! This can be especially difficult for kids, but it can
also be a great learning opportunity.
One helpful strategy is to dedicate one room or area of the house as the
music corner. Then, keep instruments, music stands, music and folders in
that area.
What age to start
Music is a powerful thing. Turn on a tune and most children will have a
natural inclination to dance or sing along, even from an early age. And
with all of the benefits of learning music, you may be asking, “What’s the
right age to start music lessons?”
As always, there is in ‘one size fits all’. Things like reading level, attention
span and emotional maturity are all factors. However, here are some
good guidelines to keep in mind:
Children between two and four years:
Kids from two are certainly able to start learning things like rhythm and
recognising sounds, but in most cases are not ready to work with a
specific instrument. This is the perfect time for at-home activities, such as
singing songs, listening to music, and watching performances.
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Children aged five to ten:
Most children will be ready to begin music lessons at the age of five. At
this age, the fine motor skills involved in playing an instrument are usually
developed, and pupils can begin learning how to read and recognise notes
on the staff. Piano is the most common instrument to begin with, and can
pave the way for other instruments as your child progresses.
Children aged ten plus:
At the age of ten and above, most children are ready to handle just about
any instrument. This is also the time they may start band or orchestra,
which opens them to a wide variety of instruments. (Keep in mind that
child sizes are available for instruments, such as guitar and violin, and
should be sized appropriately). Regardless of age, however, consider these
questions first:
What age to start
1. Has your child expressed an interest in music already?
2. Does your child know the difference between right and left hands?
3. Can your child recognize the numbers 1-5, and the letters in the
alphabet (at least A-G)?
Adult learners:
Of course, it’s never too late to start music lessons! Research has
shown many benefits for adults taking lessons, including lower stress
levels, and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

4. Have you set up a designated practice area in your home?

5. Do you have access to an instrument for at-home practice? Once you’ve taken that first step to sign up for lessons, you’ll likely

6. Can your child sit still for at least 10-15 minutes? notice the benefits immediately - especially if your goal is just to have
fun and learn a new activity! And since you already know the
7. Are you able to provide guidance, encouragement and support
importance of hard work, reaching your goals will be a fantastic feeling.
outside of the lessons?
8. Does your schedule allow for consistent, weekly lessons?

If your answers are “Yes”, then it’s a good time for music lessons!

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Lesson locations:
What’s best?
When it comes to lesson location, are in-studio, in-home, or online
lessons better? The convenience of in-home lessons is undeniable, but
there are a few other factors to consider when making the decision.
Will learning at home be a distraction?
Generally children feel most comfortable in their own surroundings;
and it has been proven that you learn 18% quicker if you are in a stress
free environment. The spin off from home tuition for your children, is
that it can actually give you as a parent an hour of rest-bite. Many
parents like to spend this time reading books, cooking, or even having
a bath!
Is travelling an issue?
In-home or online lessons are the perfect option for pupils who
simply want to cut out the weekly commute time. This allows you to
manage your time better, as you can spend those precious minutes
practicing or warming up before your lesson! And with online lessons,
you’re not limited to the teachers in your immediate area – which
increases your chances of finding one who fits best with your goals
and interests.
Ultimately, the decision will come down to your preferences and
schedule.

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How to find a
great music teacher

Whether you want to be the next chart-topper, or just earn a seat in
an orchestra, excelling in music takes hard work, dedication and a
commitment to practicing. You’ll need to make sure you’re not
adopting any bad habits, such as poor posture or incorrect fingerings.
Next, ask the following questions when assessing potential teachers:
1. Has this teacher had a criminal background check done?
2. Have you seen any letters of recommendation or feedback

from previous pupils?

While YouTube videos may be good for learning a couple of guitar
chords, they don’t provide the one-on-one feedback, corrections or 3. Are the lessons taught in a safe and comfortable location?
encouragement that a private teacher will.

Finally, research the quality of the lessons. If you lower your

As you begin to look at available teachers in your area, think about why
you are learning to play your instrument. Are you trying to get a
scholarship for a school? Are you a stressed-out business executive
unwinding after work? Are you an aspiring rockstar? Do you just want
your child to have fun learning an instrument?
standards, you will end up taking lessons for double the amount of
time, causing you to pay far more in the long run and feel frustrated
with the lack of progress.

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What to expect
in your first lesson
First lesson nerves? Completely normal! No matter if you’re eight or
80, the idea of starting something new can be intimidating. You might
be feeling a fear of being judged, or even a fear of failure. Speaking to
your teacher can help, but if you don’t have that opportunity, here are
some general first-lesson guidelines to get you prepared!
What to bring
Obviously you’ll want to bring your instrument, and any accessories
you’ve already purchased, such as a guitar strap, extra reeds, tuner or
metronome. If you aren’t comfortable using these tools yet, this is a
great opportunity for you to learn from an expert. For voice lessons,
bring a bottle of water.
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If you won’t have access to an instrument by your first lesson date, be
sure to let your teacher know. Some teachers may have an extra
instrument you can borrow, or have an alternate lesson plan created
(for example, reviewing notes on a piano can help any new musician).
Others may ask you to postpone the first lesson until you have your
instrument.
What to expect
Every teacher is different, but most first lessons begin with an
assessment of where you are in your studies. If you’re a complete
beginner, you might learn the basics of your instrument. For voice,
this may be the time you learn about breathing and posture. You also
might review note names or begin learning how to read music.
What to expect
in your first lesson
Every teacher is different, but most first lessons begin with an You should also be prepared to discuss your interests and goals. What
assessment of where you are in your studies. If you’re a complete kind of music do you like listening to? What artists or genres do you
beginner, this part will be pretty easy. At this level, you might review want to study? What are your short-term and long-term goals?
the basics of your instrument, such as the different parts, how to hold Having your goals already in place will help your teacher customise
it correctly, and proper care and maintenance. For voice, this may be your lessons and guide you effectively.
the time you learn about breathing and posture. You also might
review note names or begin learning how to read music.

“
If you have some playing experience, you may be asked to sight read a
piece so your teacher can really get a feel for where you are. You can Sometimes it’s best to dive in the
also bring sheet music that you’ve worked on previously, which will be deep end, and sink or swim. As
helpful for your teacher to hear.
the famous sportswear brand

”
decrees, ‘Just Do It’…

Ted’s List Founder | Robert Emery

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Preparing your child
for lessons
First lessons can be especially scary for kids. Here are some tips to help
you quiet those nerves and prepare your child for a successful start:
Talk to your child before their first lesson
If you’ve booked lessons, find your teacher’s profile and photo, sit
down with your child and talk about their new teacher.
It’s also important to talk about your expectations for the lessons.
Make sure your child understands that listening and following the
teacher’s directions is important, and also discuss the practice
expectations outside of the lessons. Music lessons are fun, but they
are also a perfect opportunity to teach responsibility, commitment
and perseverance.
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Get your child’s impressions after the lesson
Ask them what they thought of the lesson and their teacher. Keep in
mind that nervous beginnings are normal, but if your child doesn’t like
specific things about their teacher that you feel will impact their
comfort level, it’s completely fine to try a different teacher. Keep in
mind that sometimes these issues are things that can be resolved by
having a quick chat with your teacher. If you do have concerns and
the issue at hand is something bigger – for example, your teacher isn’t
equipped to handle your rowdy five year old - it’s much better in the
long run to switch sooner rather than later.
Remember that everyone starts somewhere, and your teacher has
worked with many beginners before. So don’t be shy - make the most
of your first lesson, and you’ll be on track for a great experience.

Getting started with music lessons is an exciting time. Thank you for
trusting us to guide you through some of the tough decisions you’ll
make as you book your lessons. No matter where your decisions take
you, we hope you’re inspired to begin and do your best!
With a positive attitude and a great teacher helping you navigate,
you’ll be well on your way to mastering your instrument.
Good luck!
Robert Emery BMus (Hons) RCM, FRSA
Ted’s List Founder
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Our final thoughts
About the Author
Robert D.C. Emery is a conductor, pianist and serial entrepreneur. 
He is lucky enough to travel the world; ranging from performances in
London’s Royal Albert Hall, through to the Sydney Opera House, he has
seen them all. 
Besides being a professional musician, he is the Founder & Director of
The Arts Group; one of the most diverse entertainment companies in the
UK.  Within the portfolio is a national music tuition agency, symphony
orchestra, choir, artist agency, record label and production company. 
Aside from that, he lives in London and Cambridge, has a wife (Mrs E), a
toddler (Master Teddy), a baby (Master Atticus) and 4 cats.
I’m Robert, and I’m lucky to have been a professional musician since the age of 16. 
But if my name is Robert, why is my website called Ted’s List?!?

In 2015 I became a Dad. Teddy entered the world and has since gone on to love
music as much as I do.  Music is my life and passion, touring the world as a
conductor and pianist, performing with the most amazing talents on this planet.
But how could I help Teddy’s friends and parents with their musical education? 
Ted’s List is the answer.

So here I am… Sharing my story, knowledge and passion, in the hope it inspires
you to commit to music in some form.  If I could get one ‘result’ from this site, it is
getting you to take ACTION. All with the hope that you have music wrapped
around you like I’ve done my whole life… It’s what I call my ‘Musical Duvet’. 

I really do hope you find the content on my blog helpful. I’m sure it will save you
time and money in finding the very best of what you need, for the lowest possible
price. And most importantly of all – I hope it inspires you in your music-making.

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