Questions parents and students ask
Straight answers about starting lessons, choosing an instrument, exams and enrolling. Can't find yours? Message us on WhatsApp.
Starting out
What age can my child start music lessons?
Most children start from age 5. Piano, violin and ukulele suit young beginners well; guitar and drums are often easier from about 7, when hands are bigger. We also teach adults of every age.
Is it too late to start as an adult?
No. Many of our students start as adults. Lessons are one-to-one, so the teacher works at your pace and around the music you want to play.
Which instrument should my child learn first?
Piano gives a strong all-round foundation in reading music. Ukulele is small, light and quick to enjoy. If your child already loves a particular instrument, that enthusiasm matters most. Not sure? A lesson bundle lets you try a few first.
Do I need my own instrument?
Not to start. Drum kits, amps, pianos and keyboards are provided in the studios. For guitar, violin and other portable instruments, bring your own or ask us about one. Owning an instrument helps with practice at home.
Piano or keyboard: which should I choose?
Piano lessons focus on reading music, technique and graded exams. Keyboard lessons focus on chords, accompaniment and playing popular songs. Many students start on keyboard and move to piano, or the other way round.
Lessons
Are lessons one-to-one or in a group?
Most lessons are one-to-one, set to the student's pace. Group classes run for selected instruments and times; ask us what is available.
How do I choose a teacher?
Tell us the instrument, your goals and the times that suit you in the enrolment form. Our office matches you with a teacher and a weekly time, usually on WhatsApp. You can also ask for a particular teacher.
Can I try different instruments or teachers?
Yes. A lesson bundle lets new students try different teachers and instruments before committing to weekly lessons.
How much should my child practise?
Little and often works best: 10 to 15 minutes a day for young beginners, more as they progress. Your teacher will set practice that fits.
Exams and performing
Which music exams can students take?
Our teachers prepare students for ABRSM, Trinity College London and Rockschool (RSL) graded exams, and music theory exams. GC is a Rockschool exam centre. Exams are optional.
Do students get to perform?
Yes. Students perform at our concerts and showcases through the year, from mini concerts to the Sound of GC concert series, and can join workshops and band programmes.
Can Rockschool grades help with music college?
Rockschool Grade 6 or above can open the door to ACM, the Academy of Contemporary Music in the UK, through its partnership with RSL Awards. Ask your teacher whether it suits your goals.
Enrolling
How do I enrol?
Fill in the enrolment form on this website. Our office will contact you, usually on WhatsApp, with a teacher, a weekly lesson time and the fees.
Where are the branches?
How can I ask a question before enrolling?
WhatsApp us on 011-1089 1200 or call 03-7733 6452. We are happy to help you choose an instrument, a teacher and a time.