Getting Started
Lesson Information / Terms and Conditions
Clarinet / Sax / Flute
Clarinet
For students learning the clarinet, it is essential to have their own instrument in good playing condition. If you're unsure which model is suitable, please contact us for recommendations before purchasing or hiring.
It is also highly recommended that students take private lessons to support their school band participation and individual progress.
Students will need the following:
- A quality reeds pack (size and brand suited to the student's level - we can advise on this)
- A reed case to store reeds properly
- A cleaning swab and cork grease
- A metronome
Recommended books to get started:
- Tradition of Excellence (Book 1) - B. Pearson & R. Nowlin
- Essential Elements for Clarinet - Hal Leonard
- Rhythm Reading for All Instruments - Anne C. Witt
(More advanced books and repertoire will be introduced as the student progresses.)
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Saxophone
All saxophone students should have regular access to their instrument - either alto or tenor saxophone, depending on their school program. Instruments must be in good working order. We're happy to assist with recommendations for purchase or hire.
Private lessons are highly encouraged to support technical development, tone production, and reading skills.
Students will need the following:
- A pack of quality reeds ( we can advise on appropriate size and brand)
- A reed case for proper storage
- Cleaning supplies (including a swab, mouthpiece brush, and cork grease)
- A metronome
Recommended books to get started:
- Tradition of Excellence (Book 1) - B. Pearson & R. Nowlin
- Essential Elements for Saxophone - Hal Leonard
- Rhythm Reading for All Instruments - Anne C. Witt
Percussion / Drums
Percussion
For students participating in a school band program, it is highly recommended that they take percussion lessons. These lessons cover a wide range of instruments, including keyboard percussion, snare drum, timpani, and more.
We also recommend purchasing a percussion pack that includes both a snare drum and a student glockenspiel. These are available from Optimum Percussion.
High school students are encouraged to invest in the Luke Thatcher Pro Mallet Pack, also available from Optimum Percussion. This pack contains all the essential sticks and mallets required for their band program.
Additionally, every percussion student must own a metronome.
Recommended books to get started:
- The Snare Drummer's Toolbox - Row-Loff Productions
- The Mallet Player's Toolbox - Row-Loff Productions
- The Essential Guide to Reading Rhythm - Bill Kezelos
(More books and repertoire will be recommended as the student progresses)
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Drum Kit
It is strongly recommended that drum kit students own their own kit. At a minimum, the kit should be a 5-piece set with a ride cymbal, crash cymbal, and hi-hats, particularly if the student plans to take examinations.
While acoustic drum kits are preferred, electronic kits are a suitable alternative if noise or space is a concern. Please feel free to contact us for advice on which kit would be most suitable for your needs.
All students must also have a metronome.
Recommended books to get started:
- Drum Sessions (Books 1 & 2) - Peter O'Gorman
- The Essential Guide to Reading Rhythm - Bill Kezelos
- Survival Guide for the Modern Drummer - Jim Riley
Terms and Conditions
1. Lessons missed owing to illness will be made up at the teacher's discretion, and only when notification is received by the teacher no later than 7:30am on the morning of the lesson.
2. Notification of a student's inability to attend a lesson due to a scheduled school excursion, medical appointment, or examination is the responsibility of the parent or student and must be given to the private teacher at the earliest opportunity and no later than 24 hours prior to the lesson time, otherwise the lesson will be forfeited.
3. It is the expectation that if a student is well enough to attend school, then they will attend their music lessons, even if a minor ailment precludes them playing or singing, as aural work and musicianship can be covered during that time.
4. Where a teacher offers alternative times for missed lessons and these do not prove convenient, the lessons will be forfeited.
5. Where a student wishes to present for an external examination, the teacher reserves the right to decide, if, when and what level the pupil should enter and having entered, reserves the right to decide whether or not the pupil should present for that examination.
6. Students learning an instrument are expected to participate in appropriate musical ensembles where applicable.
7. For any student to succeed or make progress in learning to play an instrument, regular practice is required. Parents are encouraged to assist their child in the establishment of a regular practice routine, with the guidance of their instrumental teacher. The rate of progress and the amount of pleasure derived from playing an instrument is directly related to the amount and quality of practice undertaken by the student.