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Dec 01 2024
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how to make cheap guitar sound expensive

How to make a cheap guitar sound expensive

By Music Articles No Comments

How to make a cheap guitar sound expensive

how to make cheap guitar sound expensive

We have been sold the idea that a cheap guitar can never sound as good as an expensive one. The premium price tag gave the illusion that it must be better because it cost more. While there are valid reasons why a costly guitar bears that price tag, an entry-level guitar can be equally good when used correctly! In this article, we want to share 4 guitarists who reaffirmed the theory of Tone Is In The Fingers. Let’s dive in!

What is the first step to GREAT TONE?

I guess by now you are aware that perhaps the great tone came from great skill on the guitar. What better way to improve your tone than to have someone to guide you on every step? Taking lessons ensures your progress is efficient and effective!

We are a music school in Singapore offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

Jack Thammarat proves that Tone is in the fingers

Jack Thammarat lost his guitarImagine landing in a foreign country for your guitar performance but your guitar is nowhere to be found. Yup, that happened to Jack Thammarat earlier this November. After landing in India, he was told that his guitar was not on the same plane as him. We are talking about his trusty Yamaha, the one made by the USA custom shop with all the bells and whistles!

Instead of his custom-made guitar, Yamaha gave him an entry-level Pacifica PAC012 for the gig! Which he performed flawlessly! It left fans dropping their jaws and wondering how he managed to do that. The guitar eventually reached him in India but only after the show was over.

 

 

 

John Mayer can make a cheap guitar sound expensive!

John Mayer sounds great on his expensive custom shop guitars but he can also make a cheap guitar sound just the same! This wild moment happened during one of John Mayer’s concerts when a fan got more than he asked for! The fan hoped for a signature on his guitar, but John picked it up from him and started playing like it was his.

Joe Satriani sounds expensive with a cheap guitar!

This is perhaps one of the most legendary videos in guitar history, at least to me. The video shows Joe playing something that is not his signature Ibanez guitar but sounds like he would have on better gear. This video reinforces the idea that tone is in the fingers! Confirming what guitar teachers will often say during guitar lessons! Practice, practice, and practice! Joe Satriani is also famously known as the guitar teacher of the legendary Steve Vai. Guess what…

Steve Vai makes any guitar sounds like his expensive Ibanez Jem

Steve Vai, like many other Ibanez artists, is rarely seen using anything that isn’t an Ibanez. Most of these guitarists are loyal to the brand that has provided tremendous help for their career. However, in this one rare video, we can see Steve Vai playing a Parker Fly that belongs to a fan. These are very different guitars as compared to Steve’s signature model. The weight, balance, feel and tone take some getting used to. Yet, Steve played it like a fiddle.

What is the secret then?

Good techniques, proper guitar lessons, and consistent and effective practice habits are the keys to achieving a masterful tone on almost any guitar. While self-studying the craft is possible, taking guitar classes accelerates your progress. This is akin to why sports have coaches. A coach’s role is to analyse and study how they can help their athletes attain their optimum performance. Well, it is the same for music schools with dedicated music teachers. We have the best interest in helping you or your child get the best out of your music education.

So if you are looking for guitar lessons, consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you.

Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Nov 30 2024
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how to choose guitar strings

How do you choose the right guitar strings?

By Music Articles, Music Instruments No Comments

How do you choose the right guitar strings?

how to choose guitar strings

I’m sure you’d know how destructive it would be if you did not choose the right guitar string. Your guitar will play differently due to the change in tension. Some parts of your guitar might get damaged in the process. You could even snap a fresh string and cut yourself! In short, being ignorant about your guitar strings is never a good idea. So how do we choose the right set of guitar strings? Let’s dive deep!

Should I sign up for guitar lessons to learn about string changing?

It is a ridiculous statement to suggest that you should sign up for guitar lessons to learn about string changing. However, guitar string changing IS part of guitar lessons in most music schools in Singapore. String changing is not an easy task!

However, if you are capable of changing strings on your own but need guidance in guitar playing, we are here to help! We are a music school in Singapore offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

What are the things I need to know about guitar strings?

Thankfully, you need to know just a few things about guitar strings before buying a pack! Let’s take a look at typical string packaging and the information present.

Gauge

The thickness of the strings. Most strings are labeled with just the thinnest and thickest strings on the front of the packaging for faster shopping. The rest of the specs are usually printed at the back of the packaging. Here are some common string gauges.

  • Acoustic: (a) 0.011 to 0.052, (b) 0.012 to 0.053
  • Electric: (a) 0.009 to 0.042, (b) 0.010 to 0.046
  • Ukulele: G (0.028), C (0.032), E (0.040), A (0.028)
  • Classical: Medium tension (recommended)
  • Bass: 0.045, 0.065, 0.085, 0.105

What happens if I use the wrong gauge?

Typically, the retail staff will recommend you some safer options should you be unaware of the current gauge of your strings. While there are no formal industry standards, most major brands ships their instruments with the same few options of string thickness! You can also go to the product website and have a look at the spec sheet. But ok let’s talk about the what ifs.

  • Too light – Your strings may start hitting onto your fretboard easily and cause notes to make an unpleasant buzzing sound. If you happened to restring way too light, the tension of the strings may not be enough to create enough clearance between the strings and the fretboard. You may end up with a guitar that has strings sitting flat on the fretboard.
  • Too heavy – Your strings will pull the neck in a tension more than it can handle and causing it to bow more than it should. If you are on a floating bridge, it will be tilted forward instead of sitting balanced and flat. You might break your bridge off the guitar if you are on a fixed bridge setup. Indeed, you can break your guitar when stringing them with strings that are way too heavy for it to handle.

Guitarists are fussy and hence the reason for the wide variety of string gauge. To change your string gauge to something different, you can send your guitar into a qualified tech (such as GuitarGeeksSG ) and these professionals will be able re-setup your guitar based on your new string gauge. It is a complicated process to fine tune the guitar. However, a right setup will mean that you will be enjoying your guitar more than before!

Material

The material of the string can reshape your guitar’s tone drastically. It is also the most common reason why there are so many different types out there! However, not every has the patience to try out every different types of materials out there. Hence, we usually refer to the description on the packaging, word of mouth or simply follow what our favourite guitarist(s) are using. To help you shorten your search for the best tone, here are some of the common materials and their characteristics.

  • Electric Guitar
    • Nickel-plated steel – Balance and smooth tone
    • Pure Nickel – Warmer tone
    • Stainless Steel – Bright and strong tone
  • Acoustic Guitar
    • 80/20 Bronze – Bright tone with a strong bass
    • Phosphor Bronze – Warm and smooth tone
  • Ukulele
    • Nylon – default ukulele string material
    • Fluorocarbon – Fishing line rebranded as premium ukulele strings. Thinner than nylon and brighter tone
  • Classica Guitar
    • Medium Tension – Balance tone
    • High Tension – Stronger attack and punchier bass tone
  • Bass Guitar
    • Steel – Brightest tone
    • Nickel/Steel Alloy – Bright tone
    • Pure Nickel – Warm and smooth tone

One more thing to note about string material is that the characteristic of the tone does not remain consistent throughout its lifespan on your instrument. As you play, the string gets stretched out, aged, tarnished, and even rusted. There are simply too many reasons why the tone doesn’t stay the same as day one. However, that’s not really an issue for musicians of certain genres. Some bassists believes they should never change their strings, only to boil them in hot water to clean them before reusing them. They believe this will allow them to have that warm tone they desire. Some guitarists would do a monthly string changing because they prefer the bright tone from a fresh set of strings. During one of Tommy Emmanuel’s clinics in Singapore many years ago, he mentioned that his strings are changed before every show! I do wonder how true and consistent could that be. Regardless, I should remind you that Tone Is In The Fingers!

Coating

Simply put, while coated strings are usually 2-3 times more expensive than non-coated versions, the coating makes your strings last longer and hence makes more monetary sense. Of course, your guitar has to have good-quality hardware and has been set up perfectly to reduce the chance of string breakage while playing. A set of coated strings from popular brands can last you anywhere from 2-3 months to more than 6 months. There are a few common factors that will cause even the coated strings to rust. If you have any of these following, your best bet is to stick to coated strings.

  • Sweaty palms and fingers
  • You’re in a place with high humidity
  • You practice aggressively on a very regular basis and cause high wear and tear
  • Changing strings regularly is not something you want to do
  • Buying new strings regularly will affect your budgeting

Still unsure about how to choose your guitar strings?

The last thing anybody wants is to damage their guitar because of a wrong set of strings. Choosing the right set of strings is only part of the equation, let’s not forget about the right technique for restringing a guitar. Restringing your guitar the wrong way can also cause significant damage. If you are unsure, we strongly recommend you leave it to the professionals.

GuitarGeeks.Sg

There are quite a few very established and reputable guitar techs in Singapore. Most of them are very reliable and offer great value for their service. One of them is Guitar Geeks Sg and they can be reachable here.

But if guitar lessons are what you need, we are ready to help you become the guitarist you wish to be. Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you.

Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Nov 27 2024
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Things to look out for when buying a guitar in Singapore

Things to look out for when buying a guitar in Singapore

By Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Music Articles No Comments

Things to look out for when buying a guitar in Singapore

Things to look out for when buying a guitar in Singapore

Singapore is a bustling city with a rich community of music schools and guitar shops! But every country has its unique culture and practices especially when it comes to guitar shops. So if you are new to guitar shopping here on the sunny island of Singapore, this article might help make your trip easier!

Guitar Lessons in Singapore

Before we share spicy information about our guitar shops, allow me to share what we do! We are a music school in Singapore offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

Perhaps a recommendation of the top 5 guitars in Singapore?

Top 5 Acoustic Guitar for ChristmasHaving a list of suitable guitars before heading down to the guitar shop is always a good idea. This makes you prepared and informed before getting convinced about something that you might regret later on. In our previous article, we shared our Top 5 Acoustic Guitar for this Christmas in Singapore. Perhaps that article might help you get a better understanding of what is available here on Sunny Island Singapura.

We have more of such articles underway! If you wish to be informed, consider following us on Facebook.

Buying a Guitar in Singapore is not the same anywhere else

Okay, let’s get to the juicy bits about buying a guitar in Singapore. Guitar shops are kind of like what they have described in Hotel California, “you can check out anytime you like but you can never leave“. Well, that is either you have made your purchase or you have mustered enough strength! I mean, they are candy shops!

Guitar shops here are categorized into Big and Small. They have very different vibes and ways of doing. So do remember to apply our pro tips accordingly!

Big Guitar Shops and their uniqueness

  • NOBODY IS SERVING ME

Big guitar shops are often understaffed and do not have the capacity to deal with every single customer walking in. If you are walking in hoping for someone to help, such shops might not be your best bet.

    • Snag a salesman up the minute you are able to make eye contact with one. Learning their name typically lets them know you are serious about buying something.
    • State your intention such as the type of guitar or the guitarist you are trying to model after.
  • THE SHOP IS SO NOISY

Because of the lack of staff, it is usually tough for them to do noise control. After all, it is a shop selling items that make sound! Some guitar shops do have a special room, a nice and quiet place that allows you to audition the guitar. But not all of the bigger music shops out there have such luxury.

    • Visit these guitar shops during quieter times such as weekday mornings.
    • Ask if they have a room for you to try the instrument.
  • THE STAFF DON’T KNOW ANYTHING

Now this is quite typical with most retailers. Especially with the holiday season fast approaching, many of these staff you encounter might be on their holiday job. Because they are students working during their holiday, they don’t usually have the most adequate training and experience.

    • Do your research by reading articles such as this one.
    • YouTube is a great source for learning all the information you need in a short time.

Smaller Guitar Shops and their quirkiness

  • THEY KEPT FOLLOWING ME AROUND

This quirkiness is commonly found in shoe shops too! Our best bet is because the staff are just too eager to serve you. Also, guitars are fragile and not that cheap.

    • Greet the guys in the shop first before you shop.
    • Tell them what you are looking for and ask for their advice.
  • THEY DON’T LET ME TRY THE GUITAR

Yes, this is true to a certain extent. Some guitar shops actually forbid their customer from trying their guitars. The staff would perform a tune on the guitar for you before hanging it back on the rack while leaving you confused. Their intention meant no harm, especially to the guitars.

    • Let the staff perform on as many guitars as you wish for you.
    • After comparing a few, try to narrow down your options.
    • Ask to try the guitar if you are certain about buying it.
  • WHY ARE THEY SO ANGRY

Trust me they are not angry but just displaying some kind of defense mechanism that they have developed over time. You see, while there are many genuine buyers, there are also plenty who have time to kill. Smaller guitar shops do not have the time and resources to waste on customers who are just window shopping.

    • Remember that this is just a unique culture developed over time.
    • No matter what they say, do not engage in unnecessary arguments.
    • Beneath it all, they are nice people. Especially when money is on the table.

Disclaimer: Before presenting this article as some sort of proof during your shopping trip, please be reminded that what we are sharing here is based on our personal experience. They are only true to a certain extent. 

Conclusion about buying guitars in Singapore

Buying a guitar in Singapore can be a lot of fun. As Singapore is the busiest port in the world, we have pretty much every brand and model you can think of! We have access to a list of limited edition models, top-of-the-line boutique brands, and rare collectors. However Singapore is not just for the rich, the vast collection of lower-end and more affordable guitars helps most kids here to learn the guitar. So while we do not have our very own Ochanomizu guitar street, guitar shopping is still very accessible here in Singapore.

Talk to us if you are interested in signing up for guitar lessons. Or, take a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you.

Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Nov 05 2024
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Learn Piano on your own in 5 steps!

By Music Articles No Comments

Learn Piano on your own in 5 steps!

While most people prefer attending piano lessons in Singapore, it is entirely possible to learn the piano without attending lessons! In this article, we want to use our 10 years of experience running our music school to help you skip piano lessons! Yes, you heard that right! While this may not be suitable for everyone, it might just benefit you. Let’s dive in.

Step 1: You can learn piano without a teacher but not without a piano!

Step 1 of teaching yourself the piano is, obviously, to have the right tool to learn it. If you are thinking of using the Garageband on your iPad, please drop that idea. Piano playing requires that tactile sensation of hitting a key and the touch screen devices simply can’t offer it. However, we understand that committing to an acoustic piano is a heavy decision. But we are here to help! Read our article “A guide to buying your first piano” to have a clearer idea!

Piano lessons in Singapore

Kaiser is using a digital keyboard for his piano performance!

 

Step 2: Revise your music theory!

If you grew up in Singapore, you would have completed at least 10 years of music theory during your music classes during school! During the last 10 years, Vinnie Classroom has been one of the many vendors in Singapore offering music lessons. Commonly referred to as AMIS (Arts and Music Instructor Scheme), it is a registry of instructors with MOE for providing what we specialize in. However, being physically there during music lessons is enormously different from paying attention and learning what was taught. Thankfully you can still revise and get yourself back on track with music theory books and lessons! Piano playing requires a good grasp of music theory and there are plenty of resources these days. Rockschool and ABSRM offer music theory examinations and they are very popular amongst our students. Of course, if reading these books on your own isn’t working, you can consider signing up for our music theory lessons! Our teachers go through regular training to keep their minds fresh too! Because everyone needs help on this topic.

ANZCA Piano Asia Representative Ms. Audrey Chin

Ms Chin teaching interesting music theory during a teachers’ training session!

Step 3: Work on good piano-playing postures and techniques

The most commonly overlooked factor for most self-taught musicians has to be proper postures and techniques. Because of the lack of a piano teacher, most people are unable to tell if they are doing it right. However, this article intends to help you learn the piano correctly on your own, so we are sharing some useful pointers to take note of when practicing. Moreover, modern technology and the abundance of free resources have made self-learning more accessible and achievable than ever.

  • Use your phone to video your practice session and use it to review your piano techniques and postures.
  • Place a mirror by the side of your piano for instant correction of habits.
  • Refer to helpful Infogrames. For example, refer to our Good Piano Posture infogram below!
  • Search the internet for more information! Google is your best friend 😀
Good Piano Playing Posture

Infogram on Good Piano Posture

Step 4: The essentials of piano playing

Piano playing is impossible if one does not possess good dexterity on their fingers. Many will struggle during this stage and give up easily, with a list of complaints that are almost identical.

“I cannot play the piano because…”

  • my fingers are not moving as I want them to.
  • the notes are too far apart and my hands are too small.
  • I have no strength to press the keys down after a while.
  • there is no way I can get my left and right hands to move independently.
  • the keys feel the same so I kept hitting the wrong notes.

If you find yourself using the same complaints as the list above, keep in mind that you are not alone. Even the most professional pianist once faced the same issues on the piano.

So how do we get past these common issues faced by beginners on the piano then? Well for a start, beginners practice scales on the piano! Scales are more than just a set of notes, they are essential to music creation and also to getting your fingers strong, agile, and accurate on the 88 keys. So you are done with scales, then you may consider trying some practice method books! These books will cover other elements of music such as arpeggios, chords, and cadences.

piano lessons relief stress

Piano playing should be a form of stress relief.

 

Step 5: Pick a song let’s go!

You should be feeling very comfortable on the piano by this stage of your music journey. All your fingers should be ready and your brain should be processing those notes as fast as you read a book. It is time to pick your first song and dive right in. BUT here is where people start giving up. During regular music lessons, the teacher will be able to spot and correct your mistakes as you practice. They can also share better ways to accelerate your learning pace on the song you are working on. Based on your lifestyle, a good teacher can share useful tips on how to practice your instrument.  Being alone means the lack of helpful eyes to keep you on track. Regardless, here are some of our tips on learning a song.

  1. Listen to the song as many times as you need. You know you are ready when you can sing out every part of the song.
  2. Tackle one small section of the song at a time. Don’t try to play through the song like a tractor plowing through the field.
  3. Work on difficult sections slowly before increasing speed.
  4. Use a metronome.
  5. Video your practice for review purposes.

That’s it! You’ve got it! Congratulations on picking the piano. We hope our article is helpful to you and gives you the much-needed confidence.

What if I am still unsuccessful?

Learning the piano by yourself is indeed a very challenging task. If you feel like you can’t play the piano as well as you like, then you might want to consider enrolling for formal piano lessons. Talk to us about your piano lessons. Or, take a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you.

Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Nov 04 2024
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Adults taking piano lessons in Singapore

Can an Adult Learn Piano?

By Music Articles No Comments

Can an Adult Learn Piano?

The question is not “Can an adult learn piano?” It is about the challenges and benefits. Based on our decade of experience as a music school in Singapore, we can confidently address this age-old question. So if you are an adult looking for some answers, let’s dive in and get you sorted out.

Adults taking piano lessons in Singapore

Singapore Uncle playing the piano

Why do Adults want to Learn the Piano?

It is on most adults’ bucket list to learn the piano. The reason for learning can vary quite a bit! Based on our experience offering piano lessons in Singapore, here is a list of reasons.

  • They believe learning the piano can help them shift their focus and reduce stress.
  • Learning the piano feels like an excellent workout for their stiffening fingers.
  • It can help fight dementia.
  • Piano music is too beautiful and listening to it is not enough.
  • Something they could not afford time and money to learn when they were younger.

Our perspectives shift as we move through different stages of life. While understanding why we should learn to play the piano is important, it’s often not enough. Starting something new requires courage, discipline, and determination. Many people worry about the possibility of failure and wasting their time, even before giving it a try. Whatever your reason for hesitating, we’re here to support you. Let us share the inspiring story of an adult who took the leap of faith to learn the piano with us. We will also explore the benefits of embarking on this piano journey.

Encik, the adult piano student who became our inspiration!

James, or Encik as we affectionately call him, is one of our most dedicated adult piano students. Even though he has been with us for many years, his passion for music continues to inspire everyone around him. Despite being surrounded by younger students, he never finds it awkward to share the stage with them. He embraces every performance opportunity with confidence and enthusiasm. He works tirelessly on his pieces and always striving for excellence! His commitment shines through in every performance. His hard work and unwavering determination set a wonderful example for our entire music school, proving that the love of music transcends age.
James is the best example of how an adult benefited from learning the piano. As an adult, he understands the true meaning of practicing, is able to plan his schedule well, and has discipline. In short, adults can see the bigger picture that children simply can’t process. Adults also have more learning experiences to help them apply it to their piano lessons, ensuring they benefit the most from every lesson.

piano lessons relief stress

What can an Adult benefit from taking Piano Lessons?

One of the most rewarding benefits is finally being able to check off the goal of “I can play the piano.” Overall, learning the piano as an adult can be a fulfilling and enriching experience that enhances both mental and emotional well-being.

  • Stress Relief: Playing the piano can be a therapeutic escape from daily stress, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Musicians love being “in the zone” during their practice sessions. It is a feeling where the world around you seemingly disappears, time is irrelevant and every note you play creates a blissful experience.
  • Cognitive Improvement: Learning music enhances memory, problem-solving skills, and overall brain function, as it engages multiple areas of the brain simultaneously. Playing a musical instrument, like Mahjong, has the benefit of fighting dementia.
  • Improved Focus and Patience: Practicing piano requires concentration and patience, fostering a sense of discipline and mindfulness that can be applied to other areas of life. It also develops our sense of humility, enhancing our humbleness and helping us improve.
  • Boosted Self-Confidence: Mastering a new skill brings a sense of accomplishment and self-assurance, especially when performing for others or achieving personal milestones. Most of our students feel a sense of achievement after they take the stage during our annual recital. They feel very good about themselves!
  • Creative Expression: Playing the piano allows adults to express emotions and creativity, offering a fulfilling and enjoyable way to communicate through music.
  • Enhanced Coordination: Similar to certain types of computer games, piano playing improves hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, which are beneficial in maintaining dexterity as one ages. The spider-sense in us deteriorates as we age, we must sharpen it through various activities, and piano playing ranks at the top of the list.
  • Social Opportunities: Joining recitals or group classes can open up social connections with others who share a passion for music, building a supportive community. Like James, many of our students made new friends through various events. Such opportunities reinforce the first benefit of our list, stress relief!

Conclusion on piano lessons for adult

If you are ready for all these benefits, we are here to assist you with your piano lessons. If you need something better than a chat, take a Trial Lesson with us! Regardless, we would like to share that it is a wonderful experience to be able to play the piano. The joy of music creation is hard to describe but it keeps us happy.

Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Oct 28 2024
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Piano lessons in Singapore

When is the best age for Piano Lessons in Singapore?

By Music Articles No Comments

When is the best age for Piano Lessons in Singapore?

Piano lessons in Singapore

Piano lessons have long been a top priority for parents in Singapore. Together with our legendary Kiasu mentality, no parents would want their child to lose out on the benefits of picking up the piano. However, a quick search on the internet will leave you wondering when is the best age to send your children for piano lessons in Singapore. Some websites will tell you it is 3 years old, others might say 10 years old. The number is arbitrary and never consistent. In this article, we aim to use our experience running a music school for the last 10 years to demystify and help all parents in Singapore.

Why do parents love sending their children to Piano lessons in Singapore?

Before we share what is the mysterious golden age to send your child, perhaps we can direct your attention to our previous article! “Music Lessons makes us Superhumans“. You might understand the deeper reason why parents love sending their children to piano lessons in Singapore. Sometimes, it is beyond what they can gain in a classroom environment. Check out our students’ performance! We all love our children and we want the best for them. Hence if there are ways to help them develop better than what we had growing up, I’m sure most will give them all we can. Perhaps this is the main reason why we want to send them for piano lessons as early as possible.

Piano lesson singapore

So, is the perfect age 3 years old or 10 years old?

As said in the first paragraph, there is no actual golden number right here. For some kids it is 3, it could also be 7, and for others, it might be 10. To be very clear, we are not talking about a cooking recipe but a human child. Everyone is different hence there is no one-size-fits-all formula. However, use the following pointers to check if your child is ready! If you can check every one of the checkboxes, then congratulations, it might be a good time to look for a music school in Singapore.

  • Your child is able to take instructions.
  • He/she can sit for at least 30 minutes at the same spot.
  • Frequently spotted doing activities like drawing or reading in deep focus.
  • Capable and confident of being aware of their parents without anxiety.
  • Strong motor skills include tasks like using chopsticks, picking up small objects like grains of rice from the floor, or putting on shoes.
  • Shows a genuine interest in music. It could be through singing, dancing, or trying any instruments you have at home.

What if I am not sure if my child is ready?

Sending your child for piano lessons is not all that you need to consider. They need to be able to practice at home and Piano is a hefty investment. If you feel unsure despite checking all the checkboxes above, then you might want to let them try on a small keyboard first. Read our article “A Guide to buying your first Piano for lessons in Singapore”.  You may be surprised to learn that you can start teaching your child piano at home before enrolling them in formal piano lessons.

But if you still have some questions, you can talk to us about your piano lessons. Or, take a Trial Lesson with us!

Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Oct 22 2024
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ANZCA Jazz Syllabus

Piano Lessons in Singapore need training

By Music Articles No Comments

Piano Lessons in Singapore need training

Piano Lessons Singapore

Piano lessons in Singapore Music School

Training for piano lessons in Singapore is an indispensable part of the job. Piano teachers want the best for their students and will go to great lengths to craft better music lessons. Vinnie Classroom, a music school in Singapore, is no stranger to hosting music workshops for piano teachers. Over the years, we had the honor of hosting training programs for various examination boards.

Private Piano Lessons in Singapore

In Singapore, we refer to traveling piano teachers as private piano teachers. However, the same term can be applied to a piano teacher who runs a small music studio that typically has just 1 piano. Such music teachers rely on networking and the community to share their resources, updates, and even student enquiries. Fanny from Clavier Loft stood out as one of the most popular piano teachers in Yishun. She is a decorated piano teacher who is very good with young children. She also juggles her success as a piano teacher and a mother of 2 lovely girls effortlessly. However, despite being good with her profession, she has never shy away from training and upgrading. Always goes the extra mile to keep herself updated.

private piano lessons Singapore

ABRSM, ANZCA, Rockschool and more…

Examination boards hold regular seminars for music teachers and music schools in Singapore. They update their syllabus to keep up with the current standard of musicians. Often updating their repertoires with current favorites! One of the most recent seminars was held by Rockschool London. It was a great gathering of music schools and music teachers. Sharing more than just the content of the syllabus but insights of teaching methods they deploy during their music lessons.

Music school singapore

Conclusion

We all want the best for our students and don’t mind doing the invisible tasks. While not written in stone, it is safe to say all music schools in Singapore share a common goal of wanting the best for their students. Creating the safest environment for them to grow and develop. Becoming a better person in all aspects through the power of music lessons.

Talk to us about your piano lessons. Or, take a Trial Lesson with us!

Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Oct 15 2024
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Alternatives to ABRSM for piano lessons in Singapore

Alternatives to ABRSM

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Alternatives to ABRSM

As a music school in Singapore, we are often asked about the alternatives to ABRSM for piano lessons. The common reason why parents are less keen on sending their child to classical piano is usually because it is irrelevant. At face value, piano lessons are about the ability to play beautiful classical pieces. But if we dive deeper, the benefits that come along are reasons why classical pieces are still very relevant. However, we shall leave those in our next article and focus on the alternatives to ARBSM today.

 

Some examples of ABRSM alternatives

Before we share more about the available alternatives to ARBSM, do take a look at what our students have put up. The Vinnie Classroom Piano Series  is a series of performances done by our students using songs from the ANZCA syllabus. As shown in the videos, students were enjoying their lessons and excited to share what they can do on the piano. As music teachers, it is important for us to keep out students motivated, a good syllabus definitely makes it easier. More on ANZCA later this article.

List of Piano Syllabus available in Singapore

To help with your research, here is a list of piano syllabi offered by music schools in Singapore with piano lessons.

Broadly speaking, every music school in Singapore can create its syllabus. Yamaha is one example where they have their in-house syllabus that is not related to any others on this list. The question should be about why we choose one syllabus from another.

Australian and New Zealand Cultural Arts (ANZCA)

One of the most well-established alternatives to ABRSM is ANZCA. ANZCA’s music exams offer a broad range of options for musicians of all levels. Their repertoire includes genre such as blues, jazz and pop!

  • Wide Genre Options: ANZCA allows students to choose from a wider variety of pieces, offering more flexibility in exploring different genres and styles.
  • Performance-Oriented: ANZCA uses pieces that are often more upbeat and modern, setting students up to be performance-oriented.

Piano Lessons in Singapore have changed drastically!

In our previous article, we shared how Piano lessons in Singapore have changed drastically. In the article, we focus on how ANZCA benefited our piano lessons.

Trinity College London (TCL)

One of the most well-established alternatives to ABRSM is Trinity College London. What sets Trinity apart is its flexibility in exam repertoire and the ability to focus more on practical skills than theory for some students.

  • Repertoire Freedom: Trinity allows students to choose from a wider variety of pieces, offering more flexibility.
  • Performance-Oriented: Trinity places greater emphasis on musicality and performance, allowing students to express themselves through their playing.
  • Rock & Pop Exams: In addition to classical exams, Trinity offers Rock & Pop assessments for students who are more inclined toward contemporary genres. This includes vocals, guitar, drums, and more.

London College of Music Examinations (LCME)

London College of Music Examinations (LCME), part of the University of West London, provides another highly regarded alternative. LCME’s exams are recognized internationally and cover a broad spectrum of musical disciplines.

  • Comprehensive Subject Choices: LCME also offers contemporary music, music technology, and even composition.
  • Digital Exams: LCME has embraced modern technology by offering online and recorded assessment options. This makes it easier for students to take exams remotely.
  • Flexible Syllabus: The LCME syllabus is designed to be flexible, catering to different learning paces and preferences. Students can mix classical and contemporary pieces to reflect their individual music journeys.

Rockschool (RSL)

For students with a passion for contemporary music styles like rock, pop, and metal, Rockschool (RSL) is an excellent choice. Specializing in graded exams for popular music instruments like guitar, bass, drums, vocals, and piano, Rockschool offers an exciting alternative to the more traditional classical path.

  • Pop & Rock Focus: With its focus on genres that are more popular in today’s music scene, Rockschool’s syllabus caters to students looking to learn and perform contemporary music.
  • Skills Beyond Playing: RSL exams emphasize broader musical skills, such as improvisation, composition, and playing in bands, which are essential for many professional musicians today.
  • Accessible Learning: Rockschool is ideal for students who may not connect as deeply with classical music but still want to achieve measurable musical progress.

Conclusion on Alternatives to ABRSM

Do we actually need any alternatives to ABRSM? The answer is largely based on how you want your piano lessons to be. In Singapore, we are pampered with the wide options available for music lessons! Choice overloading is a real situation, it is a cognitive impairment.  It often leads us to lesser confidence, greater regrets, and overall dissatisfaction. So while nothing is conclusive, we hope our article helped shed some lights on the options on your plate.

Talk to us, we are here to help. Or, take a Trial Lesson with us!

Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Oct 01 2024
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Piano Lessons in Singapore have changed drastically!

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Piano Lessons in Singapore have changed drastically!: Beyond Classical Music and Examinations

Ryan enjoying his lesson on Blues Piano!

Piano Lessons have changed drastically in today’s world, especially in Singapore. Learning the piano has evolved far beyond the traditional focus on classical pieces and graded examinations like ABRSM. While those aspects are still valuable, modern piano lessons are now more diverse. Students to explores different genres such as jazz, pop, and even electronic music. Instead of focusing solely on technical precision, modern piano lessons emphasize making learning more engaging for today’s students.

Exploration of Multiple Genres

Unlike in the past, where classical music dominated piano lessons, students now have the freedom to explore genres. Pop, rock, jazz, and even video game soundtracks are incorporated into lesson plans. This makes the piano accessible and exciting for a broader audience. This flexibility allows students to connect with the music they enjoy.

Ryan, demonstrating a tune in the style of Boogie.

ANZCA – Alternative Piano Lessons in Singapore

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ANZCA stands for Australian and New Zealand Cultural Arts .The ANZCA piano syllabus offers a modern to piano education, featuring a wider variety of musical genres in its repertoire. Unlike traditional syllabuses that focus heavily on classical music, ANZCA includes contemporary styles such as boogie, jazz, blues, and pop. This modern approach allows students to explore and engage with different types of music that are relevant and exciting, making lessons more enjoyable while still building essential piano skills. The variety ensures a well-rounded musical education that caters to various interests and strengths.

Kaitlyn demonstrating a tune in the style of Tango.

Holistic Learning Experience

Modern piano lessons often take a holistic approach, focusing not just on playing but also on other musical elements like ear training, rhythm, and music theory. Teachers encourage students to develop a well-rounded skill set that goes beyond simply playing notes on a page. This approach enables students to become more versatile musicians, capable of reading sheet music, playing by ear, and even composing their own music.

Kye Hsin demonstrating a tune from Encore! A syllabus we use for younger children.

A Balanced Approach to Examinations

While graded examinations like ABRSM or Trinity remain important for students seeking formal certification, they are no longer the sole focus of piano education. Many music schools now offer optional exam tracks, allowing students to choose whether they want to pursue formal exams or focus on personal enjoyment and creativity. This flexibility ensures that students can learn at their own pace, without the pressure of exams overshadowing their love for music.

Watch the outtakes to see just how much fun the children are having!

Conclusion

Modern piano lessons go beyond just classical music and exams. Our focus is on helping students develop a true love for the piano and enjoy their learning experience. Cultivating a passion for music is our primary goal, and exam preparation is entirely optional, allowing students the freedom to explore music at their own pace and in their own way.

Don’t take our word for it, take a Trial Lesson with us!

Contact us if you wish to find out more! 🙂

Sep 30 2024
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Kelvin Kew and Bing on the Djembe

Djembe Singapore Club at The Esplanade

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Djembe Singapore Club at the Esplanade

Oh snap. It is the Djembe Singapore Club at the Esplanade!

#mydurian #esplanadesg

We brought our little boy to The Esplanade to watch the Singapore Djembe Club perform with Iya Sako at the Outdoor Theater, and it was an unforgettable experience. Normally, our very active boy can’t sit still during shows, and we’ve often struggled to keep him engaged. But this time was different. The mesmerizing rhythms of the djembe drums completely captivated him, holding his attention in a way we hadn’t seen before. He was frozen in place, his eyes wide as he watched the drummers with absolute focus, enchanted by the powerful beats and vibrant energy of the performance.

The Djembe Man of Singapore

Kelvin Kew and the Singapore Djembe Club

Kelvin Kew is a passionate devotee of Djembe and West African drumming, making him a leading figure in Singapore’s drumming community. Since founding his drumming club in 2004, he has spent 20 years perfecting and promoting this art form. His deep connection to the late Grandmaster Mamady Keita and extensive knowledge of West African rhythms position him as a vital cultural link between Singapore and Africa. Kelvin’s dedication and expertise have made him the torchbearer of Djembe drumming in Singapore, inspiring many with his artistry.

Djembe Lessons in Singapore Schools

Mamady Keita Djembe

Like Kelvin and Djembe Singapore Club, Vinnie Classroom has actively promoted the Djembe in primary schools across Singapore. We’ve had the privilege of introducing students to this West African drum. When Djembe is unavailable, we share the love of percussion through Cajon.

Djembe Singapore

Teaching at the primary level means laying the foundation for rhythmic ensemble skills. Our role is to inspire young minds. By instilling a love for drumming, we help prepare children to potentially join Kelvin and his team in the future, continuing their musical journey.

Iya Sako – Guest artiste for the Crossing Borders Festival

Iya Sako at the Esplanade

Iya Sako’s incredible Djembe skills left us in awe during the show at The Esplanade. His mastery of complex rhythms and dynamic playing brought a raw energy to the performance, capturing the audience’s attention from start to finish. With precise control and deep passion, Iya showcased the rich tradition of West African drumming, blending technique and emotion effortlessly. His performance was not only a display of talent but a true celebration of the Djembe’s cultural significance, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

Other than Djembe…

Kenkeni Drum
Djembe Singapore Club at the Esplanade - The Sangban
Dundumba - African Bass drum at The Esplanade
  • Kenkeni
  • Sangban
  • Dundumba

Collectively known as the Dunun, these lesser-known African drums are seldom seen in Singapore and it was such an eye-opener! The first on the list is the Kenkeni drum. The Kenkeni drum is the smallest of the three traditional West African dunun drums, producing a high-pitched tone that serves as a rhythmic base in Djembe ensembles.

The Sangban drum, part of the traditional West African dunun family, produces a medium-pitched sound and plays a key role in establishing the rhythmic patterns that drive Djembe ensembles.

The Dundumba, or Dundunba, is the largest and lowest-pitched drum in the traditional West African dunun family. Known for its deep, resonant sound, the Dundumba sets the foundational pulse in Djembe ensembles, providing a powerful, steady beat that grounds the other drums and instruments. Its rhythms are often slow and heavy, giving the ensemble its driving force. Traditionally, it plays an important role in community gatherings, ceremonies, and dances, where its deep tones are meant to inspire strength and unity.

Djembe is for everyone!

Kelvin Kew and Bing on the Djembe

Bing stood out as the only female Djembe player of the night. She was captivating the audience with her blazing fast and intricate rhythms. Her exceptional skill and control over the Djembe were nothing short of mesmerizing! She effortlessly delivered complex beats with remarkable precision and speed. Each rhythm she played added energy and intensity to the performance, leaving the crowd in awe of her talent. Bing’s ability to push the limits of speed and complexity truly set her apart, making her a standout performer of the evening.

Conclusion

Djembe Singapore Club at the Esplanade

The Djembe has a unique power to bring people together, fostering unity and peace through its vibrant rhythms. Inspired by the efforts of the Djembe Singapore Club, Vinnie Classroom seeks to contribute to preserving this beautiful art form. We aim introduce its values of community and cultural appreciation to future generations. Ensuring that the spirit of Djembe thrives and continues to inspire harmony in our diverse society.

Don’t take our word for it, take a Trial Lesson with us!

Contact us if you wish to find out more! 🙂

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