Everything you should know about your child learning music.

Remember when you were a child... Music lessons were something to be endured rather than enjoyed. All those tedious scales and boring pieces to practise. Well, all that can be different now. Your child can love his or her lessons and truly enjoy learning music.

A good teacher is so important.

Your teacher is specially chosen for their warmth, enthusiasm and ability to relate to children. They are so committed to being the best they can, they give some of their holiday time to attend Forte teacher training seminars twice a year, to learn more. Not only that, but your classes are assessed regularly by skilled Forte instructors who work with your teacher to further improve their teaching. That's the commitment Forte teachers make to you!

Forte students enjoying the ensemble activities
in the classroom.

Music... a real confidence booster

One of the greatest gifts we can have as individuals is a good level of self confidence or self esteem. Performing for others, is one of the best ways to improve self esteem.

And, you know, in a recent client survey, parents commented that through learning music at Forte they had noticed significant improvements in their child's self esteem and confidence. Let's share some of their comments with you...

"(my child) was in need of confidence with interacting with peers at preschool. It was through her music that she came to gain this. Michelle started to play simple songs like "Twinkle Twinkle" and "Magic Socks" to her class on the preschool piano. This experience of doing something she loved which the other children thought was great has helped make Michelle a very confident little girl who can make friends happily and is now ready for school next year. Thank you."
Nicola Jenneke

"The depth and breadth of Michael's Forte experience has, we believe, greatly contributed to Michael's openness and enthusiasm towards many life experiences, including music. It's also taught him that he can achieve things he previously thought beyond him... we often say to him "Hey, remember White Caps" when he feels a goal is beyond him"
Kerry de Waal

So... what changes can I expect to notice?

In no time at all your child will be playing and enjoying all kinds of music. You'll have great sound recordings for your child to practise along with at home.

With the extra attention they will receive on developing listening skills, soon you'll notice your child will delight in working out songs they have heard.

You know, to many people, the language of music is a mystery but it need not be.

Forte courses are specially designed so your child will have a greater appreciation for and understanding of music. Some children even form their own CD listening library.

Music builds concentration.

These comments from parents say it all...

"...(my child) has only been learning for 6 months but I have noticed he is able to sit and concentrate for longer periods now"

AND...

"His behaviour has improved both at home and at preschool. His concentration is better and he's learning to read easily. Being able to master a song improves his self esteem which, of course affects everything else."

 

Concerts Concerts Concerts

From the beginning, your child will gain confidence by performing for his or her class mates. From here it's on to the slightly larger Chamber Concerts held each term.

Then there's the annual Forte Music Festival where all students are encouraged to perform and receive their Gold Medallion and Performers Certificate to celebrate the occasion - not to be missed! Practice is Fun at Forte

AND (of course)

"Practise Makes Perfect"

Music practice can be fun - what a big statement! Your child will have recordings to play along with at home, weekly home activity sheets and practise incentives making practice sessions more fun. You know, many parents have told us they can't keep their child away from the keyboard at home!

Stickers, Stamps and Music Awards

Little incentives for attending lessons and practising go a long way. Stickers, stamps and rewards are all part of the mix at Forte.

Is my child too young?

Ask any musician... being able to play music is one of the great joys in life. It is something your child can do for the rest of their life and it is best to start young. It is a widely researched fact that learning music from as

young as 3 or 4 does improve learning ability in general and will lead to music becoming an integral part of life for your child and your family.