What Instrument?
(Individual/Group/Paired Tuition open to Children and Adults)
Piano
Sarah Abdeihafeez , performing at the Laois School of Music Summer Concert at Portlaoise Youth Education Centre
The piano is a good place to start for formal instrumental training as the finger movements are easier than those for a stringed or woodwind instrument. Piano playing develops an understanding of chords and harmonies. A keyboard can be used as a starting point for practise purposes at home but over time, the difference in the weight and feel of the keys will become more evident.
Group Keyboard
A cost-effective introduction to Piano for a year or two, suitable for children age 6+.
Violin
The violin can take a long time to master and requires patience and commitment on parents behalf as well as the childs. Beginners violins are inexpensive and can be started at age 6/7 and will be upgraded in size as the child grows.
Cello
The cello is a beautiful instrument and can be started as young as age 6. Transport of the instrument can be an issue when you progress to a full-size cello – but the sound you’ll produce by then will make it worthwhile!
Thomas Duggan performing at the LSM and MGL Festival, March 2016
Guitar/Bass
The guitar demands a certain level of physical maturity from the player because of it’s size and shape. Our minimum age for starting guitar is 8.
It can take quite a while to acquire the skill of fingering strings – don’t expect instant results! Reading of music will go hand in hand with our lessons.
Recorder
The recorder is an ideal introduction to a woodwind instrument. Group recorder gives an excellent grounding for further wind instruments from age 6.
Flute
Breath control and technique are the most important parts of learning the Flute. Starter flutes are reasonable enough cost but will need to be upgraded after 2-3 years. Minimum starting age 9.
Clarinet/Saxophone
Both instruments require a great deal of physical maturity because of the technique involved in producing a sound. They can be expensive instruments to buy and reeds need constant replacement. Beautiful sound once mastered. Beginner age 9+
Drums
Most children will be ready for drums by the age of 9/10. Our drum tutor takes students through the process of reading drum music. A beginners drum kit can be purchased at a reasonable cost – second hand kits are also a good beginners option. Parents and other family members may need earplugs!!
Singing
Everyone has a voice – get some tips on how to make the most of yours! Group and Individual Lessons available from age 8/9.
Classes and Group Activities based in Laois School of Music
LSM Senior Ensemble
Youth Orchestra perform at the Christmas Concert 2015
For players age 12+ at a minimum of Grade 3 standard. Rehearsals every Tuesday from 5.30pm to 7pm. Open to Strings, Woodwind, Brass and Percussion. Director Vincent Hunt
Orpheus Orchestra
For Junior players who have been playing for a minimum of one year. Rehearsals every Tuesday from 5pm to 6.30pm. Currently open to Strings and Woodwind. Director John Davidson
Flute Choir
For flutes at a minimum standard of Grade 2. An ensemble designed to broaden the playing experience and repertoire of flautists. Rehearsals every Monday at 8.00pm. Tutor: Kim Melia.
Junior/Leaving Cert
For students who wish to take music as a Junior or Leaving Cert subject but who may not have the choice on their school curriculum. Classes on Wednesdays assigned according to school year. Phone the office for further details. Tutor: Andrea Saachi
Kindermusic
For children age 4 to 6, Kindermusic explores the basic rudiments of Music training – developing the listening ear through singing, movement, exploring rhythm patterns, using a variety of percussion instruments, all in a fun and educational way. Classes in various age groups on Wednesdays. Tutor: Kimberly Melia
Kindermusic Year 2
The next step for our younger, budding musicians on Monday evenings. This class is a pre-instrumental course for students who are aged 5+ and have already done a full year of Kindermusic. This course acts as an introduction to many musical instruments and different genres of music. It will include 4 modules incorporating Xylophone, Recorder, Singing and Ukulele. Tutor: Kimberly Melia
