FAQs for parents and students

Q: How much do lessons cost?
A: The charges for lessons are not determined by Gloucestershire Music but by the schools.  There is no standard charge, fees vary from school to school.  Bursaries may be available towards the cost of school based tuition and as well as free instrument hire. To qualify you must receive lessons from us, and be in receipt of any one of the following:

• Income Support
• Income Based Job seeker's Allowance
• Child Tax Credit (below an annual income that is reviewed each year)

Q: How many lessons are there a year? 
A: We guarantee to provide thirty lessons per year.  We strongly recommend that you complete a term of tuition.  If you do decide not to continue, please ensure you give the school adequate notice (six weeks) so we may organise changes to teachers timetables. 

Q: What if lessons are missed?
A: Lessons missed by the teacher will be made up. Lessons missed by the pupil will not normally be made up. Lessons missed because of exams, trips, inset etc. will be made up whenever possible, but are not guaranteed.   

Q: What are the extra costs?
A: Music, exam fees and replacements such as reeds, strings etc.   

Q: What about exams?
A: Most teachers like to enter pupils for exams, but it’s not obligatory.  For younger musicians, we provide a free in-house award system to encourage learning and progress in the first years of playing.  Many teachers enter students for a variety of exams organised by national bodies including Trinity Guildhall, London Board, Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, Rock School. Please speak to your child's teacher to find out more.
 
Q: What about orchestras?
A: Group playing is vital for a player’s development. We have groups ranging from beginner to pre-university standard. We also have groups for adults and adult beginners. Visit our our groups or our centres page for full details