At P.L.A.Y. we believe it essential in order to progress, develop and continue being motivated, one needs a strong sense of community. Within a community children can thrive and explore together the joys music has to offer. Within a group children can share their experiences and develop through them. They can socialise using their own music making, which is one of P.L.A.Y.‘s main aims. Therefore, what a better way to form a musical community, than music groups that go beyond the identity and the small geographical space of the children’s schools. We know how important it is for children to play together in groups, thus we invite them into our small chamber groups, and orchestras.
String Group (violin / viola / cello / d.bass)
These are groups mostly made up of children around the ages of 5 – 10 and the standard of playing ranges from complete beginners up to those who passed Grade 4. This is a very good setting for them to develop their instrumental confidence, even if they have only been learning their instruments.
Reception Recorder Group
The reception recorder group is for children aged 4 y.o. and above, where they will learn basic music principles (like rhythm and note reading) and apply it to a musical instrument. The class lasts 30 mins and costs £90 per term. There are usually 3-5 kids in each class. The aim of the class is to prepare children for their instrumental lessons (no matter which instrument they choose). At the same time, the group can potentially go on for much longer than the preparatory 1 year.
End of term concerts
The Musicianship and ensemble classes, which run allonside the instrumental music classes, further enhance the development of musical awareness and provide a wonderful social opportunity to make and share music together. We organise occasional group lessons in order to plant the seeds of the values and ethos required to every performing musician, and also to familiarise children with the idea of sharing their skills and abilities within a loving and supporting community (avoiding anxiety, panic, etc). Furthermore, students are paired in groups in order to work on chamber music works (such as duos, trios, quartets, etc) and get a chance to participate in our end-of-term concerts.