Music
You’ve arrived at the right place for fun and interactive Music tuition. At tutor house we believe that education should be enjoyable and lively. The tutor house Music tutors are specialists in their field and have been tutoring for many years. Tutors identify weaker areas in students’ knowledge and aim to improve these areas by focusing on exam technique through the use of past papers and model answers.
The tutor house Music tutors are specialists in their field and have been tutoring for many years. Tutors identify weaker areas in students’ knowledge and aim to improve these areas by focusing on exam technique through the use of past papers and model answers. Our music tutors are highly experienced in their field; they have been tutoring the GCSE and A-Level syllabus for many years. Our instrumental teachers understand what it takes to be a musician, as well as the tips on how to pass all grades from 1-8. We’re based mainly in Fulham, Kensington and the rest of South West London, but we do cater further out too.
A common fallacy is that music is for those who are born with it, in reality music is a skill, and, like any skill, it can be taught and learnt. Here at tutor house we consider it our responsibility to teach and enliven a passion for music. Music is unlike academic subjects in many respects, and as with the all the arts, it connects people, and inspires people. Another myth is that there it is impossible to get a job in the arts. This again isn’t true, whether it’s art, music, or even dance, we live in a time and country where culture is celebrated, and if you have a real passion there’s as much scope for a career as a dancer or musician as there is for an engineer or an accountant. Arts are at the forefront and we want to help put people there.
There are also academic aspects to the arts, as the technical side is very complex. Often mathematical or philosophical backgrounds really help to get to grips with the higher end of the subjects. Universities prefer students with a subject or two in the arts, as it’s an indication of a more rounded individual. Whether you’re looking to learn an instrument, take your A-levels or your GCSE’s, tutor house is here to help along the way. We also run summer, Easter and Christmas revision classes in the lead up to January and summer exams, as well as intensive courses for instrumentalists. We are also putting on master-classes throughout south west London over the coming months.
Key content
A-Level Outline
Students will be required to develop performance skills (solo and/or ensemble), compose music and learn about harmony (the basics at AS and stylistic studies at A2). They will build up their aural and analytical skills by studying selections from an anthology and wider listening.
The A-level is excellent preparation for higher education courses in music, but is equally valuable for non-specialists as a second or third area of study. The AS units alone can offer a broad and satisfying experience for those who want to conclude their musical studies at this point.
We have listened to the argument that marking performances entirely from recordings does not always allow students’ commitment and communication skills to be recognised fully. In this new specification, teachers will initially mark performances. Work will then be externally moderated. This is where our tuition is really helps students as we teach them on a deep level as opposed to just the syllabus they’ll study in class.
GCSE Outline
It’s currently a turbulent time to be taking GCSE’s, and with reforms likely in near future, we can help stay ahead of the ever changing curve. Students will no doubt struggle with a change in syllabus or style of marking, that’s where tutor house is most useful. As our tutors observe a range of syllabuses they know how to teach the core information as opposed to just answering the answers on a paper, and not truly understanding the subject. As well as this, they know about the differences between each examination board and can help get the most out of your GCSE’s, at a time when others may not.
Instrumental Outline
There are two directions to go with instrumental learning. Going through grades, or doing pieces that the student enjoys. Both have pros and cons and both, and there is no particular right way. Our tutors will guide you through your GCSE options.
Graded
Pros:
Grades give a good sense of achievement, and an empirical marker to objectively see your current ability level.
UCAS tariff points for achieving past grade 6, as well as recognition from employers and universities.
Cons:
Slower progress, as there is less passion for the pieces.
Can drain some of the enjoyment from playing due to the focus on exams.
Non-Graded
Pros:
Practicing is less of a chore, as the music being practiced is more enjoyable to the student.
Helps to develop a love for the instrument.
Engaging with music more leads to much faster development.
Cross over to grades when at a high enough level, a faster way to get to high grades.
Cons:
Less sense of current ability level.