Whatever your age, taking up a musical instrument can be a rewarding and fun hobby, but how to get started?
How do you want to learn?
There are three possible ways of learning an instrument:
-
On your own with a tutor book or self-study course
-
In a group setting
-
With a private teacher.
Self-study options
Self-study can be an inexpensive way of learning an instrument, and there are many tutor books and online resources to help you get started.
Advantages:
-
You can study from the comfort of your own home at a speed to suit yourself.
-
It's cheaper than having private lessons.
Disadvantages:
-
You may develop bad habits which will not be corrected.
-
You will not have anyone to tell you how you are getting on.
Tips
-
If you have access to the internet, try to research what self-study materials are available online and check they are accessible with any access technology you use.
-
If you choose a DVD, bear in mind that the tutor may demonstrate things such as assembling or holding your instrument, posture and finger position without describing them fully, making it difficult to follow if you can't see.
-
Visit our page on learning to play by ear for details of accessible tutor books and audio courses.
Learning in a group
Many colleges or adult education centres offer courses in different instruments.
Advantages:
-
Learning in a group will be considerably cheaper than having private lessons.
-
It can be a great way of meeting others interested in music and sharing experiences.
-
You will know whether you are making progress.
Disadvantages:
-
Classes are often held in the evening which may make travel more difficult
-
In a group setting, the teacher will have less time to help you on a one to one basis. You may find that the other students learn by copying the teacher which you may find difficult.
-
Getting any print music into a format that you can read, and keeping up with reading, memorising and playing, whilst others read and play at the same time.
Tips:
-
Speak to the teacher before the start of the course, and let them know about your sight difficulties and how they might impact on your ability to copy what he or she is doing.
-
Ask if you can record all or part of the session so you have something to refer back to after the lesson.
-
Ask how you will be expected to learn, for example if there will be handouts. Ask if these are available in your preferred format, or if not, if they can be made available before the lesson.
-
visit our page on travel for advice about getting around more easily.
Private teacher
Learning with a private teacher can be a very rewarding experience and should be tailored to your needs, ambitions and learning style.
Advantages
-
You will hopefully benefit from one to one learning and your teacher's expertise.
-
Most teachers are quite flexible about scheduling lessons and will try to accommodate your preference for weekdays, evenings or weekends.
-
You have much more say over what you learn, for example type of music and amount of theory.
Disadvantages:
-
Private tuition from a qualified music teacher can be expensive.
-
It can take time to find the right teacher (good teachers are generally busy teachers), especially if you live in a remote area.
-
Some teachers may be uncertain about taking on a pupil with sight difficulties.
Tips:
-
Visit our page on Music awards and funding for possible sources of help with the cost of private music tuition.
-
The Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM) publish suggested rates for music teachers.
-
The Music Teachers website has some very helpful advice on choosing a music teacher.
-
Always speak to a prospective teacher on the phone and explain your sight difficulties. They may not know about Modified stave notation or Braille music, so if you use either of these, take time to explain how you acquire your music and what is available.
-
If you prefer to learn by ear, discuss this with your teacher. Not all teachers are comfortable playing or teaching by ear, but those who are may enjoy the musical opportunities this can bring. Some teachers will offer learning to play by ear as a specialism. MAS is always happy to speak to teachers to offer advice and support for teaching blind or partially sighted students.
Finding a private music teacher
There are several ways to find a teacher.
Searching online
We recommend that you start your search with the Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM) who maintain the largest directory of professional private music teachers. Their database can be searched by area and instrument. All teachers listed on the ISM directory are ISM members and have to maintain a professional and responsible approach to their work. Teachers are approved for inclusion after careful scrutiny of their qualifications, experience and achievements by their colleagues in the ISM.
The register has a key with various codes. For teachers who cater for people with physical disabilities, special educational needs or learning difficulties, the code is the Greek letter omega. Copies of this register can be found in your local library.
The Music teachers website has a larger database of music teachers. This is a free internet service for music teachers and accompanists with a searchable directory of music teachers. Unlike the ISM database, the service is open to anyone who wishes to register, so you may find more teachers fitting your search criteria, but they won't necessarily have the same level of professional qualifications and experience.
Other places to search
Many music teachers, especially those with established teaching practices, may not need to advertise, but you may find your local library, music shop or music venue have listings of local teachers.
Finally, there is a lot to be said for word of mouth and a personal recommendation.
Enjoy taking up music and best of luck!