About the classes
Beginner
A new class suitable for 4-6 year olds starting their musical journey.
Rhythm
Children start classes by singing and clapping the Keybra song, which helps focus their minds and start to feel the beat of the music.
Theory
Marching and jumping games help children learn and remember basic note values. Further games are introduced to help consolidate these note values.
The large keyboard is used to familiarise children with the layout of the keyboard and have fun finding the notes they need to play.
Peforming
Children are taught basic rhythm skills through well-known songs, and a sense of timing is encouraged.
At this stage children are familiarising themselves with the layout of the keyboard and will play with one or two fingers. By the end of this stage children are encouraged to use all 5 fingers.
Intermediate
Suitable for ages 7+ where new pupils are welcomed with tailored materials to join existing learners.
Rhythm
Movement is introduced, whilst clapping and singing, to engage both sides of the brain, ready for co-ordinating 2 hands when playing the keyboard.
Theory
Games and the large keyboard continue to feature, helping children to learn the location of notes and explore more complex rhythms.
Performing
More complex popular songs are introduced with a focus on following a fingering pattern. Previous melodies are revisited whilst basic accompaniment is introduced to encourage the start of co-ordinating 2 hands together. Left hand muscles are strengthened by playing basic melodies in this hand.
More time is spent on improving timing and listening to each other to achieve synchronised group playing.
Advanced
Suitable for ages 7+ where new pupils are welcomed with tailored materials to join existing learners.
Rhythm
More advanced rhythms are clapped whilst singing, to fully embrace the co-ordination challenges that arise when playing the keyboard.
Theory
Children are introduced to reading traditional music, through interactive games. Children will start to recognise more complex musical symbols by writing and drawing.
Performing
Complex melodies are introduced and children become more confident using both hands to play melodies and accompaniments.
Focus is placed on developing correct hand technique with curved fingers and a straight wrist.
Listening skills are more pronounced, facilitating improved group performances, and enabling children to play along with complex rhythmical accompaniment or backing tracks.