Skip to main content
search
All Posts By

Vinnie Mah

Sep 20 2024
Love0
bass guitar music lessons singapore

Try the Bass Guitar if you are new to music lessons!

By Music Articles No Comments

Try the Bass Guitar if you are new to music lessons!

When it comes to choosing a first instrument for someone new to music lessons, bass guitar is often not in the picture. Many beginners are drawn to the guitar, piano, or drums. The bass guitar is often overlooked, despite being one of the most versatile and rewarding instruments to start with. Here are 3 compelling reasons why learning the bass guitar could be the perfect entry point into the world of music.

  1. It is Simpler

  2. It is Essential

  3. It is Cool

bass lessons for kids singapore

It is Simpler

Compared to a six-string guitar, the bass guitar usually has only four strings (though five- and six-string basses do exist). The fewer strings make it less intimidating for beginners. Additionally, bass players don’t typically need to worry about playing complex chords, which can be challenging for those new to music. Instead, they focus on single notes and scales. This allows beginners to build a strong foundation in rhythm, timing, and finger strength before tackling more intricate musical concepts.

Why it’s great for beginners: The bass has a gentler learning curve compared to the guitar, allowing new players to develop their skills more gradually and enjoy success early on.

bass lesson for teenagers singapore

It is Essential

The bass guitar is the backbone of many musical genres, from rock and pop to jazz, funk, and reggae. Its primary role is to provide the harmonic foundation and rhythm, bridging the gap between the drums and the other instruments. When you play the bass, you become the driving force that holds a song together. This unique role gives bass players a deep understanding of both melody and rhythm from the start, making it an excellent instrument for developing musical intuition.

Why it’s great for beginners: Learning the bass guitar teaches students to understand the structure of songs and how different instruments work together, offering insight into the mechanics of music that is harder to grasp on other instruments.

bass lessons for boys singapore

It is Cool

Being a bass player is undeniably cool because you get to be the heartbeat of the band, the one laying down the groove that everyone else builds on. While the guitarists might take the flashy solos, it’s the bass that keeps the whole song moving, driving the rhythm and locking in with the drums to create that irresistible pulse that gets people dancing. You’re both the unsung hero and the secret weapon, commanding respect for your ability to control the vibe of any track. Plus, there’s something effortlessly smooth about laying down a funky bassline that everyone feels but may not even notice.

Why it’s great for beginners: Who don’t like to be a cool cat anyway? The bassist of the band has the undeniable cool factor that can’t be ignored. They are also never perceived as flashy like the guitarist or studious like a pianist. 😅

bass lessons for girls singapore

Conclusion: The Unsung Hero of Instruments

While often underrated, the bass guitar is a fantastic first instrument that offers beginners a practical and rewarding musical experience. Its simplicity, combined with its central role in virtually every musical genre, makes it a powerful tool for developing foundational skills that will carry over into any musical journey. Plus, the unique opportunity to play with others early on is a huge bonus.

If you’re looking for an instrument that offers rhythm, groove, and plenty of room for growth, the bass guitar might just be the best place to start.

Check out our Bass Teacher, Sean!

Sean Chua Bassist Teacher Singapore

Sean – Bass Teacher

Sean is the cool cat in our studio (other than our house cats). Knowledgeable, gentle and friendly! He has over 20 years of experience on the bass guitar and is ready to help you embark on your rumbling bass journey!

Join us for a Trial Lesson  now!

Contact us if you wish to find out more! 🙂

Sep 18 2024
Love0
music is better than everything

Why Music Lessons Are the Ideal Enrichment Program for Children (5 Key Benefits)

By Music Articles No Comments

Why Music Lessons Are the Ideal Enrichment Program for Children (5 Key Benefits)

music is better than everythingAs music teachers, we find it important to share why music lessons are the ideal enrichment program for children. In today’s world, parents are eager to enroll their children in extracurricular activities that enhance their personal development, foster creativity, and equip them with essential life skills. Among the vast array of options—ranging from martial arts and coding to chess and baking—music lessons stand out as a uniquely enriching experience that offers unparalleled benefits. Here are five reasons why music lessons provide a superior foundation for a child’s growth compared to other popular enrichment programs.

1. Enhanced Cognitive Development

While coding, chess, and other logical activities do stimulate a child’s brain, music lessons provide a comprehensive boost to cognitive development that surpasses these alternatives. Learning an instrument involves reading sheet music, coordinating finger movements, keeping time, and listening intently—simultaneously.

This multi-sensory involvement enhances brain functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving. Research has shown that music lessons help improve mathematical and linguistic abilities, making music a powerful catalyst for overall academic success.

Why it’s superior: Unlike chess or coding, which focus primarily on logical and strategic thinking, music lessons engage both hemispheres of the brain, promoting well-rounded intellectual growth.

2. Emotional Expression and Creativity

While baking or martial arts can teach discipline and creativity within specific contexts, music uniquely allows for deep emotional expression. Whether playing the piano, strumming a guitar, or singing, children learn to channel their emotions through music, developing emotional intelligence and resilience. Music serves as a therapeutic outlet, helping children process feelings and navigate life’s ups and downs.

Why it’s superior: Music nurtures both creative expression and emotional release, providing an emotional outlet that coding or chess cannot match. It taps into personal expression in a way that is deeply enriching and fulfilling.

3. Improved Social Skills and Teamwork

Group music lessons, band practice, or orchestra participation teach children how to work harmoniously with others. In these settings, children must listen to each other, synchronize their playing, and adjust their timing to create a cohesive performance. These skills foster cooperation, patience, and empathy, laying the groundwork for strong interpersonal relationships.

Why it’s superior: While martial arts and team sports develop collaboration and respect, music teaches a unique form of teamwork—one that combines listening, adaptation, and collective creativity. Music students gain the ability to work closely with others while still maintaining individual expression.

4. Discipline and Perseverance

Like martial arts, music lessons instill a sense of discipline and perseverance. Mastering an instrument requires hours of practice, dedication, and persistence. Children learn the value of consistent effort and hard work, gaining the confidence to overcome challenges and celebrate small victories along the way. The sense of accomplishment they feel after learning a new song or perfecting a performance is deeply gratifying.

Why it’s superior: While martial arts emphasize discipline in terms of physical training, music lessons demand both mental and emotional discipline. The continuous refinement of musical skills promotes a unique form of perseverance that crosses over into many aspects of life, including academics and personal growth.

5. Cultural Awareness and Appreciation

Music lessons provide an introduction to the rich world of cultural history. Children exposed to different genres, composers, and instruments develop a deep appreciation for cultural diversity. Whether it’s learning classical piano, exploring jazz, or diving into folk music from around the world, music lessons offer a gateway to understanding and appreciating the global heritage of sound.

Why it’s superior: Coding and chess, while beneficial in their own right, lack the profound connection to culture and history that music embodies. Music lessons not only teach technical skills but also foster an awareness of the diverse traditions and stories that have shaped human history.

Conclusion

While activities like martial arts, coding, chess, and baking each offer unique benefits, music lessons encompass a more holistic development of the child’s intellectual, emotional, and social faculties. With its unmatched capacity to enhance cognitive skills, provide emotional expression, foster teamwork, instill discipline, and cultivate cultural awareness, music lessons stand out as the superior enrichment program for children.

If you’re looking for an activity that will not only engage your child’s mind but also nourish their heart and soul, music is the perfect choice.

Don’t take our word for it, take a Trial Lesson with us!

Contact us if you wish to find out more! 🙂

Sep 17 2024
Love0

Pros and Cons of Learning Guitar, Piano, and Drums.

By Music Articles No Comments

Pros and Cons of Learning Guitar, Piano, and Drums

The pros and cons of learning guitar, piano, and drums have always been discussed here at Vinnie Classroom. Both adults and children are often at a loss about which instrument they should embark on their journey. Learning a musical instrument can be incredibly rewarding, but every instrument comes with its own unique set of challenges. As the end of year holiday is fast approaching, we thought it would be a good idea to share our opinion on this. In this article, we’ll explore three pros and three cons of learning the guitar, piano, and drums, with a special highlight on how Vinnie Classroom can enhance your learning experience.

Guitar

 
Pros:
  1. Portable and Convenient
    Guitars are easy to carry around, allowing you to practice almost anywhere. Whether you’re at home, in the park, or traveling, your guitar can be by your side.
  2. Versatile Across Genres
    The guitar is incredibly versatile and is featured in a wide range of genres, from classical to rock, jazz to pop. This makes it an instrument you can use to express a broad range of musical styles.
  3. Personalized Learning Experience at Vinnie Classroom
    At Vinnie Classroom, we emphasize tailored lessons based on each student’s individual goals. Whether you’re into acoustic, electric, or classical guitar, our instructors will adapt to your personal interests and learning style, helping you progress faster.
Cons:
  1. Steep Learning Curve
    While it’s easy to pick up basic chords on the guitar, advancing to more complex techniques, like fingerpicking or lead guitar, requires patience and commitment.
  2. Coordination Challenges
    Playing the guitar requires the simultaneous use of both hands in different ways. Mastering this coordination can take some time.
  3. Complex Chords
    Certain chords, especially barre chords, can be difficult for beginners. They require strength and precision, which can be frustrating at first.

Piano

Pros:
  1. Structured Learning Path
    The piano offers a clear progression of skills, from simple scales to advanced pieces. This structured approach makes it easier for students to see progress and stay motivated.
  2. Wide Range of Musical Expression
    With 88 keys and the ability to play both melody and harmony simultaneously, the piano offers immense musical possibilities. It’s great for those who want to compose or explore complex musical pieces.
  3. Top-Notch Learning Environment at Vinnie Classroom
    Our piano lessons at Vinnie Classroom are designed to nurture both beginners and advanced players. With our state-of-the-art pianos and well-equipped teaching studios, students will always have access to high-quality instruments for practice.
Cons:
  1. Expensive and Large
    Pianos can be costly and take up significant space. This may limit practice options at home for some students.
  2. Challenging Music Theory
    Understanding and applying music theory on the piano, such as chord progressions and sight-reading, can be overwhelming for beginners, especially those new to formal music education.
  3. Challenging to Master Both Hands
    Like the guitar, piano players must coordinate both hands, with one often playing chords and the other playing melody. This requires significant focus and practice.

Drums

Pros:
  1. Great for Physical Coordination
    Drumming is one of the best instruments for improving overall coordination, as it requires the use of all four limbs independently. It’s an excellent workout for both your body and mind.
  2. Stress Relief and Fun
    Drumming is a great outlet for releasing energy and relieving stress. Many students find the physicality of drums to be a fun and energizing way to express themselves musically.
  3. Variety of Drum Sizes at Vinnie Classroom
    Vinnie Classroom offers a range of drum sets tailored to different ages and body types, from compact kits for younger students to full-sized sets for advanced players. This ensures that every student can learn comfortably and progress without limitation.
Cons:
  1. Space and Noise Considerations
    Drums are loud and take up a lot of space. Practicing at home can be challenging unless you have a soundproof room or an electronic drum set.
  2. Physical Demands
    Drumming can be physically demanding, especially for beginners who aren’t used to the stamina required for longer sessions.
  3. Hard to Play Melodic Parts
    Drums are primarily rhythm-based, meaning they don’t play melodies in the traditional sense. This can limit a drummer’s ability to contribute to the harmonic aspects of a song.
Rock band lessons Singapore
Kids band Singapore
Piano Lessons Singapore
Drum Lessons for kids
Drum Lessons Singapore
guitar lesson singapore
electric guitar lesson
Music lessons Singapore music school
music lessons singapore music school
Vinnie Classroom Reunion 5
music class for kids

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in guitar, piano, or drums, each instrument offers a unique journey with its own pros and cons. At Vinnie Classroom, we are committed to helping you overcome these challenges and unlock your musical potential, regardless of the instrument you choose. With our tailored lessons, experienced instructors, and supportive learning environment, we make the process enjoyable and rewarding.

Don’t take our word for it, take a Trial Lesson with us!

Contact us if you wish to find out more! 🙂

Sep 13 2024
Love0
guitar lesson singapore

Life of a Music Teacher

By Music Articles No Comments

A Day in the Life of a Music Teacher: The Unseen Effort Behind the Notes

guitar lesson singaporeThe life of a music teacher, while rewarding, is often misunderstood and undervalued. Most people imagine a teacher’s day revolving around the hours spent in lessons with students, but the reality is that much of the critical work happens behind the scenes. From lesson preparation to mastering the music pieces themselves, the day of a music teacher is packed with hours of effort dedicated to ensuring that each student has a productive and enriching learning experience.

father and son practicing guitar togetherLesson Preparation: Laying the Foundation

Before any student steps into the lesson room, significant time is spent preparing. Each lesson must be tailored to the individual student’s needs, skill level, and goals. Teachers often design customized exercises, handpick repertoire, and create practice schedules to address specific areas of development. This means anticipating where a student may struggle and preparing strategies to tackle those challenges effectively.

Lesson preparation is not just about organizing material. It’s about staying one step ahead of the student, ensuring that when the time comes to teach, the lesson flows smoothly, and students leave feeling confident about their progress. This invisible groundwork is crucial to ensuring that every moment in the lesson is meaningful.

Kalimba Corporate Workshop

Mastery of Music: Learning to Teach Through Demonstration

One of the most underestimated aspects of a music teacher’s day is the time spent mastering the pieces they plan to teach. It’s not enough to know a piece; teachers must digest it in a way that allows them to break it down and explain its complexities to students of varying levels. This involves hours of practice—deconstructing sections, experimenting with different fingerings, bowings, or breathing techniques to find the best method of instruction.

Demonstration is a powerful teaching tool, and a teacher’s ability to perform a piece confidently instills confidence in their students. However, the hours spent perfecting these pieces are often unseen. The teacher not only practices for their own proficiency but also for the benefit of their students’ learning.

Rockschool Examination SingaporeResearch and Syllabus Development: Staying Current

A dedicated music teacher must constantly stay informed about the latest pedagogical trends, exam syllabuses, and teaching methodologies. Whether the focus is classical, jazz, or contemporary music, teachers spend time researching syllabus requirements to ensure that their students are prepared for exams, competitions, and performances. This involves analyzing syllabi from examination boards, assessing which pieces align with a student’s strengths, and ensuring that every learning goal is met.

Keeping up with these changes is time-consuming but essential. It ensures that students not only meet the technical requirements but are also exposed to a rich and varied repertoire that broadens their musical understanding.

drumset and drum lessons for kidsCreativity in Teaching: Crafting Unique Methods for Effective Learning

No two students are alike, and effective teaching requires creativity and flexibility. A significant part of a music teacher’s job is inventing new ways to engage students and making learning enjoyable. Whether it’s developing games to teach rhythm, creating analogies to explain music theory, or using technology to enhance understanding, teachers are constantly adapting their methods to meet the needs of their students.

This creative effort, though often unnoticed, is central to keeping students motivated and excited about their musical journey. It requires innovation, adaptability, and a deep understanding of both music and the learning process.

VCRX Vinnie Classroom RecitalThe Unseen Labor: Long Hours and Dedication

Despite the passion and dedication music teachers pour into their work, much of what they do goes unseen. The time spent preparing lessons, practicing music, researching, and developing creative teaching methods often happens outside of lesson hours. The reality is that for every hour spent teaching, many more are spent working behind the scenes.

Unfortunately, this unseen labor is often underappreciated, and music teachers are frequently underpaid for the level of effort and expertise they provide. The long hours, coupled with the emotional investment in each student’s growth, make music teaching both a demanding and fulfilling profession. Yet, it is one that requires not only skill but also a deep love for the art of teaching and music.

Conclusion

A music teacher’s day is far more complex than it appears on the surface. While the hours spent in lessons are what most people see, the real work lies in the preparation, practice, research, and creativity that happen behind the scenes. The dedication to each student’s success is profound, and though often undervalued, music teachers continue to inspire and nurture the next generation of musicians with unwavering commitment.

Music teaching is a labor of love, and its value extends far beyond the classroom.

zee huang

Zee – Piano Teacher

Vinnie Mah

Vinnie – Guitar Teacher

leonard howe

Leonard – Piano Teacher

victor mah

Victor – Drum Teacher

Sean Chua Bassist Teacher Singapore

Sean – Bass Teacher

Minghui Guitar Teacher

Minghui – Guitar Teacher

Don’t take our word for it, take a Trial Lesson with us!

Contact us if you wish to find out more! 🙂

Sep 11 2024
Love0
Kalimba in Primary School

Kalimba for 2025!

By Music Articles, Newsletter No Comments

Kalimba in Primary SchoolWhy the Kalimba is the Best Instrument for Primary School Students in 2025

As we look ahead to 2025, the Kalimba is emerging as the perfect musical instrument for primary school students. Having conducted successful Kalimba programs in schools like Cedar Primary School, Ai Tong School, and Northland Primary School, we’ve seen firsthand the numerous benefits this unique instrument brings to young learners. Its simplicity, portability, and educational value make it an ideal choice for music education in the coming year.

Kalimba Solfege SystemThe Power of the Solfege System

One of the key reasons the Kalimba stands out is its use of the solfege system, which is central to understanding melody and pitch. Unlike many other instruments, the Kalimba’s layout corresponds directly with the solfege syllables (do, re, mi, etc.), making it incredibly intuitive for young students. This direct association between the instrument’s keys and musical notes helps students develop a stronger grasp of musical concepts early on. As they learn to play the Kalimba, they’re also internalizing the foundations of music theory in a way that feels natural and engaging.

students from Vinnie Classroom playing KalimbaPortability and Ease of Use

Another reason why the Kalimba is perfect for primary school students is its size and weight. The Kalimba is small, lightweight, and easy to carry, allowing students to take their music wherever they go. Whether it’s in the classroom, during recess, or even at home, students can easily transport their Kalimbas and practice or perform whenever inspiration strikes. This portability not only makes the Kalimba convenient but also encourages more frequent practice, leading to quicker skill development.

Kalimba in Action

Kalimba Programs for Secondary School Students

Our experience doesn’t stop at the primary level. We’ve also brought the Kalimba to secondary schools such as CHIJ St Joseph Convent, Hougang Secondary School, Punggol Secondary School, Kent Ridge Secondary School, and soon, Naval Base Secondary School. For these more advanced students, the Kalimba offers even greater possibilities. Music can be arranged in multiple parts, allowing students to explore harmonies and more complex compositions. This not only makes the songs sound more appealing but also provides a satisfying challenge for students ready to deepen their musical understanding.

Boy from Vinnie Classroom playing KalimbaLooking Ahead: The Rise of the Kalimba

In recent years, instruments like the Ukulele, Guitar, and digital tools like GarageBand have dominated school music programs. However, 2025 is set to be the year of the Kalimba. Its accessibility, educational value, and versatility position it as the next big thing in music education. Educators who plan ahead and embrace this shift will be at the forefront of a new wave in music learning, offering their students a unique and enriching experience.

custom KalimbaEasy Access to Quality Kalimbas

To make this transition even smoother, we offer our in-house Kalimbas with a special engraving service, allowing students to personalize their instruments. These Kalimbas are available at an affordable price, making it easy for schools to equip their students with high-quality instruments. Teachers interested in bringing the Kalimba to their classrooms can contact us for a catalog with all the details they need.

Don’t Miss the Kalimba Wave

The opportunity to ride this Kalimba wave is not to be missed. Our special offer on custom Kalimbas is only available for a limited time, so now is the perfect time to introduce this fantastic instrument to your students. With the Kalimba set to become the most popular instrument in school music programs for 2025, there’s no better time to act. Join us in leading the next generation of musicians and ensure your students have the best tools to succeed.

Contact us if you wish to find out more! 🙂

Jun 25 2024
Love0
VCRX Vinnie Classroom Recital

VCRX – Vinnie Classroom 10th Anniversary

By Events 2 Comments

VCRX – Vinnie Classroom 10th Anniversary Recital

VCRX Vinnie Classroom Recital

Vinnie Classroom 10th Anniversary Recital – VCRX

VCRX – Vinnie Classroom 10th Anniversary Recital
Celebrating a Decade of Musical Excellence: Reflections on Our 10th Anniversary Recital

As we gather to celebrate Vinnie Classroom 10th anniversary of our music school (VCRX), we are filled with immense pride and gratitude during this recital. Our recent recital was not only a showcase of our students’ incredible talent but also a testament to the journey we have undertaken together. This milestone is a significant one, marked by perseverance, dedication, and the unwavering support of our community.

Vinnie Classroom Music Lessons

Students performing at Vinnie Classroom Recital

A Journey of Perseverance

Our music school’s inception was fraught with challenges. Establishing a place where aspiring musicians could nurture their talents required hard work and determination. From finding the right instructors to creating a curriculum that balanced technical skill with artistic expression, every step was a learning experience. We faced skepticism and financial hurdles, but our belief in the transformative power of music kept us going.

Overcoming the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic was an unprecedented challenge that tested our resilience. As the world went into lockdown, we had to swiftly adapt to ensure our students’ musical journeys continued uninterrupted. Transitioning to online lessons was no small feat; it required upgrading our technology, training our instructors, and reimagining our teaching methods. We encountered obstacles, from technical difficulties to maintaining student engagement, but our community’s spirit never wavered.

During this period, the support from parents and adult students was invaluable. Parents trusted us with their children’s musical education, adapting to new routines and ensuring their children remained committed to their practice. Adult students, too, embraced the new normal, finding solace and joy in their lessons amidst the uncertainty. Their dedication reinforced our belief in the importance of music as a source of comfort and resilience.

Post-Pandemic Growth

As we transitioned out of the pandemic, we faced new challenges. Returning to in-person lessons required careful planning and adherence to safety protocols. However, this period also presented opportunities for growth. We integrated the best aspects of our online teaching into our in-person classes, offering a hybrid model that catered to diverse needs. This adaptability allowed us to expand our reach and accommodate students from different geographical locations.

Students of Vinnie Classroom putting their best foot forward

Students of Vinnie Classroom putting their best foot forward

A Heartfelt Thank You

Our 10th anniversary recital was a resounding success, a celebration of not just our students’ progress but also the collective effort of our entire community. We owe this achievement to the unwavering support of parents who entrusted us with their children’s musical education. Your belief in our vision has been the cornerstone of our success. To our adult students, your enthusiasm and commitment have been truly inspiring. Your passion for learning and growth has enriched our school in countless ways.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. We remain committed to providing high-quality music education that nurtures talent and fosters a lifelong love of music. Our journey has been shaped by the challenges we have faced and the community that has supported us. Together, we will continue to create beautiful music and inspiring stories.

Thank you for being a part of our musical journey. Here’s to many more years of harmony, growth, and success! Empowering the next generation through music!

With heartfelt gratitude,

Vinnie, Zee, Leonard and Victor
Vinnie Classroom

Download Beautiful Photos By Florian Here
Download link will expire on 30th June 2024
Nov 30 2022
Love0
Vinnie Classroom Reunion 5

Vinnie Classroom Reunion 5

By Events No Comments

Vinnie Classroom Reunion 5

Vinnie Classroom Reunion 5

Perhaps the best reunion of the year! The Vinnie Classroom Reunion!

Vinnie Classroom Reunion was perhaps the main highlight for many of us! It was an event that was shelved for 2 years due to the pandemic and its regulations. Most of us ended up forgetting what it is like to be on stage, to perform with others, and the point of learning an instrument altogether. But that 2 years of darkness are over and we are so glad we did this.

VC recital

Why Reunion?

If you are a long-time student of Vinnie Classroom, you would have noticed the change in our recital name. Coined by our dear Ms. Zee, we changed the title from Vinnie Classroom Recital to Vinnie Classroom Reunion. The new word couldn’t be any more appropriate, the event is literally a reunion of everyone from VC. We get together to mingle, feast(on light snacks), perform, and cheer each other on! While it does move away from our big and formal show, this new format gives us the warm and fuzzy feeling of a big family coming together!

The Quiet Set

VCR 2022Piano Recital Singapore

Piano Lessons SingaporeGuitar Ukulele Singapore

We had a very different recital format as compared to our previous attempts. There are no dim lights, no colorful moving lights and the room isn’t black! Instead, the stage was presented with this clean and white look, representing a fresh start like a blank canvas. The performers were also separated into 2 different sets, the Quiet and the Noisy. For the Quiet set, the audience was treated to a collection of beautiful performances from our Piano, Acoustic Guitar, and Ukulele students.

The key advantage to this format of performance is to allow our students to have the freedom to choose a song that represents them the best. They can go for a technical piece to showcase their current abilities or a song that made them fall in love with their instrument. Compared to performing in a band, performing solo/duet means they can express themselves better!

The Noisy Set

Drum Lessons for kidsDrum Lessons Singapore

Drums Sg

As the name implies, the Noisy Set definitely changed the atmosphere with all the loud thumping! Drummers provide the heartbeat to a song, setting the grooves and tempo right! Our new recital format allows our drummers to shine by choosing songs that best allow them to demonstrate their level of musicianship.

Band life forever

Rock band Singapore

Students performing Sweet Child O Mine

Although it is a great idea to showcase our student’s musicianship, nothing beats the fun of jamming in a band! Solo performances focus on technicality and individuality, lacking the option for students to practice teamwork and coordination skills. So why only 2 bands for this recital? Well, long story short, COVID. The ever changing rules and regulations made it impossible for us to plan our recital and to coordinate students for rehearsals. It wasn’t until mid 2022 that we were given the green light to run live performances, but by then it was already too late. Students are budding musicians, not seasoned performers. They need a good amount of preparation time to get themselves ready before they can hit the stage.

Kids band Singapore

Students performing Bad Guy

If you have noticed, there are no singers on stage! And yet, the kids band performed Bad Guy – Billie Eillish and the adult band performed Sweet Child O Mine – Guns and Roses. 

The secret is… AUDIO ENGINEERING! 

Students were actually performing to a backing track that contained parts like vocal, sound effects and misceallaneous percussion tracks. Sent directly to their In-Ear-Monitor (and not to the audience) includes the metronome and various guides to keep them oriented throughout the performance. This type of performance requires musicians to be extremely sensitive to the tempo with no room for errors. The tempo sensitive nature allows syncronized background video. Enhancing their performance and bringing the quality of the show to the next level.

Vinnie Classroom is planning on offer Rockschool’s Music Production . Contact us if you are interested!

Any videos?

Yes! But they are still baking in the oven. Check back often!

Plans for next recital?

With Covid-19 restrictions out of the way and our first recital in 2 years done and dusted, we feel the confidence on embarking onto the next one. The next recital will definitely feature more bands, more impressive solos, more jaw dropping duets and most importantly another round of happy reunion! Join us for lessons today and be part of our next reunion!

Jun 02 2022
Love0
June Holiday Music Camp 2022

June Holiday Music Camp 2022

By Events No Comments

June Holiday Music Camp 2022

June Holiday Music Camp 2022

Vinnie Classroom’s June Holiday Music Camp 2022 is finally here. Covid-19 restrictions have forbidden us from running our very fun and exciting music workshops for the last 2 years. Join us in this highly anticipated music program!

Music Camp Overview

  • Round robin system, each participant will go through 4 stations in total. Each station runs for 30mins.
  • Each group has a maximum group size of 3 participants. Total 12 participants per session.
  • Date: 21st, 23rd or 24th June. Participants can sign up for any of the dates as long as there are available slots.
  • Time: 10am to 12pm.
  • Program Fee: $59 (No gst or admin fee)

Overall Expectations

  • Participants will get to experience the instruments they have always wanted to learn!
  • Our program’s lesson plan is structured around MOE’s music lesson guidelines. This helps them to feel more confident with their music lessons in school.
  • Making new friends is a must in this program! Participants will get to interact with students from various schools and levels, enhancing their social-emotional skills.

How to Sign-Up for this June Holiday Music Camp?

Message us on Facebook Messenger or drop a text on WhatsApp right now! Slots are limited so do hurry 🙂

Facebook Messenger ChatFacebook Messenger ChatWhatsApp Chat
Feb 27 2022
Love0
Random Music Note Generator

Random music note generator is great for ear training

By Music Articles One Comment

Random music note generator is the best!

Random Music Note Generator

As music teachers in Singapore conducting piano lessons, guitar lessons, etc. We often wish for a random music note generator that can help us develop our students’s listening abilities. This skill is crucial in graded music examinations such as ABRSM, ANZCA, or Rockschool.  Needless to say, it is also an essential skill for performing an instrument in a real-world scenario. Thanks to the wonderful Dave Cohen, the much-desired software is born! Below is a screenshot of the software in action!

Ear Training

Random Music Note Generator can be confusing to use!

I know you are hoping to dive straight in for some serious ear training right now!
Here’s the link to the amazing software :https://random-music-generators.onrender.com (update 15 Nov 2024)

However, let us be your guide before you spend time feeling the agony of this very customizable system. Starting with the most important settings you need to get it right, Note Range.

Setting it up!

Note Range

Because the system is designed for almost any instrument, it covers an extremely wide range of music notes. The software is written in midi! Therefore, it has a range of 0 to 127.

Music Note Range

The range of various instruments on a piano.

But since MIDI code makes little sense to most musicians, let’s go with note range as per the piano layout! To set the system for your instrument, follow the settings below.

Ukulele is from C4 to B5
Guitar is from E2 to E5
Bass is from E1 to E3
Piano for Melody, try C4 to C6

Melody Characteristic

Scale Pitches: This option allows you to generate a random passage based on the Key (Tonic Note) and the Scale (Tonality). This option does not allow you to choose a specific group of notes out of the entire scale.

Custom Pitches: This option allows you to generate a random passage based on the music notes you have input. This option requires you to know exactly what notes you want the system to use. However, you will need to enter them in terms of Note name and Octave range. An example will be, Middle C will be C4.

Max Jump: This option tells the system how far apart can the adjacent notes jump away from each other.

  • Max Jump = 1: C to D
  • Max Jump = 2: C to D or C to E
  • Max Jump = 3:  C to D or C to E or C to F
    etc …

No. Melodies: This option tells the system how many random melodies do you want to generate at a go. From my experience, generating 20 melodies takes about 0.01324820582038 seconds. Well, pretty fast.

Rhythm Characteristic

Time Signature: How many beats in a bar!

Tempo: How fast!

Constant Rhythm: If you select this option, all the random notes generated will be following the same Note Duration you have choosen.

Varied Rhythm: If you select this option, then the system will create a random rhythmic pattern for the random notes. Maximum randomess!

Note Duration: Crotchet? Quaver? Your choice!

Number of notes: This is a little odd for me to understand but it basically generates the number of notes you want per passage. So if you choose the default 10 for a 4/4 time signature. The system will generate 10 notes and effectively create 2 and a half bars of music. I recommend you to stick to the correct number of notes based on your time signature. For example, 4 or 8 notes for a 4/4 time signature.

Presets

This option is useful if you do not wish to set the entire system all over again everytime you shut your browser. There are also some built-in presets that you can explore.

All ready! Hit that Generate button now!

Well not quite. After exploring the melody generator, I’m sure you are curious about the Rhythm and Chord Progression generator. I will dive deep into those in the next article but below is a brief summary of what they are capable of.

Rhythm: This is great tool for drummers! It generates a random rhythmic pattern and students can try to pick it up just by hearing.

Chord Progression: If you take music examination (for example Rockschool), you will know that the hearing test has 2 sections. The 2nd and most dread section is to identify chords in a chord progession and then performing it back to the examiner. This tool will definitely help students to devise strategies and techniques to tackle this tricky test.

Conclusion

To conclude. The ability, or lack of, to hear music note has always been a nightmare for many musicians. Don’t start envying those who were born with the perfect pitch! They often complain about how they get nightmares when other musicians don’t play in tune. Above all, music note recognition, much like singing the pitch of the note right, requires training. And while this tool is amazing, it is not going to instantly gift you the ability to hear the music notes. Proper guidance, techniques and practice is a must to attain this seemingly impossible feat.

Close Menu