Nov 05 2024

Learn Piano on your own in 5 steps!

By Vinnie Mah Music Articles No Comments

Learn Piano on your own in 5 steps!

While most people prefer attending piano lessons in Singapore, it is entirely possible to learn the piano without attending lessons! In this article, we want to use our 10 years of experience running our music school to help you skip piano lessons! Yes, you heard that right! While this may not be suitable for everyone, it might just benefit you. Let’s dive in.

Step 1: You can learn piano without a teacher but not without a piano!

Step 1 of teaching yourself the piano is, obviously, to have the right tool to learn it. If you are thinking of using the Garageband on your iPad, please drop that idea. Piano playing requires that tactile sensation of hitting a key and the touch screen devices simply can’t offer it. However, we understand that committing to an acoustic piano is a heavy decision. But we are here to help! Read our article “A guide to buying your first piano” to have a clearer idea!

Kaiser is using a digital keyboard for his piano performance!

Step 2: Revise your music theory!

If you grew up in Singapore, you would have completed at least 10 years of music theory during your music classes during school! During the last 10 years, Vinnie Classroom has been one of the many vendors in Singapore offering music lessons. Commonly referred to as AMIS (Arts and Music Instructor Scheme), it is a registry of instructors with MOE for providing what we specialize in. However, being physically there during music lessons is enormously different from paying attention and learning what was taught. Thankfully you can still revise and get yourself back on track with music theory books and lessons! Piano playing requires a good grasp of music theory and there are plenty of resources these days. Rockschool and ABSRM offer music theory examinations and they are very popular amongst our students. Of course, if reading these books on your own isn’t working, you can consider signing up for our music theory lessons! Our teachers go through regular training to keep their minds fresh too! Because everyone needs help on this topic.

ANZCA Piano Asia Representative Ms. Audrey Chin

Ms Chin teaching interesting music theory during a teachers’ training session!

Step 3: Work on good piano-playing postures and techniques

The most commonly overlooked factor for most self-taught musicians has to be proper postures and techniques. Because of the lack of a piano teacher, most people are unable to tell if they are doing it right. However, this article intends to help you learn the piano correctly on your own, so we are sharing some useful pointers to take note of when practicing. Moreover, modern technology and the abundance of free resources have made self-learning more accessible and achievable than ever.

Use your phone to video your practice session and use it to review your piano techniques and postures.
Place a mirror by the side of your piano for instant correction of habits.
Refer to helpful Infogrames. For example, refer to our Good Piano Posture infogram below!
Search the internet for more information! Google is your best friend 😀

Infogram on Good Piano Posture

Step 4: The essentials of piano playing

Piano playing is impossible if one does not possess good dexterity on their fingers. Many will struggle during this stage and give up easily, with a list of complaints that are almost identical.

“I cannot play the piano because…”

my fingers are not moving as I want them to.
the notes are too far apart and my hands are too small.
I have no strength to press the keys down after a while.
there is no way I can get my left and right hands to move independently.
the keys feel the same so I kept hitting the wrong notes.

If you find yourself using the same complaints as the list above, keep in mind that you are not alone. Even the most professional pianist once faced the same issues on the piano.

So how do we get past these common issues faced by beginners on the piano then? Well for a start, beginners practice scales on the piano! Scales are more than just a set of notes, they are essential to music creation and also to getting your fingers strong, agile, and accurate on the 88 keys. So you are done with scales, then you may consider trying some practice method books! These books will cover other elements of music such as arpeggios, chords, and cadences.

Piano playing should be a form of stress relief.

Step 5: Pick a song let’s go!

You should be feeling very comfortable on the piano by this stage of your music journey. All your fingers should be ready and your brain should be processing those notes as fast as you read a book. It is time to pick your first song and dive right in. BUT here is where people start giving up. During regular music lessons, the teacher will be able to spot and correct your mistakes as you practice. They can also share better ways to accelerate your learning pace on the song you are working on. Based on your lifestyle, a good teacher can share useful tips on how to practice your instrument. Being alone means the lack of helpful eyes to keep you on track. Regardless, here are some of our tips on learning a song.

Listen to the song as many times as you need. You know you are ready when you can sing out every part of the song.
Tackle one small section of the song at a time. Don’t try to play through the song like a tractor plowing through the field.
Work on difficult sections slowly before increasing speed.
Use a metronome.
Video your practice for review purposes.

That’s it! You’ve got it! Congratulations on picking the piano. We hope our article is helpful to you and gives you the much-needed confidence.

What if I am still unsuccessful?

Learning the piano by yourself is indeed a very challenging task. If you feel like you can’t play the piano as well as you like, then you might want to consider enrolling for formal piano lessons. Talk to us about your piano lessons. Or, take a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you.

Email UsEmail Us

Oct 22 2024

Love0

Piano Lessons in Singapore need training

By Vinnie Mah Music Articles No Comments

Piano Lessons in Singapore need training

Piano lessons in Singapore Music School

Training for piano lessons in Singapore is an indispensable part of the job. Piano teachers want the best for their students and will go to great lengths to craft better music lessons. Vinnie Classroom, a music school in Singapore, is no stranger to hosting music workshops for piano teachers. Over the years, we had the honor of hosting training programs for various examination boards.

Private Piano Lessons in Singapore

In Singapore, we refer to traveling piano teachers as private piano teachers. However, the same term can be applied to a piano teacher who runs a small music studio that typically has just 1 piano. Such music teachers rely on networking and the community to share their resources, updates, and even student enquiries. Fanny from Clavier Loft stood out as one of the most popular piano teachers in Yishun. She is a decorated piano teacher who is very good with young children. She also juggles her success as a piano teacher and a mother of 2 lovely girls effortlessly. However, despite being good with her profession, she has never shy away from training and upgrading. Always goes the extra mile to keep herself updated.

private piano lessons Singapore

ABRSM, ANZCA, Rockschool and more…

Examination boards hold regular seminars for music teachers and music schools in Singapore. They update their syllabus to keep up with the current standard of musicians. Often updating their repertoires with current favorites! One of the most recent seminars was held by Rockschool London. It was a great gathering of music schools and music teachers. Sharing more than just the content of the syllabus but insights of teaching methods they deploy during their music lessons.

Music school singapore

Conclusion

We all want the best for our students and don’t mind doing the invisible tasks. While not written in stone, it is safe to say all music schools in Singapore share a common goal of wanting the best for their students. Creating the safest environment for them to grow and develop. Becoming a better person in all aspects through the power of music lessons.

Talk to us about your piano lessons. Or, take a Trial Lesson with us!

Email UsEmail Us

Sep 27 2024

Love0

True initial cost of music lessons in Singapore – Guitar, Piano and Drums!

By Vinnie Mah Music Articles No Comments

True initial cost of music lessons in Singapore – Guitar, Piano and Drums!

Parents are often drawn to music lessons by the appeal of low fees, but many are unaware of the actual initial costs involved in Singapore, which can lead to unexpected surprises. From purchasing instruments and equipment to the potential downsides of choosing a less experienced music school, the financial commitment goes beyond just lesson fees. In this article, we aim to uncover the true costs of sending a child to music lessons and helping parents make informed decisions.

For those in a hurry, here are the estimated lowest possible cost for each instrument…

Piano: $300 for Keyboard, $1000 for upright Piano

Ukulele: $50

Acoustic Guitar: $200

Electric Guitar: $200 for Electric Guitar, $120 for Electric Guitar Amplifier

Bass Guitar: $250 for Bass Guitar, $110 for Bass Amplifier

Classical Guitar: $180

Drum Kit: $500 for Acoustic Drum Kit, $600 for Electronic Drum Kit

Piano and Keyboard

A digital piano or keyboard typically costs between SGD 300 to SGD 2,000. Acoustic pianos start around SGD 3,000 and go up to a five- or six-figure price tag depending on the brand and model.

What to look out for: Piano

When shopping for your first piano for your music lessons in Singapore, consider the following: whether to choose an acoustic or digital piano, depending on your space and budget. Look for weighted keys that mimic the feel of an acoustic piano, which is essential for building proper technique. Consider the size, as smaller keyboards may lack the full 88 keys needed for classical training. Don’t forget additional costs like a sturdy bench, stand, and pedals. Lastly, read reviews or try the piano in-store to ensure quality sound and build.

What to look out for: Keyboard

When shopping for your first keyboard, consider the number of keys, ideally aiming for a full 88-key model or at least 61 keys for beginners. Ensure the keys are touch-sensitive or weighted to mimic the feel of an acoustic piano. Look for built-in learning features, such as metronomes or lesson modes, and check for connectivity options like MIDI or USB ports for future digital integration. Portability, sound quality, and additional accessories like stands, pedals, or benches are also key factors to keep in mind.

Ukulele

Beginner ukuleles are affordable, starting at around SGD 40 to SGD 150. A higher-end model can go as high as $4000-$5000.

ukulele lessons for kids in Singapore

When shopping for your first ukulele, consider the size—soprano, concert, or tenor—depending on comfort and sound preference. Ensure the build quality is solid, with smooth fret edges and durable wood. Check the intonation by playing notes along the fretboard to ensure the instrument stays in tune. Look for reputable brands and consider accessories like a tuner, gig bag, and strap to complete the package.

Acoustic Guitar

An entry-level acoustic guitar ranges from SGD 150 to SGD 500. A professional model can range from $4000 to $8000.

guitar lesson singapore

When shopping for your first acoustic guitar, consider body shape and size (dreadnought, concert, etc.) for comfort and sound preference. Check out this youtube link for a better understanding on the shape and size of an acoustic guitar. Tonewood (like spruce or mahogany) refers to the type of wood that the guitar is made with, often affecting the overall tone of the guitar. However this isn’t much of an issue as most entry level uses laminated wood instead of solid wood due to cost. Check for action (string height) to ensure it’s beginner-friendly, as high action can be harder to play. Test the intonation by playing up the neck to ensure it stays in tune at higher frets. Look for reputable brands and check for a solid build with no visible flaws. Lastly, consider including accessories like a gig bag, tuner, and picks.

Electric Guitar

Electric guitars are typically more expensive, ranging from SGD 300 to SGD 800 for beginners. For professional models, it ranges from $4000 to $12000 or more. Additionally, you’ll need an amplifier, which costs around SGD 100 to SGD 300. You may also consider a headphone amplifier and listen to your guitar through your earphones, albeit having around the same price tag.

When shopping for your first electric guitar, consider the body style (solid, semi-hollow, or hollow) for comfort and tone. Check the pickups (single-coil vs. humbuckers) to match your desired sound—cleaner or heavier tones. The neck profile should feel comfortable in your hand, and the scale length affects string tension and playability. The type of bridge (Fixed, 6-point tremolo, or 2-point term, etc) that matches the style of music you desire to play. Ensure the intonation and action are set up properly for ease of playing. Additionally, factor in accessories like an amplifier, cables, and a tuner to complete your setup.

Bass Guitar

Beginner bass guitars cost between SGD 300 to SGD 700, with a small amplifier adding another SGD 100 to SGD 300.

When shopping for your first bass guitar, consider the scale length (long or short), as it impacts playability and string tension. Check the number of strings (typically 4, 5, or 6) based on the music you plan to play. For beginners, you won’t go wrong with a 4-string bass guitar. The pickup configuration (P, J, or humbuckers) influences your tone, so choose one that fits your style. Ensure the bass has a comfortable neck width and weight, especially for beginners. Lastly, inspect the build quality and consider investing in essential accessories like an amp, cable, and gig bag.

Drum Kit

A basic electronic drum kit is priced around SGD 400 to SGD 1,000, while acoustic kits start at about SGD 600 and can go much higher.

When shopping for your first drum kit, consider whether you want an acoustic or electronic kit, as both offer different sound experiences. Acoustic drum kit feels and sounds right to most drummers and are much preferred, however electronic kit offers the ability to play late into the night without disturbing your neighbors or family members. Look at the build quality of drums, ensuring the shells are sturdy and the hardware is durable. Make sure the size suits your practice space, and check for included components like cymbals, a hi-hat, and a bass drum pedal. Additionally, consider drumsticks, a drum throne, and soundproofing accessories to complete your setup, especially if you’re playing in a shared or small space.

The true initial cost of music lessons

The cost of music lessons in Singapore can vary widely, with some as low as $15 per hour can easily be found online. However, this raises concerns about the teacher’s qualifications and experience. At Vinnie Classroom, our teachers regularly attend workshops, masterclasses, and clinics with renowned practitioners. We put our focus on pedagogical methods and carefully craft holistic learning experiences. In a music school setting, our teachers can share knowledge and resources, creating a more enriching environment. Additionally, schools like ours can provide a safe and conducive learning space, recitals, and examinations, ensuring a comprehensive musical education. Something that would be challenging for private music educators otherwise.

In conclusion, music education is not the cheapest enrichment program you can sign your child up for. However, the benefit of sending a child to music lessons is immeasurable. I’ll leave you with a quote from a music educator workshop we attended just yesterday.

“The arts are not a way to make a living. They are a very human way of making life more bearable. Practicing art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to make your soul grow.” – Kurt Vonnegut

kurt vonnegut

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

Email UsEmail Us

Sep 18 2024

Love0

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

By Vinnie Mah Music Articles No Comments

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

music is better than everything As 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!

Email UsEmail Us

Sep 17 2024

Love0

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

By Vinnie Mah 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:

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.
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.
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:

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.
Coordination Challenges
Playing the guitar requires the simultaneous use of both hands in different ways. Mastering this coordination can take some time.
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:

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.
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.
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:

Expensive and Large
Pianos can be costly and take up significant space. This may limit practice options at home for some students.
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.
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:

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.
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.
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:

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.
Physical Demands
Drumming can be physically demanding, especially for beginners who aren’t used to the stamina required for longer sessions.
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.

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!

Email UsEmail Us

Jun 25 2024

Love0

VCRX – Vinnie Classroom 10th Anniversary

By Vinnie Mah Events One Comment

VCRX – Vinnie Classroom 10th Anniversary 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.

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.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vinnie Classroom (@vinnieclassroom)

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

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

music lessons