Oct 15 2024

Alternatives to ABRSM

By Vinnie Mah Music Articles No Comments

Alternatives to ABRSM

As a music school in Singapore, we are often asked about the alternatives to ABRSM for piano lessons. The common reason why parents are less keen on sending their child to classical piano is usually because it is irrelevant. At face value, piano lessons are about the ability to play beautiful classical pieces. But if we dive deeper, the benefits that come along are reasons why classical pieces are still very relevant. However, we shall leave those in our next article and focus on the alternatives to ARBSM today.

Some examples of ABRSM alternatives

Before we share more about the available alternatives to ARBSM, do take a look at what our students have put up. The Vinnie Classroom Piano Series is a series of performances done by our students using songs from the ANZCA syllabus. As shown in the videos, students were enjoying their lessons and excited to share what they can do on the piano. As music teachers, it is important for us to keep out students motivated, a good syllabus definitely makes it easier. More on ANZCA later this article.

List of Piano Syllabus available in Singapore

To help with your research, here is a list of piano syllabi offered by music schools in Singapore with piano lessons.

Broadly speaking, every music school in Singapore can create its syllabus. Yamaha is one example where they have their in-house syllabus that is not related to any others on this list. The question should be about why we choose one syllabus from another.

Australian and New Zealand Cultural Arts (ANZCA)

One of the most well-established alternatives to ABRSM is ANZCA. ANZCA’s music exams offer a broad range of options for musicians of all levels. Their repertoire includes genre such as blues, jazz and pop!

Wide Genre Options: ANZCA allows students to choose from a wider variety of pieces, offering more flexibility in exploring different genres and styles.
Performance-Oriented: ANZCA uses pieces that are often more upbeat and modern, setting students up to be performance-oriented.

Piano Lessons in Singapore have changed drastically!

In our previous article, we shared how Piano lessons in Singapore have changed drastically. In the article, we focus on how ANZCA benefited our piano lessons.

Trinity College London (TCL)

One of the most well-established alternatives to ABRSM is Trinity College London. What sets Trinity apart is its flexibility in exam repertoire and the ability to focus more on practical skills than theory for some students.

Repertoire Freedom: Trinity allows students to choose from a wider variety of pieces, offering more flexibility.
Performance-Oriented: Trinity places greater emphasis on musicality and performance, allowing students to express themselves through their playing.
Rock & Pop Exams: In addition to classical exams, Trinity offers Rock & Pop assessments for students who are more inclined toward contemporary genres. This includes vocals, guitar, drums, and more.

London College of Music Examinations (LCME)

London College of Music Examinations (LCME), part of the University of West London, provides another highly regarded alternative. LCME’s exams are recognized internationally and cover a broad spectrum of musical disciplines.

Comprehensive Subject Choices: LCME also offers contemporary music, music technology, and even composition.
Digital Exams: LCME has embraced modern technology by offering online and recorded assessment options. This makes it easier for students to take exams remotely.
Flexible Syllabus: The LCME syllabus is designed to be flexible, catering to different learning paces and preferences. Students can mix classical and contemporary pieces to reflect their individual music journeys.

Rockschool (RSL)

For students with a passion for contemporary music styles like rock, pop, and metal, Rockschool (RSL) is an excellent choice. Specializing in graded exams for popular music instruments like guitar, bass, drums, vocals, and piano, Rockschool offers an exciting alternative to the more traditional classical path.

Pop & Rock Focus: With its focus on genres that are more popular in today’s music scene, Rockschool’s syllabus caters to students looking to learn and perform contemporary music.
Skills Beyond Playing: RSL exams emphasize broader musical skills, such as improvisation, composition, and playing in bands, which are essential for many professional musicians today.
Accessible Learning: Rockschool is ideal for students who may not connect as deeply with classical music but still want to achieve measurable musical progress.

Conclusion on Alternatives to ABRSM

Do we actually need any alternatives to ABRSM? The answer is largely based on how you want your piano lessons to be. In Singapore, we are pampered with the wide options available for music lessons! Choice overloading is a real situation, it is a cognitive impairment. It often leads us to lesser confidence, greater regrets, and overall dissatisfaction. So while nothing is conclusive, we hope our article helped shed some lights on the options on your plate.

Talk to us, we are here to help. Or, take a Trial Lesson with us!

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Oct 01 2024

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Piano Lessons in Singapore have changed drastically!

By Vinnie Mah Music Articles No Comments

Piano Lessons in Singapore have changed drastically!: Beyond Classical Music and Examinations

Ryan enjoying his lesson on Blues Piano!

Piano Lessons have changed drastically in today’s world, especially in Singapore. Learning the piano has evolved far beyond the traditional focus on classical pieces and graded examinations like ABRSM. While those aspects are still valuable, modern piano lessons are now more diverse. Students to explores different genres such as jazz, pop, and even electronic music. Instead of focusing solely on technical precision, modern piano lessons emphasize making learning more engaging for today’s students.

Exploration of Multiple Genres

Unlike in the past, where classical music dominated piano lessons, students now have the freedom to explore genres. Pop, rock, jazz, and even video game soundtracks are incorporated into lesson plans. This makes the piano accessible and exciting for a broader audience. This flexibility allows students to connect with the music they enjoy.

Ryan, demonstrating a tune in the style of Boogie.

ANZCA – Alternative Piano Lessons in Singapore

ANZCA stands for Australian and New Zealand Cultural Arts .The ANZCA piano syllabus offers a modern to piano education, featuring a wider variety of musical genres in its repertoire. Unlike traditional syllabuses that focus heavily on classical music, ANZCA includes contemporary styles such as boogie, jazz, blues, and pop. This modern approach allows students to explore and engage with different types of music that are relevant and exciting, making lessons more enjoyable while still building essential piano skills. The variety ensures a well-rounded musical education that caters to various interests and strengths.

Kaitlyn demonstrating a tune in the style of Tango.

Holistic Learning Experience

Modern piano lessons often take a holistic approach, focusing not just on playing but also on other musical elements like ear training, rhythm, and music theory. Teachers encourage students to develop a well-rounded skill set that goes beyond simply playing notes on a page. This approach enables students to become more versatile musicians, capable of reading sheet music, playing by ear, and even composing their own music.

Kye Hsin demonstrating a tune from Encore! A syllabus we use for younger children.

A Balanced Approach to Examinations

While graded examinations like ABRSM or Trinity remain important for students seeking formal certification, they are no longer the sole focus of piano education. Many music schools now offer optional exam tracks, allowing students to choose whether they want to pursue formal exams or focus on personal enjoyment and creativity. This flexibility ensures that students can learn at their own pace, without the pressure of exams overshadowing their love for music.

Watch the outtakes to see just how much fun the children are having!

Conclusion

Modern piano lessons go beyond just classical music and exams. Our focus is on helping students develop a true love for the piano and enjoy their learning experience. Cultivating a passion for music is our primary goal, and exam preparation is entirely optional, allowing students the freedom to explore music at their own pace and in their own way.

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

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Sep 30 2024

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Djembe Singapore Club at The Esplanade

By Vinnie Mah Music Articles No Comments

Djembe Singapore Club at the Esplanade

Oh snap. It is the Djembe Singapore Club at the Esplanade!

#mydurian #esplanadesg

We brought our little boy to The Esplanade to watch the Singapore Djembe Club perform with Iya Sako at the Outdoor Theater, and it was an unforgettable experience. Normally, our very active boy can’t sit still during shows, and we’ve often struggled to keep him engaged. But this time was different. The mesmerizing rhythms of the djembe drums completely captivated him, holding his attention in a way we hadn’t seen before. He was frozen in place, his eyes wide as he watched the drummers with absolute focus, enchanted by the powerful beats and vibrant energy of the performance.

The Djembe Man of Singapore

Kelvin Kew and the Singapore Djembe Club

Kelvin Kew is a passionate devotee of Djembe and West African drumming, making him a leading figure in Singapore’s drumming community. Since founding his drumming club in 2004, he has spent 20 years perfecting and promoting this art form. His deep connection to the late Grandmaster Mamady Keita and extensive knowledge of West African rhythms position him as a vital cultural link between Singapore and Africa. Kelvin’s dedication and expertise have made him the torchbearer of Djembe drumming in Singapore, inspiring many with his artistry.

Djembe Lessons in Singapore Schools

Like Kelvin and Djembe Singapore Club, Vinnie Classroom has actively promoted the Djembe in primary schools across Singapore. We’ve had the privilege of introducing students to this West African drum. When Djembe is unavailable, we share the love of percussion through Cajon.

Djembe Singapore

Teaching at the primary level means laying the foundation for rhythmic ensemble skills. Our role is to inspire young minds. By instilling a love for drumming, we help prepare children to potentially join Kelvin and his team in the future, continuing their musical journey.

Iya Sako – Guest artiste for the Crossing Borders Festival

Iya Sako at the Esplanade

Iya Sako’s incredible Djembe skills left us in awe during the show at The Esplanade. His mastery of complex rhythms and dynamic playing brought a raw energy to the performance, capturing the audience’s attention from start to finish. With precise control and deep passion, Iya showcased the rich tradition of West African drumming, blending technique and emotion effortlessly. His performance was not only a display of talent but a true celebration of the Djembe’s cultural significance, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

Other than Djembe…

Djembe Singapore Club at the Esplanade - The Sangban

Dundumba - African Bass drum at The Esplanade

Kenkeni
Sangban
Dundumba

Collectively known as the Dunun, these lesser-known African drums are seldom seen in Singapore and it was such an eye-opener! The first on the list is the Kenkeni drum. The Kenkeni drum is the smallest of the three traditional West African dunun drums, producing a high-pitched tone that serves as a rhythmic base in Djembe ensembles.

The Sangban drum, part of the traditional West African dunun family, produces a medium-pitched sound and plays a key role in establishing the rhythmic patterns that drive Djembe ensembles.

The Dundumba, or Dundunba, is the largest and lowest-pitched drum in the traditional West African dunun family. Known for its deep, resonant sound, the Dundumba sets the foundational pulse in Djembe ensembles, providing a powerful, steady beat that grounds the other drums and instruments. Its rhythms are often slow and heavy, giving the ensemble its driving force. Traditionally, it plays an important role in community gatherings, ceremonies, and dances, where its deep tones are meant to inspire strength and unity.

Watch a short demo here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vnld0ZB_atw

Djembe is for everyone!

Kelvin Kew and Bing on the Djembe

Bing stood out as the only female Djembe player of the night. She was captivating the audience with her blazing fast and intricate rhythms. Her exceptional skill and control over the Djembe were nothing short of mesmerizing! She effortlessly delivered complex beats with remarkable precision and speed. Each rhythm she played added energy and intensity to the performance, leaving the crowd in awe of her talent. Bing’s ability to push the limits of speed and complexity truly set her apart, making her a standout performer of the evening.

Conclusion

Djembe Singapore Club at the Esplanade

The Djembe has a unique power to bring people together, fostering unity and peace through its vibrant rhythms. Inspired by the efforts of the Djembe Singapore Club, Vinnie Classroom seeks to contribute to preserving this beautiful art form. We aim introduce its values of community and cultural appreciation to future generations. Ensuring that the spirit of Djembe thrives and continues to inspire harmony in our diverse society.

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

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Sep 27 2024

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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

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