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Oct 01 2024
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Piano Lessons in Singapore have changed drastically!

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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

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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!

Contact us if you wish to find out more! 🙂

Sep 27 2024
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true cost of music lessons in Sinagpore

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

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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. 

piano lessons singapore

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.

vinnie mah

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.

bass lesson for teenagers singapore

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.

drum lesson singapore

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!

Contact us if you wish to find out more! 🙂

Sep 25 2024
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piano lessons singapore

10 Influencers on IG that redefine piano lessons in Singapore

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10 Influencers on Instagram that redefine piano lessons in Singapore

Piano lessons by music schools in Singapore have long been portrayed as sterile and monotonous, often focused solely on rigid classical training and exam preparation, leaving little room for creativity and exploration. But thankfully, that is a thing of the past. Learning the piano has transformed from a rigid, classical curriculum into a dynamic, creative pursuit. While classical training and ABRSM exams still hold value, the modern piano journey has expanded into genres, styles, and innovative approaches that make it more accessible and fun. With keyboards being lightweight and portable, students can take music anywhere, adding versatility to their practice. Social media platforms, especially Instagram, have provided a fresh avenue for piano enthusiasts to express their unique musical styles. Here, we explore 10 Instagram accounts that inspire creativity and showcase the endless possibilities of piano playing.

 

Glasysmusic

glasysmusic is not what you would expect from the regular piano lessons in Singapore. He creatively combines music notation software and a MIDI keyboard to produce both auditory and visual art. He often draws intricate images, like faces or shapes, using musical notes in the software, transforming what appears to be a graphic drawing into a playable tune. Once the image is complete, Glasys performs it live, showing how visual patterns can translate into engaging music.

Protovolt

protovolt brilliantly recreates iconic retro synth and keyboard sounds by blending modern technology with vintage gear. Using a mix of classic analog synthesizers and contemporary digital tools, he captures the nostalgic tones of past decades while adding his own futuristic twist. His setups often feature rare and unique instruments, allowing him to experiment with both authentic vintage sounds and new sonic possibilities. This fusion of old and new gear makes his content a treasure trove for synth enthusiasts and fans of retro music alike.

eunike.tanzil

eunike.tanzil has a remarkable ability to compose music on the go, whether she’s in the studio or even on a plane. Her creativity knows no bounds, as she can craft beautiful compositions from any environment. Her popular “Hum Me a Melody” series showcases her talent to transform simple, hummed melodies into fully orchestrated pieces. This series highlights not only her musical skill but also her versatility, turning everyday moments into symphonic masterpieces, inspiring her audience to see music creation as an accessible and spontaneous art form.

_buttonmasher

_buttonmasher takes keyboard performance to a nostalgic level by recreating the iconic sounds of classic arcade games. With a combination of digital keyboards and synths, he meticulously reproduces the beeps, bloops, and soundscapes that defined the golden age of gaming. His mastery of sound design allows him to capture everything from 8-bit melodies to the pulse-pounding themes of retro favorites, all while giving them a fresh twist through live performance. By blending modern gear with timeless arcade sounds, @_buttonmasher brings the joy of retro gaming to life through music.

jemheigis

jemheigis expertly recreates the soulful, groove-filled keyboard parts often heard in Bruno Mars’ hits, capturing the essence and vibe of the songs with ease. Her playing style is rich with the funky rhythms and smooth chord progressions that are signature to Mars’ music. Beyond this, she explores various scales and modes to add depth and uniqueness to her performances, giving her interpretations a fresh, dynamic twist. By blending familiar pop-soul elements with her own musical exploration, @jemheigis keeps her keyboard playing vibrant and engaging.

nahresol

nahresol brings a fresh and playful approach to jazz piano, making even the most complex chords and improvisations look fun and easy. Through her engaging tutorials and creative performances, she breaks down jazz techniques in a way that’s approachable for both beginners and seasoned musicians. Her relaxed style, combined with a knack for simplifying intricate concepts, helps demystify jazz, turning it into an enjoyable and accessible experience for her followers.

shanjiangmusic

shanjiangmusic captivates audiences with her emotional, expressive piano playing, often blending classical techniques with modern melodies. Her performances showcase a deep connection to the music, infusing each piece with passion and sensitivity. Whether she’s performing covers or original compositions, Shan Jiang’s ability to convey emotion through the keys sets her apart, making her music resonate on a personal level with listeners.

domi_keys

domi_keys takes jazz piano to extraordinary levels with her electrifying performances and innovative improvisations. Her playing is characterized by rapid-fire runs, intricate chord voicings, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. Domi’s ability to seamlessly blend traditional jazz elements with contemporary influences makes her sound truly unique. With each piece, she showcases not only her technical prowess but also her boundless creativity. She is surely inspiring a new generation of musicians to explore the limitless possibilities of jazz.

theoilyshoppe

Finally, we want to share about this 101 year old grandpa who has melted many of our hearts.

theoilyshoppe shares the heartwarming journey of her 101-year-old grandfather. He plays intricate tunes on the piano with remarkable ease and grace. Despite his age, his fingers glide over the keys effortlessly, reflecting decades of musical mastery. Each performance is a testament to his lifelong passion for music, reminding us that talent knows no age limit. Through her videos, she captures not only the beauty of his playing but also the joy! The deep connection that music brings to their family. A legacy that inspires all generations.

Conclusion on redefined Piano lessons in Singapore

Piano lessons in Singapore have evolved significantly from their traditionally rigid structure, embracing a more flexible and creative approach. With a focus on diverse musical styles and the integration of technology, students can now explore their musicality in ways that resonate with their individual interests. This transformation has made learning the piano more enjoyable and accessible. It allows students to express themselves freely and engage with music in a dynamic, fulfilling manner.

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

Contact us if you wish to find out more! 🙂

Sep 18 2024
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music is better than everything

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

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

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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.
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Vinnie Classroom Reunion 5
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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! 🙂

Jun 25 2024
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VCRX Vinnie Classroom Recital

VCRX – Vinnie Classroom 10th Anniversary

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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

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Nov 30 2022
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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!

Jul 04 2021
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keytar singapore

Joanna Lim wrote the toughest song ever | Parallel Vortex

By Music Articles, Piano No Comments

Joanna Lim wrote the toughest song, the Parallel Vortex

Joanna Lim is no stranger to composing tough songs like Parallel Vortex! In fact, there is a reason why this amazing keyboardist is a friend to the god of keyboard Jordan Rudess. However, there are more than meets the eye. We are lucky enough to sit and chat with Singapore’s goddess of the keyboard.

Joanna Lim

Firstly congratulations again on your 2 babies! Firstly your very adorable son Denver and secondly your album Parallel Vortex! Can we confirm that you are the most hardworking Mother/Musician in Singapore?

Thank you for having me, Vinnie! I guess being a mom really unlocked strengths and abilities that I never knew I had. Haha 

Being a mother is serious work! What is the driving force behind writing your album while raising a baby?

I think being a mom is really the toughest job in the world (kudos to all moms out there!). Parallel Vortex was actually written before having a kid. I told a Chinese newspaper reporter that I wanted to write something for my late dad who passed on in 2008 due to cancer.  After much procrastination and agonizing years of writing and recording, I finally got it out of the system in 2020. I was recording till my third trimester because I knew I would not have time to do so with a kid around.

keytar singapore

I know you from your Zero Sequence days! Totally impressed by those forward-tilted keyboards with fast running note actions. That was a long time ago, what has changed for you?

Age. Haha. Playing with a keyboard tilted is not good for your wrists. As time goes by, my setup for gigs becomes smaller (lazier to carry more things!) and more efficient (thanks to technology!)
I do miss those days with the adrenaline rush from all those fast notes. Nowadays, I get my adrenaline from open jams with improvisations. I love those spontaneous moments and the chance to play with many different musicians.

You play the piano, keyboard, and saxophone in your songs. If you want to introduce yourself with one of your songs, which will it be and why?

This is a tough one because every track represents different stages of my life. If I were to pick one, perhaps the first track – Parallel Vortex? The song has a mix of everything. From heavy guitar riffs, double pedals, and synth to mid-tempo fusion solos and it has a symphonic ending.  Pretty much gives you the summary of the entire album.

saxophone singapore

As a musician from Singapore, what do you have to say to budding musicians who have the aspiration to be like you?

Friendship and family first. Never sacrifice the above just to pursue your music career. Love people and the musicians, jobs, and inspiration will come to you. Be yourself. 

Do you have any juicy stories to share?

I don’t really have any juicy story to share. haha
However, do check out my husband’s albums too! Simon Yong’s second guitar instrumental album – The Nasty Catawumpus was also released in 2020. We wanted to release our albums at the same time. I guess the “healthy competition” between us pushes each other to write and record. Now we have each started writing for our next album (cannot lose out. haha)

Click here to find out how you can sign up for a Free Trial Lesson to be an awesome musician like Joanna Lim.

If you wish to find out more about our keyboard program, click here.

May 11 2020
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dick lee home lesson

Left Hand Piano Styles & Patterns

By Piano No Comments

Bosch Livestream on 9 May 2020, Saturday

Following our short piano tutorial on left-hand piano styles last Saturday, here’s a more detailed explanation of what was covered.

(Click the link if you missed the video! Or click here to download the chord sheet.)

Left-Hand Accompaniment Styles in Music

There are many ways to play a left-hand accompaniment on the keyboard, to convey different modes and show off different music genres. For example, an Alberti bass might sound like this:

Or, you could play the 1-5-8 pattern shown in the video, which is most commonly found in contemporary music. You might find some variation of it in “Faded” by Alan Walker or some parts of “River Flows In You” by Yiruma.

How to Play the 1-5-8 Left-Hand Piano Style

The example we used was “Home”, composed by Dick Lee. You can click here to download the chord sheet if you want to learn to play the left-hand accompaniment for this song.

The chords used in “Home” include C, Am, Em, F, G, Dm and E, represented by chord symbols hovering above certain words in the lyrics, indicating when they are employed. Chord symbols contain information that tell us what type of chord to play. C / F / G /E chords are major chords and Am / Em / Dm are minor chords e.g. A minor, E minor.

There are many types of chords – major, minor, diminished, augmented etc. Each has a different sound quality that lends a song different moods. You can learn the notes for each type of chord by Googling, but having basic knowledge of chords in music theory will help you derive those chords much easier than searching for each chord as you need it.  

To make learning easier, we will play “Home” in the key of C Major so we only need to use the white keys on a keyboard. Here are the notes for each chord, and be sure to play them with a 1-5-8-5 variation at steady intervals from one another.

Left-hand C chord Piano Style

C chord

Left-hand Am chord Piano Style

Am chord

Left-hand Em or E chord Piano Style

Em chord / E chord

Left-hand F chord Piano Style

F chord

Left-hand G chord Piano Style

G chord

Left-hand Dm chord Piano Style

Dm chord

Some words before you leave…

It’s not difficult to learn left-hand piano styles, especially with a plethora of YouTube tutorials out there. But with so much information available on the internet, it can be tricky choosing reliable tutorials that guide you correctly. The text highlighted in blue are important basics to know when you take your first steps into pop piano.

Want to find out more? Sign up for a trial lesson with us! Do also follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

Up next…

Blog post: How to choose your first keyboard/piano

Mar 28 2020
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video call music lessons

Video Conferencing for Music Lessons | Does it actually work?

By Acoustic Guitar, Classical Piano, Drum, Electric Guitar, Music Articles, News, Piano, Pop Piano, Ukulele No Comments

Video Conferencing for Music Lessons Experience!

While we are no strangers with conducting our music lessons via video conferencing for our students. some as far as Shanghai. The new measures from the Ministry of Health have effectively forced all our students to have their lessons over video calls! But does this mean the end of the music education industry? Probably not!

video conferencing music lessonsMusic Lessons | The COVID 19 style

Ideally, music lessons should be done in a conducive room with proper instruments and equipment. The acoustics of the room should also be treated properly with professional-grade acoustic treatment walls to remove unwanted reverb and echo. The lighting of the room must be at the right lux level. These are now considered luxuries.

With the current COVID-19 situation, we converted all our music lessons to video conferencing! Though easier said than done, we really wanted the best for our students! Rooms have to be rearranged, workstation setup to match the requirement of video calling and endless troubleshooting. At the end of the day, the smile on our student’s face is what that matters.

With that, we bravely embraced our first day of full-on online lessons today!

video call music lessons

Video-calling problems we faced and how we solve them

We would be lying if we were to say that it went smooth sailing. With all the issues, we had to put all our brains together! Sometimes to the extent of researching through the entire ocean of articles online. So if you are a music teacher, perhaps we might be able to offer some tips!

Audio Troubleshooting

  1. Make sure students always uncheck the “automatically adjust microphone volume” function.
  2. If you are using the laptop’s mic, keep a distance from your device.

Even with the automatic volume adjuster unchecked, a spike in volume will still cause the app to compress the audio hard. As we would have guessed, apps like this are created with speaking in mind. When a loud volume is detected, the app will push it down to prevent the other users from blowing their speakers. We had no issues with Ukulele and Piano but all the trouble with Drumset.

To combat the issue of feeding the drum’s signal in without having a problem, we mic-ed the entire drumset! Signals are sent into a USB audio interface that is then connected to the computer. The microphone source will be the USB device. This allows us to tweak the input volume accordingly. Things will definitely be easier if you have a digital drumset with a USB connection.

Our guitar rooms are also rigged with a USB mixer. As such, we line our electric guitar directly into the mixer with IR technology. We line our acoustic guitar and ukulele into a DI box and speak through a condenser microphone.

Video Troubleshooting

  1. Daylight from windows will help with illuminating the video
  2. Using a decent stand to help with adjusting the camera angle

piano room lightingMost of us hardly use the camera on our laptop, some don’t even know it exists! Some of us live in a dimly lit room and that is bad for video conferencing. So the first requirement is for the student to be able to have decent lighting in their room. While this isn’t an issue with most instruments, this is a common problem with Piano students.

The user back face the room’s light source with the piano to the wall. This results in the shadow of the student to cast on their hands.

Thankfully, solving this is easy! All you need is to place a small table lamp on your piano! This is especially cool on rainy nights when the table lamp is all you turn on to practice your piano with.

 

The camera angle for chatting with your friends or for a business meeting is very different from teaching and learning musical instruments. The laptop-camera was not designed for music lessons in mind. As a teacher, we want to view the students’ playing from a high to low angle. Think of how teachers usually sit next to the student in the room. So the same height and angle are important. As for demonstrating, various instruments require different angles. Piano prefers a top-down angle, guitar prefers a slanted front angle and drum prefers an over the shoulder angle. So the most basic requirement for video music lessons is perhaps a good stand to hold your device. Watch the video posted by Vinnie demonstrating to his students to get a better understanding!

 

Conclusion

Our first day of video conferencing music lessons went fairly smoothly! Classes went on as scheduled without much hiccups. Students were happy and satisfied with the lessons. It gave us the confidence to proceed with more of such lessons! With more fine-tuning, we will be able to provide lessons with even better quality and efficiency!

Normally we ask you to sign for our free trial lesson, we now ask all those who are interested to join us for the music lesson experience of 2020!

piano lesson video call

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