Preparatory instrument training
Preparatory instrument training is aimed at 1-3 year olds who are interested in music and already have the skills for a more goal-oriented approach. During the instrumental training, the student’s instrument changes every semester, giving them time to try out two instruments during the academic year. The aim is to find the most suitable instrument for each student to continue learning to play after the instrumental training.
In preparatory instrument training, the student has a weekly playing lesson once a week on Mondays and a group lesson, music workshop, on Wednesdays or Thursdays. In the music workshop, students practice playing together.
The preparatory instrumental training gives the student the opportunity to try out several different instruments before making a final choice. The instrument to be tried out changes every semester. Once a preferred instrument is found, the student can apply for a basic education of arts in that instrument before the age of 10.
The instruments taught in the preparatory instrumental training are:
- Wind instruments: flute, saxophone, trombone, trumpet
- String instruments: electric guitar, electric bass
- Percussion and mallet instruments
>> Get to know the instruments in the preparatory instrument training
Study methods
Group tuition is central to Pop & Jazz Conservatory’s instrumental training. In music coaching, groups are called “musapajos”. The groups rehearse together weekly and perform at concerts and instrumental matinees.
The music workshop lasts 45 minutes and takes place in groups of eight students. The music workshop introduces students to their own instrumental training instrument and band playing, develops interaction skills and creative expression. In addition to playing together, music is explored through playing, singing and movement. Active personal experience of music is essential.
The preparatory instrumental training also includes lessons on the instrument you are trying out, in groups of 2-4 students. Students will receive a six-month loan from the Pop & Jazz Conservatory of the instrument they are taking lessons on.
How to apply for preparatory instrumental coaching
Applications for instrumental coaching are made through an aptitude test.
Registration for the aptitude test is free of charge. Once the application deadline has passed, we will send you an email with the date and time of the aptitude test.
>> Check the application guidelines and apply for the instrumental training.
Aptitude test
The aptitude test for preparatory instrumental training is carried out by two teachers. The applicant is without parents at the time of the aptitude test.The test includes repetition tasks: rhythm tapping and imitation of small melody fragments. In addition, the applicant may sing a song of his/her choice and/or play an instrument if he/she has already learned to play an instrument.
The aptitude test also includes an interview in the form of a conversation. The aim is to find out the child’s own thoughts about music. The aim is to create an atmosphere that is as relaxed and open as possible. Part of the aptitude test is done in small groups.
Teachers who mark the aptitude test will score the task sections according to the table below.
- Rhythm exercises 0-5 points
- Melodic tuning tasks 0-5 points
- Singing sample 0-3 points
- Group task:
– fine motor skills 0-3 points
– gross motor skills 0-3 points
– learning a new thing 0-3 points
– understanding an instrument 0-3 points - Interview, 0-1 points
- Sample with the instrument (optional), no scoring
In the rhythm and melody repetition tasks, points are given for each task if the candidate can repeat the rhythm or melody character he or she hears. In the singing test, points are given according to whether the candidate stays in tune when singing and the musicality of the voice when singing.
The group exercise is divided into several sections, which help to form a picture of what might be the most suitable first instrument and group for the applicant to try out. The scoring of the interview will take into account the impression of the applicant’s motivation and abilities.
Student selection criteria
There are a limited number of student places available. It is possible that an applicant cannot be offered a student place even if all the criteria are met. In such a situation, the applicant will be on the waiting list and, if a suitable group is found, a place will be offered immediately. This can happen at any point in the academic year and does not commit the applicant to accepting a place.
>> Check the application guidelines and apply for the instrumental training.