Are you an adult thinking about picking up an instrument for the first time, or for the first time in many years? If so, you’ll join a growing number of adults who are enjoying music tuition at GAM. Most lessons take place on Saturdays, and in the evening after the end of the school day, although some of our tutors offer day-time lessons, which could be a good option if you work flexibly, or are retired. Three of our adult learners explain what they gain from playing music. Find out more about individual lessons on our website.

Catherine Webster – euphonium

What prompted you to start euphonium lessons?

My children came to GAM between 2009 and 2021; one played the cello and one the French horn. I saw first hand how much fun they had playing and decided I’d like to pick up an instrument myself. It took a few years to muster up the courage and commitment but I’m so glad I did.

I first started playing in a local training brass band but wanted specialist individual lessons, which I then found I could get at GAM. I needed that 1:1 focus. 

What are your goals with learning the euphonium?

I had no desire to work towards grades, just to play purely for the enjoyment of it, use the bits of my brain that wouldn’t be used otherwise and to become confident and competent enough to play in a group.

Have you played an instrument before?

I played recorder from age 5 and then progressed to clarinet aged 11-14. I also played violin for a few years before I decided to prioritise growing my nails as a teenager! I had lessons in school but eventually the timetable didn’t allow getting out to music lessons. There was no orchestra at school, so I played on my own. I didn’t play anything after 14.

Is there anything about learning an instrument that you think is harder or easier as an adult than as a child?

I just absorbed music when I learned as a child and it’s never going to be as easy as that as an adult, but learning now is very satisfying. 

As a child I didn’t particularly enjoy my lessons. They were joyless and I didn’t have an affinity with my clarinet teacher, or with the sound of the clarinet. I really like the sound of the euphonium and, I think the phrase ‘it’s the cello of the brass world’ is true.  I also now have a great teacher!

What do you think are the advantages of learning an instrument face-to-face with a teacher, rather than online?

I just prefer face-to-face lessons. I did a bit of online learning during Covid, but the sound and interaction isn’t the same. My teacher is Pete Richards, who is knowledgeable, innovative and enthusiastic, and makes learning fun but just challenging enough. He accepts that I don’t have great musical ambitions and teaches with patience and humour, which is a great fit for me. However, I’m sure he would also be an excellent teacher if I wanted to push on more. 

What would you say to an adult reading this who is considering learning an instrument for the first time, or after a gap of time? 

Absolutely go for it! Do it for fun, don’t put yourself under any pressure. What have you got to lose?! Music is one of life’s riches, so it would be mad not to have it in your life! 

I’ve always found GAM a good fit for me and for my children. It’s a very warm and welcoming place to come, and you can learn at whatever level and pace you choose. 

Maxine Taylor – piano

What prompted you to start piano lessons?

About five years ago I thought about doing piano lessons, but I didn’t own a piano. It was only last year when my husband bought me one for my birthday that I investigated having lessons. A friend of mine told me about GAM, where she’d been having euphonium lessons.

Have you played an instrument before?

I hadn’t done any music since I learnt the recorder at primary school -and I’m now 62.

What are your goals with learning the piano?

I’m doing it for pleasure and because I was looking for something that would be brain-stimulating. There’s dementia in my family, so I want to keep my brain as active as I can.

Is there anything about learning the piano that you think is harder or easier as an adult than as a child? 

I’ve found learning as an adult incredibly challenging. Joe’s very patient and reassuring.

What do you think are the advantages of learning an instrument face-to-face with a teacher, rather than online?

The first time I walked into GAM, I started thinking how inspiring it was to hear all the people practising, it was a thrill! There’s something lovely about being present, and not on your own at a screen. I can ask Joe questions that are personal to me, which you can’t do with online lessons.

What would you say to an adult reading this who is considering learning an instrument for the first time, or after a gap of time? 

My advice would be definitely to go for in-person lessons, if you’ve got the time and can afford to do it. It gives you a sense of motivation.

Amy Evans – flute

What prompted you to start flute lessons?

From a young age, I had always admired friends, family and acquaintances who played an instrument. I loved everything about the flute – its sleek look, and its captivating sound. During the pandemic and restrictions, we had more time at home, and I felt it was the perfect time to start a new challenge. My youngest daughter expressed an interest in learning the flute, so we began lessons at the same time.

Have you played the flute before?

I had never played/owned a flute before. However, when I was 10, my best friend lent me her flute for the afternoon. I tried in vain to produce a sound of some sorts, then swiftly realised how hard it was! 

Do you have any previous/other experience of music?

I sing in the Church music group and at school I had a handful of free recorder lessons (it was a lunchtime club provided by a teacher). 

What are your goals with learning the flute?

I think it’s important for our health and happiness that we continue to learn throughout our lives. I love playing the flute at home on my own, and also with my daughter. We are learning together and supporting one another. Our relationship/bond is stronger as a result. 

What do you gain from learning the flute?

I have a greater understanding of music composition. 

What do you enjoy most about learning the flute?

Mastering a piece over a period of weeks/months. 

Is there anything about learning the flute that you think is harder or easier as an adult than as a child? 

When I was a child, I often felt that I couldn’t ask questions. I never admitted that I didn’t fully understand a concept and I was too scared to ask for more time/support. At school, I loved playing the recorder, but I couldn’t sight read and this, in turn, made me lose my self-confidence and eventually I dropped out of lessons. 

Now, I’ll happily ask for clarification and extra support. As a result, I’m making steady progress and mastering new skills. 

What do you think are the advantages of learning an instrument face-to-face with a teacher, rather than online?

If I only learnt at home, I would certainly skip some lessons and not make such rapid progress. Face to face lessons make me feel accountable. They are fun and I’m guided smoothly through the process. The diagrams and information in a music book isn’t always clear. My flute teacher is able to provide a tips and model correct techniques. 

What would you say to an adult reading this who is considering learning an instrument for the first time, or after a gap of time? 

Take the leap. You won’t regret it. Learning an instrument is extremely fulfilling.