Year 3 Instrumental Scheme
A GUIDE FOR PARENTS - 2025/2026
Introduction
It is hugely important to us that every child has an opportunity to learn a musical instrument. We believe that music enriches the lives of all in our community and that many of the most exciting opportunities in our school lie within the music department. Year 3 is the perfect time to start that journey and through our Year 3 scheme the gateway to this potential is opened for all.
How it works
Students will learn an orchestral instrument, funded by the school, for the whole academic year. We ask for students to choose their preferred orchestral family (woodwind, brass, strings). Once the family has been chosen, our expert msic staff will pair the students with an instrument which best fits their aptitude. Lessons will be delivered in small groups, led by our Visiting Music Teachers in the Seldon music building every Monday morning.
MR TOM TAYLOR DIRECTOR OF PERFORMANCE MUSIC
Why learn a musical instrument?
Music is central to life at Habs, exceptional in both its quality and breadth of opportunity. With over 80 ensembles rehearsing every week, over 30 major concerts per year, and lunchtime performances every week, our musicians are part of one of the most vibrant and diverse music programmes in the country.
The Music School brings together students from both Habs Boys’ and the Girls’ School, drawing from a breathtaking pool of talent and creativity. We visit concert halls in London several times a year, curate projects through recording (most recently at Abbey Road and AIR Studios), collaborate with drama to produce original new work, run music partnership programmes in the wider community, host a range of dedicated courses through our Holiday Programme, and much more.
9 of the last 11 school captains have been musicians. Of the students who have gained a place at Oxbridge, over 80% have been musicians at the school. It is clear what music can do for our students, and what incredible experiences they can draw from being involved – we want to share this with as many students as possible.
Which instruments?
Strings - violin, viola, cello and double bass
Wind - oboe, clarinet, bassoon and flute
Brass - trumpet, trombone and french horn
Tips and tricks
Practice... little and often!
I t’s best to check in with the instrument as often as possible. We recommend 5 minutes per day (every day if possible!), which should be ample to get the most out of these early stages of learning.
Listen and watch
Showing your child videos on YouTube is a great way to get them excited about the instrument. You can also bring them to concerts at the senior school, a nice way to inspire them for what lies ahead.
Practice diary
VMTs will write in a practice diary every lesson, please do check this with your child so they are clear on what they need to do for the next session. In our experience the students who make the best progress are the ones whose parents sit with them to practice. We appreciate that family life is incredibly busy, but if you can be present whilst your child practices this will make an enormous difference.
Keep the faith!
Learning a musical instrument is hard, it is normal for a 7/8-year-old to lose patience or motivation at some point along the way. It is up to us (teachers and parents) to keep the spark alive and remind them of the brilliant opportunities to come.
