Here you'll find answers to many of the questions you might have about the BYMT, how it works and what its rules and policies are.

If there are other questions you would like answered, please call us on 020 8467 1566, email us at contact@bymt.co.uk or use the form on the Contact page to send your question.

What does the BYMT offer tuition on?

Currently tuition may be offered on the following : violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, percussion, piano, harpsichord, harp, guitar, recorder, accordion and singing.

What are the fees for lessons?

LESSON FEES SEPTEMBER 2011 – JULY 2012:

• £47.00 per term for individual 10 minute lessons OR 2 sharing a 20 minute lesson OR 3 sharing a 30 minute lesson
• £70.50 per term for individual 15 minute lessons OR 2 sharing a 30 minute lesson
• £94.00 per term for individual 20 minute lessons
• £141.00 per term for individual 30 minute lessons.

Whilst fees for lessons and instruments are set at a competitive rate, the Trust operates a remission policy in certain circumstances.

Fees for lessons will not be credited for non-attendance unless adequate notice has been given. There will be no refund or credit for holidays taken by children during the school term. 'Adequate Notice' is sufficient time for the teacher to re-arrange their timetable so they are not left with a gap in the middle of their time on that day.

Where does the teaching take place?

Mostly in school during the school day. However as pupils progress to GCSE and A level courses they may need a longer lesson of perhaps 45 minutes or an hour. There is then the opportunity for lessons to take place at BYMT but only upon recommendation by the teacher. Some more uncommon instruments are also taught at the Centre including Double Bass, Bassoon and Tuba.

How many lessons do I get for my money?

There will be a minimum of 30 weekly lessons per year. This does not necessarily mean 10 per term, as some terms are longer than others.

Is there a minimum length of time that a pupil will be taken on for?

Pupils will only be accepted for a minimum of two terms although teachers may advise cessation of lessons after one term if the child is not making satisfactory progress.

Are instruments available for hire?

A certain number of instruments are available for hire from the Trust for which a fee is payable. These include violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, oboe,clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium and tuba.

HIRE CHARGES for BYMT INSTRUMENTS:

£38.00 per term to hire a violin, 1/2 size or smaller. £49 per term to hire any other instrument. There will be no charge to pupils receiving remission of fees.

What about accessories?

Music and accessories such as strings, rosin and reeds must be purchased by parents. Teachers will be able to advise parents on the best shops to visit.

What do I have to do if I want to discontinue lessons?

If your child wishes to discontinue lessons, notice must be given to the instrumental teacher in writing by half term to take effect from the end of that term. Failure to follow this procedure will result in a term's fee being charged in lieu of notice. A full term's fees are payable to the teacher if notice is given at the end of one term or at the start of another . They will have budgeted their income expecting to teach your child.

The Trust reserves the right to discontinue lessons.

How do I know which is the right instrument for my child?

It is best to expose children to as many different instruments as possible and then to pursue any interest they have. Violin and piano lessons can be taken from the age of 6 in schools. Other instruments are usually taught from the age of 8 or 9 depending on the individual teacher and child.

What do I do if I can't afford lessons or ensembles?

Please contact BYMT who may be able to help in certain circumstances.

Can you recommend private teachers in the area?

Unfortunately not. We are a base for the instrumental tuition that goes on in schools of the London Borough of Bromley and therefore cannot recommend teachers for lessons at home.

Is it necessary for piano pupils to have a piano to practise on at home?

Yes.

Will a keyboard do?

A piano is preferable, but a keyboard is acceptable provided that it has at least 4 octaves (48 keys), and the keys are full sized i.e. the same size as piano keys. The keys should be touch sensitive, which means that the pianist can alter the volume according to the speed at which the key is depressed.