Question 1

How much do classes cost?

Accepted Answer

The annual contribution is $210 per class for the year. Classes are heavily subsidised by the Ministry of Education. Instrument hire is additional: violins $80/year, cellos $100/year.

Question 2

When and where are classes held?

Accepted Answer

All classes are on Saturday mornings at Dyer Street School, 9 Dyer Street, Lower Hutt, between 8:30am and 12:30pm. Each class is 30 minutes long.

Question 3

What age does my child need to be?

Accepted Answer

Most instrument classes start at age 7. Music Basics is for ages 5–6. Recorder & Ukulele starts at 6.5, trumpet at 8+, and flute at around 9+.

Question 4

Does my child need their own instrument?

Accepted Answer

Students are expected to have an instrument to play at home and bring it to class each week. Gallery Music Centre has violins available for hire ($80/year) and cellos ($100/year). Tutors can advise on purchasing guitars, keyboards, ukuleles, and drum practice pads. Trumpets and flutes can be hired from Lower Hutt music shops. Recorders are an inexpensive first instrument ($25 or less).

Question 5

How are class placements decided?

Accepted Answer

Priority goes to students who have done music basics, then to siblings of existing students and families from Dyer Street School. Students will be placed in the class best suited to their level.

Question 6

Is there a waitlist?

Accepted Answer

Some classes (especially keyboard and drums) have waitlists. Beginners can only start instrumental classes in February each year. Choir, orchestra, ensemble and music basics can be joined at any time.

Question 7

What is the annual concert?

Accepted Answer

Gallery holds an annual concert (usually in Term 3) where students perform for family and friends.

Question 8

How do I enrol?

Accepted Answer

Email gallerymusiccentre@gmail.com to receive the enrolment link, or for more information.

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