At what age can a person start learning a musical instrument?

It is never “early” or “too late” to start the journey of music. Children can initiate contact with music even at a preschool age. If their physical and mental development allows them to, they can get involved from the age of five.

The earlier one starts learning a musical instrument, the greater opportunity to continue his/her musical studies. Music is a road without an END.

Of course, they should not hesitate to start their music education at a later age. At a late age, learning can be faster because one knows better why he/she started studying music and the instrument chosen. The progress depends solely on the time  devoted to practicing. One thing is certain: it is never too late to do what you love!

How can I determine which is the right instrument for my child?

The best instrument for anyone, is the one they love. Music is a loyal friend, but the student needs time to become familiar with the instrument that he/she picked , in order to  become more confident and to get to know its sounds and melodies. It is not good for anyone to start studying an instrument that they did not choose for themselves or did not want to learn. Even at an early age, it is almost certain that the decision that children make will be based on something they saw or heard and therefore became intrigued. It is preferable to start an instrument that they have chosen, because they will need to devote enough time to study it daily and it needs to be a pleasant experience throughout.

How can I study if I do not have a piano at home?

We realize that due to the high cost or the lack of space, one cannot easily obtain a piano. The “Larnaca Academy of Music” Conservatory offers its students – upon request – the opportunity to study at the conservatory areas completely free of charge.

How fast will I learn to play?

The learning speed in any instrument depends solely on the time the students dedicate to practice. The more time the student devotes, the faster they will progress. The LAM Conservatory’s students follow the syllabus of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) which is designed in 8 Grades (levels – classes), for which there is no predetermined period of study, but only predetermined list of pieces from the international repertoire .

Each student progresses on their own capabilities and the time spent to study. Progress does not depend on anyone other than the student. We believe in the uniqueness of each one who shares with us their time and expectations, therefore we want to provide the highest level of training to achieve the student’s goals.

In case I wish to interrupt my tuition in the middle of the school year, what are my financial obligations?

At the Larnaca Academy of Music Conservatory, every month of study is paid separately and in advance within the first week of each month. If, because of some problem, the student is forced to interrupt their studies before completing the school year, they have the financial obligation to arrange the months they attended. The student is not obliged to pay the months following, as long as he/she gives sufficient notice before the start of the month. If the notification is made during the middle or end of the month, the current month fees are not refundable and ALL the classes remaining until the end of the particular month, will be arranged and completed by the day the student wishes to suspend their studies.

What happens in case of an absence?

The student that misses class due to illness or a force majeure must inform the teacher and the Conservatory at least 24 hours in advance to make the appropriate changes in the schedule. In this case, the class is normally rearranged by the Conservatory. If the student fails to inform the Conservatory, the lesson will not be rearranged.

I like music, however, I am afraid of performing in public. What can I do about it?

Performing in public is the great fear for every musician, from beginners to the most experienced soloists. Our aim here at “Larnaca Academy of Music” is to face this “fear” as early as possible. The only way to overcome this is to move outside your comfort zone and dare  to play in public. During lessons, teachers allow students to attend classes prior to their own, so they feel the presence of a third person. Our students are encouraged to participate in ensembles and small concerts organized at the Conservatory’s premises in the presence of a small audience.

I want to learn music but not classic. Can I choose the repertoire myself?

The Conservatory has the core knowledge of classical music that is undoubtedly the basis for all other types of music.

Our goal is not only to prepare students for the exam. The teaching is not limited to pieces that the student will present at the exam at the end of the year. Nor is it necessary for students to take exams every year. Students can choose between a variety of pieces available in the library of the Conservatory, whatever type and whatever piece they wish to play according to their level. Of course the sound of the notes should reflect their own wishes and feelings.

Whether you are interested in following one of our courses or learn music as a hobby, the “Larnaca Academy of Music” Conservatory is ready to meet and listen to every student and work around their own needs. You just have to decide it!

Why should I choose this particular system? Why follow this education programme?

The conservatory prepares ALL students of ALL CLASSES  based on the examinations’ system and evaluations of the Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) in order to be able to participate in the undoubtedly demanding and INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNISED exams of the ABRSM to achieve their objectives and register their progress. This system is followed with the aim of obtaining diplomas that are OFFICIALLY and INTERNATIONALLY recognized, and therefore open up a range of opportunities.

What are the benefits for a student sitting an exam and passing even some levels?

Obtaining a certificate of success is considered as the reward for the hard work and effort that the student has put in. The music progress can be evaluated in this way. It can also confirm that the student is on the right track. An exam offers:

  • Carefully crafted and appealing repertoire lists towards a predetermined goal, offering motivation and inspiration to continue.
  • A measurement of personal progress and knowledge through an authoritative and internationally recognised system of exams and assessment
  • Improvement of musical skills through an objective syllabus
  • Evaluation by an independent and capable musician, who is highly educated and is constantly supervised
  • Opportunities to demonstrate the musical skills of the student and gain a true feeling of achievement.
  • Naturally, the music exams do not suit everyone. Furthermore, examination programmes do not intend to offer a comprehensive repertoire at the expense of excluding other types of Each music performer should explore a greater range of musical pieces that meet his/her interests and walks of life.