Composition

Music Theory

Piano

Composition

Composition lessons are available for pupils who wish to explore the creation and development of their own musical ideas, plus advanced level and early-career composers seeking professional guidance and mentorship.

In addition to examining the aesthetic and technical aspects of composition, students are encouraged to listen to a wide variety of musical styles, particularly major works from the C20th and C21st such as those given in the Listening room alongside pursuing their own imaginative, creative ideas and vocabulary at the piano, or, related technology in the case of electronic music.

Students pursuing composition lessons as part of their GCSE or A-level coursework are strongly encouraged to typeset their work using Sibelius software or produce a neatly handwritten fair copy in either pencil or ink, in addition to seeking performance and recording opportunities of developed sketches and completed works.

Learning resources for students undertaking music theory tuition can be accessed here.

Music Theory

As instrumental and vocal skills progress, development in music theory and musicianship becomes increasingly important in helping students to perform with greater sensitivity, understanding and confidence.

Pupils undertaking ABRSM grades in music theory explore Music Theory in Practice and the newer Discovering Music Theory workbooks for grades 1-5, alongside The AB Guide to Music Theory Part 1 textbook by Eric Taylor. When the workbook for the relevant grade is finished a series of past papers must then be completed and passed by the student before entering the exam. To provide a more candidate-friendly experience, ABRSM have moved the assessment of Music Theory at grades 1 to 5 to an online exam. Pupils undertaking ABRSM Grades 6-8 in music theory pursue each Theory Workbook for the relevant grade in conjuction with Part 2 of The AB Guide to Music Theory and additional materials such as published scores and recordings.

Music theory students pursuing Grades 1 to 5 are also encouraged to explore ABRSM Music Theory Trainer. This touchscreen app brings music theory tests to life through fun and engaging exercises, but also serves as a fantastic resource for students in the revision process.

Learning resources for students undertaking music theory tuition can be accessed here.

Further information about Music Theory exams is available from the ABRSM website:

About Music Theory exams

Music Theory Guidance

Practice resources for Music Theory Grades 1 to 5

Piano

New piano pupils of all ages and abilities are very welcome, from beginners through to advanced level players, plus those choosing to learn for their own enjoyment.

Current publications used for beginner and elementary piano students include ABRSM Piano Star Books 1-3, along with Chester's Easiest Piano Course Book 1 by Carol Barratt, aimed at very young learners. The popular 'introduction to reading music' and 'beginner piano exercise' worksheets created by Dulwich Piano Lessons may also be used in the early stages of tuition.

Following the ABRSM Prep Test and Grade 1 exam, pupils explore a variety of established publications including For Children by Bartok and The Young Pianist's Repertoire (selected by Fanny Waterman and Marion Harewood), plus ABRSM anthologies including Encore, Piano Mix, A Keyboard Anthology and the Spectrum series, featuring much-loved pieces from the piano repertory alongside modern music and works by living composers.

FAQ

How are online piano lessons delivered?

FaceTime, Skype and Zoom are used by Dulwich Piano Lessons to provide online tuition and remote learning. Students are requested to place their smartphone, tablet, laptop or computer at one end of the piano and at a suitable distance from the instrument so that the fingers, hands and posture are all clearly visible on the screen.

Do I need to buy a piano before starting lessons?

A portable keyboard such as the Yamaha PSR-E373 is suitable for absolute beginners, however a digital piano with weighted keys or an acoustic upright instrument will be required when progressing towards ABRSM Grade 1 standard.

Dulwich Piano Lessons recommends the Yamaha P-145 as a suitable, much-favoured digital piano for elementary pupils. Details of other keyboards and digital pianos can be explored at the Yamaha London website and store in Central London.

Good-quality upright pianos can be obtained secondhand for those who do not wish to purchase a brand new instrument. Another option for students who wish to practice or receive their lessons on an acoustic piano is to hire an instrument from a piano rental firm, or to hire a studio space that provides an acoustic instrument.