Singing Lessons for Kids

The elevator doors part sideways as I arrive at my designated level. A pair of elegant glass doors stands about ten feet away, glistening in the afternoon sunlight. A large crimson signboard hangs above the glass doors, boldly emblazoning the words Juzmusic: excite, enrich, enjoy. First started in 2006 to sustain a growing public interest in music, the school has since established a steady clientele through its unique excite, enrich, enjoy approach to teaching the subject. The school’s motto is to be excited, enriched and enjoy(sic) music in a fun and engaging way, says Ms Joey Lye, principal of the school and owner of the establishment, This is what I feel about music, and what music teaching is really all about. Indeed, the school does have a reputation of producing top scorers in the ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) examinations. A long list of names of students who have achieved merits and distinctions are proudly displayed upon the school’s notice board. A welcome whiff of cool air greets me as I enter the premises. The metal chimes that are hung near the doors tinkle merrily, announcing my entrance. The receptionist gives me a polite smile as I survey the interior. Soft yellow lights from the ceiling bulbs shine on red carpet floors, creating a cozy ambience. The walls are draped in pale yellow hues, with minimal decor. A bright orange faux wall situates directly behind the receptionist’s counter, displaying a delicate glass signboard. An unadorned chandelier droops from the side of the ceiling, adding a classy touch to the place. As Joey puts it: Simple and clean; eye-catching, yet nothing too fanciful. This is my personal taste. How apt. Skipping past the reception to the small alleyway by the side, I see a row of doors leading to individual music rooms. I stop on the first door on the left. Peeking through the window, my eyes immediately focus onto a crowded early-childhood class in progress. Everyone is seated on the floor. A teacher lays out various colorful flash-cards and engages the children’s participation. The children seem to be paying close attention; though there are few who look distracted. Several grown-ups, presumably the parents and guardians, are seen trying to encourage their children to get more involved in the activities. Our curriculum is based on an extensive survey of research related to the development of music cognition in young children. Our activities are designed in an imaginative and progressive manner so as to stimulate the minds of young children. As children learn to speak before they learn to write, we present our classes in the same way. We use a multi-sensory approach which involves singing, playing, moving, listening and watching. Music Literacy is presented in a developmentally appropriate sequence through songs, games, flash cards, movements and exploration of instruments, Joey explains. Keyboard knowledge is also introduced. I take a glimpse again. True enough, I spot a row of sleek digital pianos aligned at the far corners of the room. The digital pianos are used in the early-childhood classes because the size and touch of a regular upright piano may be too intimidating for children, Joey tells me, Due to the structure of the digital piano, it allows more eye-contact with the teacher, thus the children can learn better. I learn from her that group classes are kept relatively small, between 5 to 8 students maximum to make learning more conducive. We don’t believe in making more money from big classes. Small group-classes aside, Joey is also particular over the quality of teaching. Being an accomplished musician herself (she holds a Masters degree in music), she ensures that the teachers have the relevant qualifications and experience that are needed to educate others. screen each prospective teacher on whether they love teaching, be around with children and people of all ages, and whether they have a pleasant personality, she relates to me. Most importantly they must have to right attitude to teach. I hear some tinkling of the ivories in another room and walk over to take a look. Peeking through the window, I see a young girl sitting at the piano struggling to sight-read, while the teacher sitting beside is patiently helping her out. I ask Joey if she takes similar measures with students. Each student has an initial interview with me before the commencement of lessons. There is a discussion of progress with the teacher every half yearly, and setting of new targets, she replies, we also have a written progress report for students every year. And she sums it up, the combination of communication, good quality lessons, student effort and family encouragement will make music lessons fun and enriching. As we turn to head back to the reception, I find out from Joey if the school organizes any other activities other than the mainstream education that makes music-learning an enjoyment. We hold an inaugural concert every year, at various places, she informs me. It gives the students an additional goal to look forward to besides taking exams. For the parents and guardians, it is a chance to see their children shine. Apart from the concert, Joey also tells me that there are small rehearsal groups and music-sharing parties that are organized to help students get more drawn into music. We soon emerge from the alleyway and I spot an adult student waiting for his lesson to commence. Immediately I take the opportunity to ask him about his experiences with the school. He agrees, but only on the condition of anonymity. My lesson is pretty interesting because my teacher treats me as an equal. Nearing the end of each lesson, she challenges me to carry out my own research on a topic as homework, while she does her own research as well. In the next class, we compare our results and learn from one another. He must have seen the look of surprise on my face because he elaborates further. I remembered one occasion, my teacher disputed my claims on a particular topic, but I managed to argue my case across. In the end, she was convince by my argument. That gave me some satisfaction. I leave him basking in his personal glory. It is getting late, so I thank Joey for her time and bid her farewell. As I exit through the glass door, the metal chimes tinkle again, signaling my departure. I head for the elevator and leave the place. As I step into the glaring sunlight, the quote from Leo Tolstoy comes into mind: music is the shorthand of emotion. Pondering over Joey’s words, I finally realize the school’s philosophy: to let music excite the senses, enrich the mind, and ultimately, to enjoy the experience.

- Jerry Mok, a Diploma Student

My daughters are in their good hands.

- Mrs. Tang (parent)

Iris is enjoying her Violin lessons so much that I don’t have to push her to practice with her pieces.

- Mrs. Mackenzie (parent)

I’ve always loved playing the Cello. There is a distinct joy that I always find whenever I am playing with it. That is why I am very thankful with Juzmusic Academy, for furthering my skills and techniques with the instrument that I really think highly of.

- Ms. Tomoko Ami (student)

It is in Juzmusic where my son has learned to enjoy his music lessons. The good thing about Juzmusic is that they don’t just teach but they impart the love of music which made my son improved tremendously.

- Mrs. De Guzman (parent)

Baby @maelethsarah has attended her fourth class at @juzmusicacademy at Parkway Centre, and we noticed visible improvements in her again as compared to last lesson. She allowed her music teacher Ms. Loh to hold her hand to guide her in playing the xylophone, picked up the egg-shaped maracas from the egg tray that was offered by Ms. Loh, and she enjoyed the book reading segment as always, actively participating in opening the flaps of the book to reveal the hidden animals! Mae also interacted with her classmate "Yanni" and was trying to touch her arm and face but the way she did it could be gentler (we\'ll work on that!). These classes are great opportunities for Mae to develop her social interaction skills as she is mostly at home without any peers to interact with. We are happy with Mae’s progress in class. With every single class, there is visible improvement! Thank for the wonderful experience, Juzmusic!

My son has been studying in Juzmusic Academy or years and looking at my child’s progress, I would definitely recommend the school to my friends or to any parent who is looking for a perfect music school for their child

- Mr. Chan (parent)

Teacher Catherine is a wonderful teacher. She is very patient. My daughter is comfortable with her. I am very glad that she is Bena's teacher. The school is well organized. All the teachers and staff are friendly.

- Mdm. Hanako Ishiguro (parent)

I learn a variety of pieces. It is well-paced and planned out. Ms. Lye gives good feedback and builds on my weaknesses. I feel like there is improvement every time. The school has good teachers and gives individual attention to each student.

- Mitali Kothari (student)

Classes are always challenging and fun as there is always something to look forward to. My teacher is very encouraging and patient. She is very dedicated and loves what she does. The school is encouraging and provides opportunities for students to participate in recitals and concerts.

- Lai Ann (student)

Teacher Juraimi is always enthusiastic and that undoubtedly rubs onto the child. I appreciate the fact that he works closely with parents to understand the child's strengths and aspirations to better steer the child towards success.

- Clarence Chan (parent)

Classes are very fun and enjoyable, I enjoy coming for my lessons! I Like my teacher! She is very friendly and cheerful all the time. The school provides a really nice environment for learning music.

- Yew Huixin, Charlotte (student)

Ms. Loh is a very dedicated teacher who possesses the patience and that "special touch\" to be able to connect with her young students, making things easy for them to understand and maintain their interest. The recitals are useful to build the children's confidence.

- Mdm Tracy Thia (parent)

Pace for exam is excellent, never too rushed or relaxed. Classrooms are cosy and well equipped. Teacher Ermina is helpful and always encouraging and kind. School has very helpful admin staff. Juzmusic also provides specialized Aural lessons for exams.

- Lua Aun Wee (parent)