The WELB Music Service through a team of qualified Instrumental tutors.
How does my child qualify?
- Child attends a school where tuition is available
- Assessment of musical aptitude at the end of Key Stage 1
- Selection made following discussion between Instrumental tutor and School
- Tutor assessment for suitable instrument
Which instruments are taught?
All Orchestral and Band Instruments. Some schools may only receive certain groupings of instruments – for example, Strings, Woodwind or Brass.
Does my child have to have his or her own instrument?
If your child is selected for tuition, an instrument may be provided by the Board, your child's school or through our assisted purchase scheme.
Can my child choose to play a particular instrument?
The choice is dependent on the availability of tuition at his/her school.
What happens if the WELB instrument/case is lost or damaged?
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Any damage must be reported immediately to the tutor and the instrument/case (or bow) presented for examination. If this damage is not the result of normal wear and tear, parents will be liable to reimburse the Board for any necessary repairs and labour costs
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The WELB will arrange for all necessary repairs to instrument/case. Students should not make any such arrangements themselves.
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In the event of loss or theft of instrument/case, parents must notify the Board immediately in writing. Parents will pay to the Board the replacement value of the instrument/case as determined by the Head of Music.
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Any instrument received on loan must not be played by a third party, or allowed to go out of the possession of the borrower.
- Musical instruments - all risks insurance at British Reserve, telephone 0870 240 0303
- Home insurance
NB The WELB does not carry any insurance for instruments given on loan.
Do I have to pay for lessons if my child is selected?
The WELB Music Service requires a contributory charge from all schools in receipt of the Service, which may be passed on to the parents. There is also a loan/maintenance fee of £32.00 per annum in respect of each instrument on loan from the Music Service.
(For complete list of fees please refer to the Table of Charges
on the website www.welb-musicservice.com)
Those pupils entitled to Free School Meals are exempt from these charges. However all pupils will be required to pay for:
• Music and Accessories
• Examination Fees
• Theory and Aural Classes
• Membership of Senior Ensembles
Where do the lessons take place?
Usually in schools. Pupils receiving tuition who transfer to a school where tuition is not available may be offered a lesson at the nearest Music Centre.
When do the lessons take place?
Once a week, during school hours or after school hours in a Music Centre.
What is expected of my child if s/he is offered tuition?
• Regular daily practice
• Regular attendance at lessons
• Commitment to Music Service and School Ensembles
• Care of the instrument
What is expected of me as a parent if my child is offered tuition?
- Support and encouragement for your child's music making at home, in school and through Music Service activities.
- Weekly monitoring of practice and signing of pocket practice book.
How will I know how my child is progressing?
Progress can be monitored through:
• Pocket Practice Book
• Annual Parent/Teacher Evenings
• Annual Reports
• Communication via your child's Instrumental Tutor
• Examination Results where applicable
Can my child's tuition be stopped?
- We are always conscious of the demand for places and therefore tuition is carefully monitored to ensure that pupils are taking full advantage of the service we provide.
- If progress, attendance at lessons, or aptitude are not satisfactory, lessons will be discontinued.
- For professional reasons, pupils may not receive tuition on the instrument from another tutor.
- Attendance at Senior ensembles, when selected, is compulsory.
- Continuation of tuition cannot be guaranteed if your child moves to a school where tuition is not already provided, or to a school outside the WELB area.
- Failure to abide by any aspect of WELB Music Service policy may result in termination of tuition.
Will my child be able to join a Music Service orchestra or band?
- Participation in ensembles forms an important part of a child's musical development.
- Your child will be able to join an Orchestra or Band provided an acceptable standard is reached and places are available.
- Prior approval must be obtained from the Music Service if instruments are to be used for courses or public performances other than those organised by the Board or the School.
- When selected for an ensemble, your child should be strongly encouraged to attend all rehearsals and concerts.
Will my child be entered for an exam?
- Exams are not compulsory, but they serve as a useful indicator of progress.
- Entrance for examinations will be by tutor recommendation only.
- The Music Service uses the examinations of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music and Trinity Guildhall London. Exams are available from beginner to diploma standard.
- Pupils are also prepared for theory exams and for GCSE AS and A Level practicals
Where can I get further advice or information?
Your school may be able to help, or you may contact the Music Service at the following address:
Mrs Mairead Gallagher / Mrs Majella Gallagher
Derry Music Centre
c/o Londonderry Model PS
Northland Road
DERRY
BT48 7HJ
Telephone: 028 7126 2312
Fax: 028 7137 7069
mairead_gallagher@welbni.org / majella_gallagher@welbni.org
Mrs Mairead Gallagher / Ms Elise Monaghan
Omagh Music Centre
1 Spillar's Place
OMAGH
Co Tyrone
BT78 1HL
Telephone: 028 8225 3689
Fax: 028 8224 6716
mairead_gallagher@welbni.org / elise_monaghan@welbni.org
All information correct at time of publication
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