A group instrumental lesson

Many instrumental lessons, particularly those offered through LEA/DfES funded music services, will teach pupils in groups. Although some parents of highly talented children and teachers may be concerned about the effectiveness of such provision, the quality of teaching and learning of pupils taught in such groups is often high, particularly in the early stages, up to and including intermediate levels, with many pupils achieving high standardsvi. Also, attention may need to be paid to those extrovert children with talent who may wish to be taught in groups. Inevitably, as pupils progress there will be a need to teach them individually, in order to develop higher order technical skills. In addition, the 'one-to-one' empathic relationship that can develop between pupil and teacher becomes increasingly important and critical if the pupil is to progress.

In such group tuition sessions, a teacher will differentiate in a variety of ways. For example, a talented pupil may act as a role model for the others in the group by demonstrating musical points, by leading in part work, by conducting the group or by playing a more complex or advanced part. Well-planned teaching will also ensure that the music is written in parts allowing for varying levels of difficulty and challenge for all in the group. There will also be planned opportunities for them to develop their compositional and improvisational skills through performance work in the group. This may create a need for teachers to expand their repertoire to include world music, popular music and jazz improvisational styles, as well as pupils' own compositions, as these may offer additional scope for the development of the memory.

To the instrumental teacher, supporting the talented pupil may pose some difficulties in lessons. For example, if a teacher is too rigid in planning, relying solely on examination repertoire, and is unable to supplement work with creative activities such as composing and improvisation, those pupils with exceptional talent may become de-motivated and bored. Ultimately, lessons should offer flexibility, be encouraging and be enjoyable.