We have a wide range of after school and lunchtime music clubs available to children of all ages at Lancasterian Primary School. These clubs offer the opportunity to learn to play an instrument and also be part of frequent performance opportunities. Learning to play a musical instrument is both theraputic, great for mental wellbeing and develops links between the left and right side of the brain. Here are 18 positive effects of learning to play an instrument:-

1. Increases the capacity of your memory.
2. Refines your time management and organizational skills.
3. Boosts your team skills.
4. Teaches you perseverance.
5. Enhances your coordination.
6. Betters your mathematical ability.
7. Improves your reading and comprehension skills.
8. Increases your responsibility
9. Exposes you to cultural history.
10. Sharpens your concentration.
11. Fosters your self-expression and relieves stress.
12. Creates a sense of achievement.
13. Promotes your social skills.
14. Boosts your listening skills.
15. Teaches you discipline.
16. Elevates your performance skills and reduces stage fright.
17. Enhances your respiratory system.
18. Promotes happiness in your life and those around you.

Here are some links to the further reading on this subject

Benefits of playing a musical instrument

Can learning the guitar make you more successful?

Here are some visual reminders of what playing an instrument can do for your child and the skills they will acquire

As you can see, playing a musical instrument has many benefits and hopefully that will motivate you to keep on practicing and always hold music in high esteem. Whenever you come across challenges as a musician, think about the end results and always remind yourself of all the great reasons you love to play. Here's an inspiring quote by jazz saxophonist and composer Charlie Parker who once said, "Music is your own experience, your thoughts, your wisdom. If you don't live it, it won't come out of your horn.”

So those are the reasons why it's a great idea for your child to learn to play a musical instrument or join an ensemble. Here is a list of the music clubs currently available at Lancasterian Primary School:-

KS1 & 2 Guitar (Tuesday and Thursday Lunchtimes)

This is primarily aimed at children beginning on the instrument, but children who already play guitar are also very welcome. We will make sure those children are challenged and motivated, through the music we set them and by becoming lead learners. Guitars will be provided, but once you feel your child has got the bug and wants to continue, I can recommend affordable options for buying an instrument. (Club costs £10 per term per child)

KS1 Ukulele (starting lunchtimes- January 2023)

Open to students in Years 2-6, with instruments provided. Once you feel your child has got the bug and wants to continue, I can recommend affordable options for buying a ukulele (Club costs £10 per term per child)

Keyboard

Children learn to play piano keyboard, learning the layout of the notes, scales, melodies, chords, improvising and composing.

Members of the club will take part in various concerts and assemblies throughout the year.

Music Tech Club (Friday lunchtimes)

This club is for those children who love to be creative and want the tech skills to compose their own songs on ipad using Garageband, or even recording real instruments in our home studio! (£10 per term)

We have many lunchtime and after school music clubs, aimed at all age ranges, abilities and interests. The following clubs are currently taking place and your child can join for just £20 per term.

After School Choir (Wednesdays after school)

Open to all children from Year 1 upwards, this is a great club for children who want to develop their singing and improve their performance abilities. We will work on strengthening your child's voice, helping their technique and teach them a variety of songs from many different genres. There will be regular performance opportunities and trips organised, such as the upcoming performance at The Royal Albert Hall in April 2024 as part of the Haringey Music Service show.

KS1 & 2 Guitar Club (Tuesday & Thursday lunchtimes)

This is primarily aimed at children who have had a bit of experience on instrument. We will make sure those children are challenged and motivated, through the music we set them and by becoming lead learners. Guitars will be provided, but once you feel your child has got the bug and wants to continue, I can recommend affordable options for buying an instrument. There will be plenty of opportunities to perform throughout the year.

Year 5 & 6 Music Tech/Rock Band Club (Friday Lunchtimes)

Children will learn to use GarageBand on the ipads to create their own music. We also intigrated a rock band during this session, as so many talented musicians were coming along, so if you already play a musical instrument, feel free to come along and learn songs for various performance opportunites and of course, to become an accomplished musician!

KS2 Samba Drumming (Fridays after school)

This is open to KS2 children, primarily due to the strength required to carry the drums as they are performing. Naturally we are looking for children with a strong sense of rhythm and pulse. This group will become used to performing on a regular basis both in school and at various venues. Regular attendance is therefore a must!

KS2 Samba Drumming (Fridays 3:30 - 4:30pm)

This is open to KS2 children, primarily due to the strength required to carry the drums as they are performing. Naturally we are looking for children with a strong sense of rhythm and pulse. This group will become used to performing on a regular basis both in school and at various venues. Last year they were invited to play at Tottenham Stadium and the Haringey Summer Music Festival. Regular attendance is therefore a must! (£20 per term)

Choir (Thursdays 3:30 - 4:30pm)

The choir is open to children from years 1 - 6. Children will learn great singing technique, performance skills and have the opportunity to sing at many concerts throughout the year, including the Haringey Music Concert at the Royal Albert Hall.