Learning a musical instrument is a rewarding journey for children, but they need support and encouragement at home to help them progress. Parents and guardians don't have to be musical to help a child succeed. Your role in their music education isn't about teaching them how to play—it's about offering your time, presence, and support. Here are some simple but effective ways to help your child make the most of their music lessons.
Make Sure You Understand What's Expected
Even if you're not musical, understand what your child is working on each week. You can ask me for guidance during the lesson and review the notes I provide each lesson. This allows you to help them stay on track, focused, and reinforces the importance of their practice.
Set a Regular Practice Schedule
Consistency is key when it comes to learning an instrument. Work with your child to decide on the best and most regular times for practice. Having a set routine of 5-10 minutes per day, every day, helps them develop discipline and makes practice a natural part of their day. Over time, the length of the practice session will naturally increase.
Be Their Biggest Cheerleader
Encouragement goes a long way! Be positive and supportive, especially when they struggle. Celebrate small wins [mastering a tricky bar, putting a section hands together] and remind them that improvement takes time. Your enthusiasm will help keep them motivated.
Encourage Mini Recitals at Home
Ask your child to perform a "mini recital" for you and clap enthusiastically. You don't need to be an expert to appreciate their progress. Simply listening and showing excitement makes a huge difference. Performing for family members also helps build confidence for future performances and exams.
Review Assignments Together
Take time to review your child's music assignments a couple of times a week. This helps them stay on track and ensures they are practising the correct techniques and pieces. Checking in with them also shows that you value their efforts and progress.
Create a Distraction-Free Practice Space
A quiet, dedicated practice area can make a huge difference. If there is a TV in the room, switch it off or mute the volume, and provide headphones for a digital piano to help them focus and block out any conversations and minimise distractions. This will help make their practice time more effective.
Teach Resilience: It's OK to Have Off Days
Not every practice session will go smoothly, and that's perfectly normal. Help your child understand that mistakes and struggles are part of the learning process. Encourage them to keep going, even on tough days, and remind them that progress takes time. They have already come so far!
Your Time and Presence Matter More Than Musical Knowledge
You don't have to read music, play an instrument, or have any musical background to support your child. Simply sitting with them during practice, showing interest in their progress, and being there for them can be incredibly motivating. Your time and presence show them that their efforts matter, which helps build their confidence and love for music.
For many piano students, working towards a music exam can be a rewarding experience. Over the years I have supported my students in preparing for a variety of exam boards, including ABRSM, Music Teachers' Board (MTB), and RSL.
While exams can offer structure and a sense of achievement, they're not for everyone. Here's my take on the pros and cons to help you decide whether pursuing exams is the right path for you or your child.
Working Towards a Goal: Exams provide clear objectives, motivating students to practice regularly and progress steadily.
Exploring Different Genres: Many exam boards expose students to a variety of styles, from classical to jazz to contemporary compositions.
Technical Mastery: Exercises like scales and arpeggios strengthen understanding of key signatures and improve technical ability, and aural skills develop all-round musicianship.
Sense of Achievement: Receiving a certificate is a tangible reward that acknowledges your hard work and dedication.
Performance and Sightreading Skills: Exams offer opportunities to play prepared and unseen music for others, building confidence in playing not just for yourself, but for an audience.
Performance Anxiety: Playing in front of an examiner on a different piano can be intimidating, as can trying to record your pieces for online submission.
Time Constraints: For students with multiple interests, fitting in enough practice might feel overwhelming.
Cost: Exams are not cheap and the expenses can add up, particularly as fees have increased in recent years.
Specific Materials: Some exam boards require students to purchase specific publications, adding to the cost.
Not for Everyone: Some students may simply not enjoy the structured nature of face to face exams.
Whether you choose to take exams or not, regular practice is essential for progress. The ABRSM provides a helpful guide to the time commitment required for their exams:
Exams can be an excellent tool for some students, offering structure, goals, and recognition of their hard work. However, they're not essential for everyone, and I will never force a student to take an exam. Whether or not you pursue exams, the most important thing is to cultivate a love for music and a consistent practice routine.
I'm here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your musical journey is fulfilling, whether it includes exams or not!
Hello! I’m Laura. A dedicated local piano tutor based in Reedsholme, offering friendly, supportive and tailored lessons that build confidence, and make learning music a truly enjoyable experience—no matter your age or stage.
Have you ever dreamed of playing the piano—whether it’s a lifelong goal or a new hobby in retirement? Or perhaps you’re looking for engaging, enriching lessons for your child? If you live in or around the Rossendale Valley, you’re in the perfect place to start your musical journey.
Over the years I have taught many students in the local area, from Reedsholme, Rawtenstall, Crawshawbooth, Goodshaw, Loveclough, Helmshore, Haslingden, Bacup, Waterfoot and New Hall Hey.
For Adults Starting a New Chapter
It's never too late to start! Whether you're a complete beginner or returning after years, my lessons are tailored for adults. Focused on relaxation, enjoyment, and personal musical interests, you'll be amazed at your progress. Many of my retired students find playing the piano calming, rewarding, and a great way to stay mentally active. Plus, all adult students can join a private Facebook group to share performances, connect with others, and enjoy a supportive community throughout their learning journey.
For Younger Learners
Children thrive with the right teacher and approach. My lessons for kids are fun, varied, supportive, and tailored to their personality and pace. Whether your child is a complete beginner or already plays to a good standard, I focus on building strong foundations, teaching correct technique, boosting confidence, and helping them discover a genuine love for music. I also teach music theory in the most fun way possible—through hands-on games and carefully selected apps. It’s one of the things my students love the most, whether I’m using LEGO figures and a set of music theory cards or a video game-themed game board to make learning exciting and interactive.
What Makes My Lessons Unique?
Friendly, personalised approach – I teach from my calm home studio, where every lesson is thoughtfully tailored to the individual. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all method—each student is unique, and so is the way we learn together. With years of experience and a wide range of resources at my fingertips, I carefully select the most suitable method books and repertoire based on your existing skills, musical tastes, and personal goals. Whether you're aiming to take exams or simply want to play for the joy of it, I’ll create a path that supports and inspires you every step of the way.
Consistent scheduling – I teach Monday to Saturday. To ensure that your musical journey remains consistent and uninterrupted, I offer you a regular weekly or fortnightly slot with lessons all year round. This continuous approach ensures that my students stay engaged, retain their skills, and on track, always progressing at a steady pace.
Supportive and encouraging atmosphere – No pressure, just progress and enjoyment!
Location – Easily accessible from anywhere within 5 miles of Reedsholme, including Rawtenstall, Haslingden, Crawshawbooth, Goodshaw, Loveclough, Helmshore, New Hall Hey, Waterfoot, Weir, Broadley, Bacup, Shawforth, Moss Side, and Todmorden.
What My Students Say
Don't just take my word for it—here's what some of my students and their parents have to say:
"We are so glad we found Laura! She has a lovely manner and is both patient and encouraging. My son is enjoying learning to play the piano more than ever."
"Laura was recommended via a local Facebook group and has now been teaching my 5-year-old daughter piano for 8 months. I cannot recommend her enough. Laura pitches the lessons perfectly for her level of understanding, and my daughter is always totally engaged."
"My son has lessons with Laura; he's a typical busy 6-year-old who doesn't like to sit still or listen. She has him enthralled every lesson. He's been going for 6 months now and has loved every lesson."
"Laura is an outstanding musician and piano teacher. She has unlimited passion for music and her piano, managing to convey it all to me while she teaches me. She is super punctual, her knowledge is wide, and she tailors her classes according to my needs."
"Laura is a brilliant teacher and is very engaging with students and encourages them well. She has lots of fun, creative ways of teaching little ones, including games, colouring, and iPad exercises. My son loves his piano lessons and is making excellent progress."
Ready to Begin?
Whether you're rekindling a passion for music or starting fresh, it's never too late or too early to learn the piano. I'm here to support and guide you every step of the way.
Get in touch today to book your first lesson or have a friendly chat about what you’re looking for.