CYMH
for Years 3+
tuition, musicianship, orchestra, choir, bands and jazz blues
CYMH – Instrumental Programme Years 3+ offers an extensive curriculum including group and individual instrumental tuition, singing, musicianship and ensembles, as well as the Orchestra and Choirs of CYMH, bands and Jazz Blues.
CYMH is divided into the following
Yellow Programme for students in Years 3+
Green Programme for students playing at a Grade 1-3 standard (Split into Green 1 and 2)
Blue Programme for students playing at a Grade 3 level and above
Jazz Blue Programme for students playing at a Grade 3 level and above
Ensemble Programme for students taking instrumental lessons outside of CYMH
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For students in Years 3+ who progress from the Minis programme, or who join the Saturday Programme having learnt an instrument and at a pre-Grade 1 standard.
Children progress towards Grade 1 on their chosen instrument through 40 minute small group lessons and join the Yellow Ensemble/ Choir in which they also continue to develop their theoretical knowledge of music. Elements of general musicianship are incorporated into their instrumental learning and Ensemble/ Choir sessions in a fun and meaningful way to develop their musical communication skills.
Students who are already learning an instrument elsewhere but looking to have fun in a group can join our Yellow Ensemble programme (see ‘The Ensemble Programme’ below).
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For students playing at a Grade 1-3 standard on their instrument who are ready to explore music through ensemble classes. Additional choir, jazz, and theory classes are also offered.
The Green Programme is split into 2 streams: orchestral and pop/rock.
Orchestral instrumental players take part in an ensemble and further develop their large ensemble leadership skills in Yellow ensemble (Green 1) or in the CYMH Orchestra (Green 2), where they play alongside our more advanced Blue Programme students. Students are placed in Green 1 or 2 at the recommendation of ensemble tutors who take their individual skills and needs into consideration.
Pop/rock players are part of our Minors band.
Students receive a 20-minute individual lesson and attend instrumental ensembles which continues to incorporate general musicianship into their musical learning. Students are also able to join the choir and can additionally opt to take music theory or jazz improvisation classes.
Students who already learn an instrument elsewhere, are playing at a Grade 1+ standard, and are looking to expand their group playing can join our Green Ensemble programme (see ‘The Ensemble Programme’ below).
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For students who are playing at a Grade 3 level and above. Entry is by audition.
The Blue Programme is split into 2 streams: orchestral and pop/rock. Where orchestral instrumental players take part in an ensemble and the CYMH Orchestra, pop/rock players are part of our Minors band.
The Blue Programme offers students the opportunity to develop their instrumental studies further at the Saturday Programme with all students receiving a 30-minute individual lesson, small chamber ensembles, the CYMH Orchestra, and choir. They can also opt to take music theory or jazz improvisation classes.
Students who learn an instrument elsewhere, are playing at Grade 3+ standard, and are looking to expand their group playing, can join our Blue Ensemble Programme (see ‘The Ensemble Programme’ below).
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For students who are playing at a Grade 3 level and above who wish to develop an understanding of Jazz. No Jazz experience necessary. Entry is by audition.
This programme is available either with instrumental lessons (30 mins) or as an Ensemble Programme (see ‘The Ensemble Programme’ below). If you wish to continue with your classical training, members of Jazz Blue can also attend Choir, theory classes and the CYMH Orchestra.
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The Ensemble Programme is developed for students who are taking instrumental lessons outside of the Programme.
This programme allows students to participate in ensemble playing to further their musical studies, ensuring that all students are able to experience the most important aspect of being a musician – group music-making and playing alongside other musicians! Ensemble students will take part in all other aspects of the curriculum, meeting and learning from their peers whilst taking part in the applicable Ensemble sessions, as well as the CYMH Orchestra and choir. Students can also choose to opt for additional theory lessons.
The Programmes
Programme lessons
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give students an opportunity to learn an instrument, selecting from a choice of strings, wind, brass, percussion or guitar. They learn in small groups, pairs or individual lessons based upon each student’s programme. The instrumental lessons at Minis, Yellow, Green and Blue levels will incorporate elements of general musicianship through a variety of fun methods helping develop note reading, listening and other musicianship skills.
N.B. Piano is only offered an individual additional lesson.
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continue the practice of encouraging students to play and learn together. Tutors write special arrangements, tailored to both the particular group of instruments and students and choose repertoire which incorporates elements of general musicianship and the means to develop further musical awareness.
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gives both the Blue and Green 2 Programme students the chance to explore a wide range of repertoire, including contemporary music and occasionally new HMDT Music commissions. The Orchestra may also accompany the choir or other performers at some of the HMDT Music’s many performances.
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gives students the opportunity to sing in a choir, developing their ability to use their voice, sing in parts and learn a wide range of vocal repertoire.
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offer Green and Blue Programme students the option to attend additional music theory classes, covering the theoretical basics and helping to build up a fundamental theoretical knowledge. More advanced students will use these sessions to prepare to take their Grade 5 Theory exam and widen their theoretical knowledge in preparation for taking ABRSM Grade 6+ and/or working towards GCSE and A-Level music.
Instruments offered include
Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Bassoon
Trumpet, Trombone
Violin, Cello
Guitar, Drums
Piano (as additional lesson only)
Please note, these may not be available every year for every programme.
“The girls are really progressing with their music and you are all doing a fantastic job of keeping them motivated and engaged! Thank you! ”
“Thanks for all your help and support, we have attended HMDT since A was very small and it’s been really amazing for her in so many different ways.”
“I enjoy performing because it has built up my confidence, because before I would never have dreamt of performing a violin piece in front of a lot of people. ”
“The children have really enjoyed their lessons this past year and have made noticeable progress, not least passing exams. Please pass on our gratitude to the teachers. They have given brilliant guidance and encouragement.”
“I enjoy listening to music which I have made and working in groups with friends. I have learnt the skills needed to play the flute at grade 6 level. ”
Timetable
The times below are for main programme elements only and include breaks. Instrumental lessons will be scheduled outside these hours. Please note that timings are advisory only, and are subject to change.
SATURDAYS
Yellow: 09:40 – 12:30
Green: 09:40 – 13:30
Blue: 09:40 – 13:30
Jazz Blue: 09:00 – 11:30
After CYMH…
CYMH can lead young people to the Julian Joseph Jazz Academy
Enabling under 4s to explore basic rhythms and melodies and helps parents gain the confidence to experiment and enjoy music making with their children.
A one year Foundation Course for reception class children, an introduction to music through singing and movement, leading up to performances at the end of each term.
The Minis prepares Year 1 and Year 2 children for both music theatre and instrumental studies through a fun, structured 2-year programme.
Music Theatre School for students in Years 3 – 13 offering students the opportunity to experience the excitement of musical theatre training and performance.
HMDT’s Instrumental School offers students ages 5 upwards an extensive curriculum including group and individual instrumental tuition, singing, musicianship and ensembles
Offering talented young instrumentalists and vocalists an amazing opportunity to work with some of the world’s top jazz musicians
A new method of integrating music therapy into regular activity for Students with SEN/D needs
Home of The Saturday Programme
HMDT Music, twice winner of the prestigious Royal Philharmonic Society Award for Education and winner of the Excellence in Music Theatre Award is a leader in creating inspiring projects for young people, particularly those facing challenging experiences, through which it aims to enrich learning, broaden awareness of and help fight inequity and transform lives.