FAQ - Questions & Answers

1) Is prior musical experience necessary? Not at all. Many of our students, both children and adults start as complete beginners. •Lessons are suitable for beginners. •Learning starts from scratch. •Each student follows an individual program. Even if you or your child has never studied music before, you can start confidently with one of our teachers guiding you step by step at a pace that feels comfortable and rewarding. 2) What ages do you teach? •Children 3 to 6 years old in early music education. •Children from 6 to 12 years old with training based on a classical music school curriculum. •Teenagers and adults receive tailored instruction that emphasizes their musical preferences, supporting skill development at any level. •Students preparing for admission to a state music school receive focused preparation. Applicants preparing for entrance to music colleges receive targeted instruction. 3) Is it possible for adults to learn how to play an instrument? Absolutely. Adults often progress quickly thanks to their focus and motivation. Whether you’re learning for fun or pursuing a long-held dream, we will help you get there. 4) What instruments do you offer lessons for? We offer lessons in the following: •Piano •Violin •Guitar •Drums If you’re unsure what is the best fit for you, or your child, we’re happy to help you choose. 5) Can I change my program or direction? Yes, you can change your program or direction of study at any time. If you decide to switch to a different instrument or learning path, we will guide you through the process and help make the transition as smooth as possible, taking into account all the knowledge and skills you have already gained in your previous program. We work closely with every student to discover the learning path that best fits them. Our teachers offer ongoing guidance and are always ready to support both students and families. With regular check-ins to celebrate progress and talk about new interests, we keep students motivated and inspired. You can always reach out to us with questions or to adjust your program. We’re here to help you or your children thrive. 6) Do I need my own instrument? Having an instrument at home is highly recommended for progress. We can advise on suitable options for beginners. •Piano — having an instrument at home is recommended for practice. •Guitar — it is recommended to have your own guitar. •Violin — it is recommended to have your own violin. •Vocal & early development — no instrument required. •Drums - It is recommended to have an electric drum for practice. If you are unsure which instrument to choose, we are here to help! Our team offers friendly consultations to match you with the perfect instrument and your interests and needs. Teachers can suggest options within your budget, point you to places to buy or rent, and even arrange a trial lesson so you can try an instrument firsthand. We’ll support you every step of the way as you find the right musical fit. 7) How much do I have to practice? The amount of practice depends on each student’s individual learning program, physical characteristics, muscle development, and current stage of study. To maintain steady progress and help the muscles remember the correct sensations and movements, we usually recommend practicing for about 1 to 1.5 hours once or twice between lessons with the teacher. At the same time, more practice is not always better. We encourage students not to over practice without guidance from a teacher. Muscles can memorize incorrect movements just as easily as correct ones, and excessive repetition may create unnecessary tension or unhelpful habits. Very often, students try to solve difficult passages simply by repeating them many times, while the real solution lies in focused attention, control of each movement, proper coordination, and understanding the important structural points within the music. Our goal is to help students practice consciously, efficiently, and safely. 8) Are lessons in-person, online, or both? Where do they take place? All of our lessons are held in person at Open Music School, located at Rua de Júlio Dinis 580, Porto, 4050-325. 9) Are there performance opportunities? Yes, we provide students with regular performance opportunities throughout the year. Our academic calendar includes at least one public performance every six months, where each student has the opportunity to take part in a concert program alongside other students. We also include additional performances in our concert programs whenever a student feels ready and motivated to perform. In addition, we collaborate with different concert venues across the city, creating more opportunities for our students to perform in public spaces and cultural events. Students of Open Music School in Porto may also participate in festivals, visiting masterclasses, and international educational projects with our partners in Vienna, Austria, as well as with our Open Music School branch in Bar, Montenegro. Some students may even have the opportunity to perform solo concerts in the Bijela Dvorana concert hall.

1) What is your teaching approach? We combine structured learning with creativity. That means building strong fundamentals while alsoplaying music you enjoy—because progress should feel motivating, not repetitive. 2) How are the lessons conducted? • Individual lessons (piano, violin, vocal, guitar and drums) • Group lessons (choir, early development) Learning begins through practice from the first lesson. We move through the lesson step by step, progressing from simple to advanced. 3) How long is each lesson? Lessons typically last 45 or 60 minutes, depending on the student’s age, level, and goals. 4) Do students follow a set curriculum? We follow an individual approach, because this is where real progress begins. Each student is unique, so we build the learning process around their personality, strengths, goals, and pace of development. Based on these individual characteristics, we carefully structure and systematize knowledge, transforming it into practical skills. Students develop skills they can use naturally and intuitively, supported by a strong theoretical foundation. The curriculum is flexible and adapts to each student, always focusing on meaningful progress and helping them understand the value and purpose of the knowledge they gain. 5) How quickly will I see progress? With regular lessons and practice, most students begin to notice clear progress after approximately 8 lessons. Consistency is key, and we’ll support you every step of the way, helping each student build skills with confidence and understanding. 6) Do students take exams? We prepare students for recognized music exams if they wish, but they’re never required. 7) Are there performance opportunities? Yes, we provide students with regular performance opportunities throughout the year. Our academic calendar includes at least one public performance every six months, where each student has the opportunity to take part in a concert program alongside other students. We also include additional performances in our concert programs whenever a student feels ready and motivated to perform. In addition, we collaborate with different concert venues across the city, creating more opportunities for our students to perform in public spaces and cultural events. Students of Open Music School in Porto may also participate in festivals, visiting masterclasses, and international educational projects with our partners in Vienna, Austria, as well as with our Open Music School branch in Bar, Montenegro. Some students may even have the opportunity to perform solo concerts in the Bijela Dvorana concert hall. 8) What happens in the first individual lesson? The first lesson is a gentle and inspiring introduction to music and instrument. Every session is welcoming and stress-free, helping the student feel comfortable, supported, and excited as they begin their musical journey with us. Lessons are always adapted to each individual student, whether a complete beginner taking their first steps in music, or an experienced player looking to refine technique and deepen musical understanding. Our teachers create a relaxed and supportive environment where students can progress at their own pace, stay motivated, and truly enjoy the learning process. Vocal In the first vocal lesson, the student will: •Discover the possibilities of your voice. •Learn about breathing and vocal production. •Do practical vocal exercises •Sing your favorite song with teacher guidance. •Receive a personalized development plan and your first homework. •Ask any questions about your voice. •Discover how singing can be natural, easy, and inspiring for you! Guitar In the first guitar lesson, the student will: •Assess your musical level through simple, practical tasks. •Get to know the instrument and the basics of sound production. •Practice exercises applying theory in real time •Play your first favorite song or melody. •Suit your schedule. Receive a personalized learning plan based on your goals. •Leave your lesson with your first homework assignment. •Discover that learning how to play the guitar is fun, and possible. Piano In the first piano lesson, the student will: •Get introduced to the instrument and its structure. •Learn the names of keys and registers. •Do exercises to memorize the keyboard •Practice basic finger movements and hand positioning. •Try simple exercises for both hands. •Play your first simple musical phrases. •Practice the coordination of both hands. •Receive teacher feedback and a basic skills check. •Take your first steps toward confident playing. Drum In the first drum lesson, the student will: •Play real songs and grooves from day one •Develop solid timing and coordination •Build confidence behind the drum kit •Improve listening and musical feel •Read drum notation (if desired) •Prepare for graded exams or simply play for enjoyment •Learn, Rock, Metal, Funk, Pop and groove music. Violin: In the first violin lesson, the student will: •Get to know the instrument and explore its possibilities. •Learn how to properly hold the violin and play pizzicato. •Be introduced to the bow and the basic principles of how to hold it and produce sound. •Play your first simple piece, either in pizzicato or using the bow. •Receive a personalized learning plan tailored to your goals and pace. •Leave your lesson with a short and clear homework assignment for practice. •Discover that learning the violin can be both enjoyable and achievable from the very first lesson. If you have a question that is not answered in our FAQ page, please contact us. We are here to help you or your child explore the world of music!

1) At what age can my child start lessons? The starting age depends on the program: •Early music development - 3 to 6 years old •Piano - from 7 years old •Vocal - from 7 years old •Violin - from 5 years old •Guitar - from 9 years old •Drums - from 9 years old Every program is thoughtfully tailored to your child’s age and developmental stage. Little ones explore music through playful games and catchy songs, while older students dive into structured lessons and skill-building. This approach ensures every child learns in a way that feels natural and joyful, sparking a lifelong love of music from day one. Early music development - We have two groups, 3 to 4 year olds and 5 to 6 year old. In their first lesson, your child will: •Get introduced to music in a playful, engaging, and age-appropriate way. • Begin developing creativity and a natural love for music and its variety. • Listen to high-quality music from different genres to develop musical awareness and listening skills. •Explore how music can be not only listened to or sung, but also created through simple improvisation. •Take part in movement and dance activities to develop rhythm and body coordination. Our main teaching goals are: •Developing creative potential. •Building a love for music and its diversity. •Developing musical ear through exposure to different styles. •Encouraging creativity through improvisation •Developing rhythm through movement and dance. 2) How do you keep children engaged? Our lessons are interactive, varied, and fun. We use games, familiar songs, and achievable challenges to keep motivation high. 3) Do you offer any discounts if I have more than one child taking lessons? Yes, we do offer family discounts for students from the same household. We are happy to support families who would like more than one child to study music with us. The exact discount and conditions may depend on the number of lessons and programs chosen, so we recommend contacting us directly for more detailed information. Our desire is to make high-quality music education accessible and comfortable for the whole family. 4) Does my child have to practice at home? The amount of practice depends on each student’s individual learning program, physical characteristics, muscle development, and current stage of study. To maintain steady progress and help the muscles remember the correct sensations and movements, we usually recommend practicing for about 1 to 1.5 hours once or twice between lessons with the teacher. At the same time, more practice is not always better. We encourage students not to over practice without guidance from a teacher. Muscles can memorize incorrect movements just as easily as correct ones, and excessive repetition may create unnecessary tension or unhelpful habits. Very often, students try to solve difficult passages simply by repeating them many times, while the real solution lies in focused attention, control of each movement, proper coordination, and understanding the important structural points within the music. Our goal is to help students practice consciously, efficiently, and safely. 5) Does my child need their own instrument? Having an instrument at home is highly recommended for progress. We can advise on suitable options for beginners. •Piano — having an instrument at home is recommended for practice. •Guitar — it is recommended to have your own guitar. •Violin — it is recommended to have your own violin. •Vocal & early development — no instrument is required. •Drums - It is recommended to have an electric drum for practice. If you are unsure which instrument to choose for your child, we are here to help! Our team offers friendly consultations to match you with the perfect instrument and your interests and needs. Teachers can suggest options within your budget, point you to places to buy or rent, and even arrange a trial lesson for your child so they can try an instrument firsthand. We’ll support you every step of the way as you find the right musical fit.

1) Can I learn just for fun? Of course. Not everyone wants exams and that’s perfectly fine. Many of our adult students learn purely for enjoyment and personal achievement. Do you offer flexible scheduling? We understand busy lifestyles, which is why you pick the best day and time that works for you. We offer a range of lesson times, including evenings where possible. 3) What if I feel nervous about starting? That’s completely normal. Our teachers create a relaxed, supportive environment where you can learn with confidence, no pressure, no judgment. 4) Can I focus on specific goals? Definitely. Whether it’s playing your favorite songs, singing confidently, or preparing for a performance, we’ll shape lessons around your goals. 5) Do I need my own instrument? Having an instrument at home is highly recommended for progress. We can advise on suitable options for beginners. •Piano — having an instrument at home is recommended for practice. •Guitar — it is recommended to have your own guitar. •Violin — it is recommended to have your own violin. •Vocal - no instrument required. •Drums - It is recommended to have an electric drum for practice. If you are unsure which instrument to choose, we are here to help! Our team offers friendly consultations to match you with the perfect instrument and your interests and needs. Teachers can suggest options within your budget, point you to places to buy or rent, and even arrange a trial lesson so you can try an instrument firsthand. We’ll support you every step of the way as you find the right musical fit. 6) How much do I have to practice? The amount of practice depends on each student’s individual learning program, physical characteristics, muscle development, and current stage of study. To maintain steady progress and help the muscles remember the correct sensations and movements, we usually recommend practicing for about 1 to 1.5 hours once or twice between lessons with the teacher. At the same time, more practice is not always better. We encourage students not to over practice without guidance from a teacher. Muscles can memorize incorrect movements just as easily as correct ones, and excessive repetition may create unnecessary tension or unhelpful habits. Very often, students try to solve difficult passages simply by repeating them many times, while the real solution lies in focused attention, control of each movement, proper coordination, and understanding the important structural points within the music. Our goal is to help students practice consciously, efficiently, and safely.