Sussex Music Teachers was founded in 2014 and is currently based in (/previously based in) 15 Primary/Secondary/Infant Schools across the County.
The aim is to offer contemporary, fun, affordable and rewarding instrument lessons for young people throughout Schools who haven't had such opportunities
Through peripatetic group lessons (on average 3-4 persons per group) and one to one lessons, founder Nick Webb has built an original and exciting programme which fits alongside National institutions such as the RGT (Registry of Guitar Teachers) National Curriculum and exam boards (GCSE Music)
The aim of Sussex Music Teachers is..
- Inspire young people to learn and pursue a musical instrument
- Gain confidence through learning a musical instrument
- Promote every educational and social benefit music has to offer.
- Offer lessons in catchment areas overlooked by other services, often due to deprivation.
- Ensure every child has an opportunity to learn an instrument regardless of their financial circumstances (through working with Schools and by pursuing funding)
How lessons are structured?
Groups lessons are typically half an hour long and students get the chance for individual playing / focus as well as learning to play within the group
We have divided our lessons into 6 levels of difficulty. Colour grades. (Think Karate) . With each grade, new techniques are explored, theory digested and songs played!
Musical genres - We offer a wide range of musical genres - rock, pop, blues, funk, folk, festive, soundtracks and also tailor lessons to a child's interests when they find their niche.
Reading Music - In guitar lessons we have sight reading exercises from the yellow grade onwards (3rd level) . Otherwise we read tablature. The most popular way to read guitar music and advance on the guitar.
Practice - We encourage practice but we have to practice patience. We will never force anyone to practice or shame them for not doing so. We will only positively encourage them (sometimes through rewards such as certificates or stickers)
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About Nick Webb (Founder)
Nick has been playing the guitar and writing music for 20+ years. Since then Nick has gained grades and qualifications in Music and teaching.
- Nick worked for the East Sussex, YDS, creating a youth music programme in Eastbourne and also became qualified an arts award facilitator.
- Nick has toured the UK and played festivals, sharing the stage with established artists like Athlete, White Lies and Laura Marling. Nick's music has been on BBC radio 1, 2 and 6 / he's been signed to Fierce Panda records, with his former band Capital.
- Nick frequently updates his DBS certificate and maintains a Child Protection certificate
With all of this valuable experience Nick has gained a good knowledge base as to what makes a fantastic musician.