Bio

Mastery offers private lessons in voice and all instruments for a range of students, from age three through seniors. Lessons are individualized, instructed by expert teachers who structure the lesson according to the needs of the student and the desires of the parent, where applicable. Lessons for very young children consist of 15-minute sessions twice weekly and 30-minute sessions, in combination with musicianship classes, for older children. The duration of sessions is based on the age of the student and the level of study. Approaches are also tailored to the student, ranging from lighter, varied to formal, classical approaches.

Recommended beginning ages for specified instruments are as follows:

• Piano: age 3
• Violin and viola: age 4
• Cello, drums, xylophone, flute: age 5
• Guitar (electric, Spanish, bass), recorder: age 6
• Voice: age 6
• Clarinet, trombone, euphonium, trumpet, tuba: age 8

Mastery offers opportunities for ensembles and performance through master classes, recitals (up to four times a year), examinations, competitions, and community service. Ensembles may consist of clarinet or other woodwind duets and trios. Voice students have options of getting together with drum, piano, and guitar students for live garage-band practices, as well as practising different genres, such as pop, rock, and musical theatre.

Preparation for Royal Conservatory of Music or Conservatory Canada examinations is encouraged but not mandatory.

Teaching Info

Mastery is located on the University of British Columbia campus. Because of its proximity to a number of elementary and secondary schools, it offers before and after school lessons and programs as well as lessons at lunch hour and on weekends catering to the needs of busy families. Our teachers are trained professionally and bring excitement, passion, and strong pedagogical standards to every student. There is a spirit of excellence fostered as soon as you step into the school. The end result is to draw out of every student an interest in music and an ability to provide creative expression through strong technical skills.