To kick off January, we hosted 2 fantastic days of training activity with the LMM teachers, followed by yet another inspiring weekend with the PGCEi in Group Instrument Learning cohort.
On Thursday 9th January, we spent the day at City University exploring Iranian Music and the beautiful

Phoenix of Persia story book created by City University Music Department and Tiny Owl Publishing using storytelling, music and  a ‘Shahmaneh box’ of accompanying Iranian artefacts and props. Composer and ethnomusicologist Soosan Lolavar led morning sessions with LMM Musicianship teachers, exploring Iranian instruments, modes and rhythmic patterns as well as composition and improvisation techniques to introduce in lessons. During the afternoon, violin and cello teachers were treated to performances by Iranian musicians, Faraz and Malahat Eshghi and together with Soosan, teachers discovered more of the repertoire, techniques and performance styles of Iranian music. Diversifying our repertoire in the classroom is an ongoing aim for LMM teaching, so do look out for Iranian influences in our school’s upcoming performances! We will continue to build on the Phoenix of Persia book and associated resources through developing an ongoing year 5 Musicianship project, where children can compose their own music alongside the Phoenix of Persia story.
Friday’s training saw violinist and cellists working respectively with string teaching consultants, Jillian Leddra and Emma Butterworth. We also had an invaluable presentation on the OFSTED inspection processes and demands made on schools given by one of our deputy heads, Pippa Cail. An  afternoon of stimulating discussions followed around greater opportunities for inclusivity within our programme. Both Rob Adediran (LMM Executive Director) and Roz De Vile (LMM Learning Director) presented different ways of approaching inclusive and exclusive practices and attitudes within our own communities, teaching and how we can affect change within the broader LMM learning programme.

Our PGCEi weekend had a core focus on musical progression and concepts of potential and talent. We were joined by academic Gary Spruce from BCU who equipped the students with a broad overview of the types of musical knowledge embedded within societies, communities and institutions and how these impact and shape teaching approaches. On our last day, a practical exploration of techniques and classroom activities encouraging deeper insight into pupil’s musical behaviour was led by Hugh Nankivell. Hugh has been working on a long term project identifying elements of musical potential with the charity Awards for Young Musicians – an exciting initiative which we are thrilled to engage with. A provocative and illuminating session, concepts of musical engagement, skills and potential were tested through a set of practical exercises with which the PGCEi cohort had the opportunity to interrogate, reflect and revise.
Over the four days, we were lucky to hear from some exceptional voices in the current music education landscape and collaborate with the exciting work and research of City University Music Department and Awards for Young Musicians.

At London Music Masters, we believe teaching instrumental lessons in groups is crucial to building confidence and a sense of community for young musicians.
Applications for the Team Teach 2020/21 cohort have gone live. Team Teach is a course that will equip teachers with the essential and practical skills needed for the demands of group instrument teaching.
To read more about the course and how to apply, click the button below.