Band Performance Studies

Having trouble applying what you've learnt? Whatever you play or sing just doesn't sound right during jamming? Not sure what technique, riff or lick you can use while performing?

Unlike most local music schools in Singapore, The Music Lab has a strong emphasis on band performance skills. We believe that instrumental lessons are only complete when combined with band performance classes, where students of different instruments come together and play as a band.

The Band Performance Studies module give students the opportunity to apply their instruments in a band context. Students will be taught practical and vital skills such as:

• Stage & Microphone setup
• Proper Band rehearsal technique
• Creating interesting music arrangements, while interacting and performing well as a band

Currently, we offer Band Performance classes for Rock and Jazz bands.

(i) Band Performance Studies + Instrument Lessons
(ii) Band Performance Studies

Students can sign up as a band too

Basic Improvisation

This program teaches and enhances students' ability to compose simple melody and rhythms spontaneously, thus promoting creativity.

Students will learn basic melody composition and go through basic syncopation studies.

At the end of this program, students will develop a firm understanding of important rhythms and basic melodic composition concepts.

Lessons are conducted once a week, 50 minutes per session.

Instrumental Focus

Individual and Group lessons are available for most contemporary instruments.

We teach from absolute beginner's level to advanced level, and will get you started based on the level you're currently at (our instructors will assess you).

Our instructors are currently performing professionals who have taught and played for many years.

Although these courses will ground you in strong theory knowledge and playing techniques, you can be assured that you will not be bored by endless theory lessons.

You will be given practical knowledge not just on playing, but performing as a confident professional musician as well. Learn also to compose, arrange and produce your own music.

There are 3 levels: 1 (Basic), 2 (Intermediate), 3 (Advanced).

On your first lesson, we will assess and fit you to your suitable level. However, you can progress at your own speed. If we find that you are able to pick the lessons up quickly, we will advance you to the next level. It is possible to complete all 3 levels within 6 months or even faster - at your own diligence of course. The more you practice, the faster you'll move!

Lessons are conducted once a week, 50 minutes per session.

Jazz Improvisation

A course designed for the Jazz enthusiast.

This is a very unique course whereby classes form a fusion of performance and theoretical studies.

At the end of this course, students will have a firm understanding in jazz rhythms, melodic composition (improvisation) and of course, jazz harmony. Students will also develop confidence both instrumentally and vocally.

Course Units:
1. Jazz Theory
Study important Jazz harmonies and melodic composition

2. Jazz Rhythm Studies
Learn to Swing! Understand the concept behind "swing" and learn various rhythmic improvisational techniques

3. Improvisation
Learn how to incorporate theory into performance. Study important solos of Jazz masters

Lessons are conducted once a week, 50 minutes per session.

Music Composition

Always wanted to know how composers create their masterpieces?

Ever wondered how to turn that melody you've hummed in showers into a complete piece of music? If those questions seem familiar or if you are a budding musician wanting to know more about basic composition techniques, this is the program for you.

In this program, students will go through basic rhythmic studies, learn basic melodic composition, harmonisation and basic music arrangement. At the end of this program, students will have a basic understanding of different popular music styles and also have the basic skills to write and complete a tune.

Lessons are conducted once a week, 50 minutes per session.

Music Academy

With an academy-type course design, the Music Academy is a complete music education program. All students go through units of study that is similar in tertiary music institutions. At the completion of the course, students will be equipped with a wide range of musical skills. Students will learn basic composition skills and also learn methods to enhance their performance skills both individually and as a band.

Course Units:
1. Music Theory
Learn to read musical notations and understand scales, chords and simple chord progressins.
Learn basic keyboard skills regardless of one's principal instrument.

2. Basic Composition
Learn basic composition and music arrangement skills. Learn how to turn a simple melody into a song.

3. Basic Improvisation
Learn how to compose on the fly! Study various rhythmic and melodic improvisational methods to improve one's soloing and compositional skills.

4. Principal Instrument Study
Focuses on instrumental playing techniques.

5. Ensemble Playing
Probably the most important unit of study for an learning musician. Learn how to play in a band! Attend band workshops and understand one's role in a band.

Lessons are conducted once a week, 50 minutes per session.

Music Theory

In-depth music theory study.

Students will go through the ABRSM or Trinity Music theory syllabus and has the option to enrol for grading at their own pace.

Lessons are conducted once a week, 50 minutes per session.