Frequently Asked Questions

What Instruments Do You Teach?

Currently we offer:

However, if you’re looking for lessons in an instrument not listed here, please ask us as one of our team may also teach the required instrument. If they don’t, we’ll be happy to direct you to one of our trusted partners.

What Ages/Ability Levels/Musical Styles Do You Teach?

We teach students of ALL ages and ability levels, in all musical styles. Our lessons are for everyone.

Tell Me About Your Teachers

We are a happy, friendly team of specialist, expert teachers, run by Alex Bruce – not a faceless agency. Our teachers are:

Music Graduates – many with first class honours, and progressing to MA, PGCE or PHD level

Friendly – Nurturing, engaging, patient and approachable by nature, making lessons fun

Vetted – DBS checked, interviewed, and reference checked for your safety and reassurance

Qualified – Experienced teachers with proven teaching successes in their background

Talented – Specialist, virtuoso musicians, in-demand in London’s thriving music scene

Can I Study Grades?

It’s up to you. Students of all ages and musical tastes begin lessons for their own reasons, and with their own unique aims and ambitions. If taking grade exams is one of yours, then fantastic – and yes, absolutely we can help you achieve that.

We’re extremely proud that Bruce Music students have a 100% pass rate, with distinction or merit, in all grade exams taken since we opened in 2013. With our teachers’ expertise, and your talent and dedication, you’ll pass too!

We equally welcome students looking for less formal progression paths. Whether it’s grades, joining a band, composing songs or pieces, playing as a new hobby, or anything else, we aim only that you make progress, and enjoy music!

What Is Your Lesson Cancellation Policy?

We require 48 hours notice to cancel a lesson. Where this is not given, the lesson fee is charged in full. This is on the basis that your teacher has set aside your slot in their schedule, and a short-notice cancellation doesn’t give them time to take on other work to protect their income.

We don’t enjoy enforcing this policy, but it’s a necessity to protect our team. As such it applies in all circumstances, without exception.

What Equipment Do I Need To Begin Lessons?

The short answer is just the instrument you’re learning, whether bought or rented. Certain accessories may be helpful, or required fairly early on, e.g. A guitar tuner, or a violin bow, but usually the instrument alone is enough for the first few lessons – at which your teacher can advise on any accessories needed.

I’m An Absolute Beginner. What Instrument Should I Buy?

Please visit our What To Buy page for our recommendations. If you would like further advice please don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss and we’ll be very happy to help.

How And When Do I Pay For Lessons?

Payments are requested via bank transfer to Bruce Music, no later than 48 hours before a lesson’s scheduled time. Account details will be provided in your booking confirmation email. In some circumstances we can also accept payments via PayPal and similar services. Unfortunately we do not accept cash payments.