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Cello, double bass, theory and more

Private cello, double bass, trombone, composition, music theory and songwriting lessons in Turramurra. One on one, for children, teenagers and adults, at any level.

Book a free trial See all six options

Six more ways to learn

Beyond our main instruments, these lessons are taught one on one, weekly through the school term.

Cello

Cello students learn to sit well, hold the bow and draw a full, warm tone, then add left hand positions, reading in bass clef and orchestral parts. Children play smaller cellos and size up as they grow.

Double bass

The double bass anchors orchestras, jazz groups and school string programs. Lessons cover bowing and plucking, intonation on a long fingerboard, and the walking lines and orchestral parts bass players are asked to read.

Trombone

Trombone lessons build a steady buzz, accurate slide positions and breath control, with school band and concert band music alongside. Let us know at booking and we'll match you with the right teacher.

Composition

Composition lessons teach students to shape their own ideas into finished pieces: melody, harmony, form and writing for different instruments. They suit students working on school composition tasks or simply writing for themselves.

Music theory

Theory explains how music works, from note names and rhythm to scales, intervals, chords and harmony. It makes every instrument easier to learn, and it supports the general knowledge part of practical exams.

Songwriting

Songwriting lessons work on lyrics, chord progressions, melody and song structure, until an idea becomes a song the student can perform. Students usually write at the piano or guitar, so it pairs well with either.

A teacher and a boy working through written music at a keyboard

What a lesson looks like

Starting where you areThe first lesson works out what the student can already do, whether that's playing another instrument, reading music or nothing yet.
Add it on or take it on its ownTheory and composition can be added to an instrument lesson or taken on their own. Ask us which suits your week.
Reading and writingWhat you hear, you sing; what you sing, you play; what you play, you read; what you read, you write. Every lesson here follows that order.
Real goalsOrchestra seats, school assessments, AMEB exams or a first finished song. The teacher plans each term around the goal the student chooses.

All six are taught in Turramurra, at head office (Level 1, 1319 to 1321 Pacific Highway) or Studio 2 (Level 1, 1273 Pacific Highway, corner of Rohini Street). We'll confirm the studio when you book.

Cello, double bass and composition teachers

These teachers trained at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and play orchestral, jazz and contemporary music. For trombone, theory and songwriting, we'll match you with a teacher when you book.

Aaron Aaron Clarinet, saxophone, composition
Erik Erik Cello
Siebe Siebe Bass guitar, double bass, cello, piano
Meet the full team

Common questions

Can theory be added to my child's instrument lessons?
Yes. Some students spend part of their weekly lesson on theory or composition, others book a separate lesson just for it. Talk to us when you book and we'll suggest the option that fits.
What size cello does a child need?
Cellos come in fractional sizes, such as quarter, half and three quarter, and the right one depends on the child's height and reach. The teacher can advise on size at the free trial.
Is double bass the same as bass guitar?
They share the same tuning and role, holding down the bass line, but they're played very differently. The double bass is acoustic and usually bowed in orchestras. If you want electric bass, see our bass guitar lessons.
Does my child need to play an instrument to learn composition?
It helps, but it isn't required. Most composition students play something already, often piano, which makes it easier to hear ideas. Our piano lessons are a common partner.
Can cello students sit AMEB exams?
Yes, from Preliminary to Grade 8, if they want to. See AMEB exam preparation.

Looking for something for a younger child? Our group classes start at three years old.

No obligation

Try a free lesson

Thirty minutes with a teacher, on us. Choose the instrument or subject and see the times that are free this week. Fees and your weekly time are confirmed at the trial.

1Choose the instrument and the student's age
2Pick a free time from the live schedule
3Meet your teacher and start the following week
Book a free trial for cello, theory and more Enquire about a group class

Group class places aren't shown online. Tell us your child's age and we'll find the right class.

LIVE AVAILABILITY FROM THE ISM SCHEDULE

Our main instruments

Piano Guitar Singing Violin Drums Bass guitar Clarinet and saxophone
Not sure where to start? Tell us what you'd like to learn and we'll find the right teacher. Book a free trial online or call 02 9983 9460.
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