How to Choose a Music School in Sydney: 10 Questions to Ask

Choosing a music school is a big decision. With so many options across Sydney, how do you know which school will suit your child? Here are the questions we’d ask if we were in your shoes.

1. Is the location convenient?

Location matters more than you might think. Look for a school that is:

• Easy to reach after school
• Close to parking or public transport
• In a safe, well lit area

At ISM Turramurra, both our studios are on the Pacific Highway in Turramurra.

2. What are the teaching spaces like?

The learning environment makes a real difference. Look for:

• Rooms set up for music teaching
• Good quality instruments
• Good lighting
• Rooms where the sound works well for lessons

3. What programs are available?

A good music school offers options for different ages and levels.

For young beginners (3 to 6 years)

• Group classes that introduce the basics
• Fun, engaging activities
• Teaching suited to their age
• Time to learn alongside other children

For older students (7 and up)

• A clear path from one level to the next
• A choice of group classes or private lessons
• Chances to perform
• Exam preparation if they want it

4. How qualified are the teachers?

Good teaching makes all the difference. Ask about:

• Teacher qualifications
• Teaching experience
• Ongoing training
• Their teaching approach

5. What’s the teaching approach?

Look for:

• A structured curriculum
• A clear path of progress
• A balance of theory and playing
• Regular feedback on how your child is going

6. What does it really cost?

Clear pricing matters. When comparing schools, check:

• Lesson fees for group and private lessons, and the lesson length each fee covers
• Books and materials
• How terms are structured and how many lessons are in a term
• When fees are due and how you can pay
• Extra costs such as exams and concerts
• Any discounts, such as for siblings or friends

7. How are missed lessons handled?

Life gets busy, so ask about the makeup lesson policy:

• How much notice you need to give
• How many makeup lessons are allowed
• When they need to be used by
• How you book them

8. What’s the school’s track record?

Look for:

• How long the school has been running
• Student achievements
• Feedback from other parents
• Involvement in the local community

9. How good is the communication?

Good communication between the school and families is vital:

• Updates on progress
• Clear policies
• Staff who reply promptly
• Easy booking

10. What else is on offer?

Beyond regular lessons, look for:

• Concerts and performance opportunities
• Workshops
• Holiday programs
• Community events

When you visit

Take note of:

• The general atmosphere
• How engaged the students are
• How staff interact with parents
• How well the rooms are kept
• How professional the staff are

Warning signs

• Unclear pricing
• Inflexible policies
• Poor communication
• Run down rooms
• A narrow range of programs

Questions worth asking any music school

These are the questions we’d put to any school, with our own answers so you can compare.

• How long has the school been teaching? ISM Turramurra has taught music in Turramurra since 1992.
• Are private lessons one on one? Yes, one on one from the very first lesson, at the student’s own pace.
• Can you see live availability before you book? Yes, for private lessons: our booking page shows the times that are free, straight from our schedule. For group classes, send us an enquiry.
• Is the first lesson free? Yes, your first lesson is a free 30 minute trial.
• Do they teach both group and private lessons? Yes, structured group courses from age 3 and private lessons for any age.
• What method do they use? The ISM method: what you hear, you sing; what you sing, you play; what you play, you read; what you read, you write.
• Do they prepare students for AMEB exams? Yes, including mock exams in the weeks before the exam.
• What are the hours? We’re open seven days, 7:30am to 10pm.

Next steps

Once you’ve found a school that ticks these boxes:

1. Book a trial lesson.
2. Read through the school’s policies.
3. Talk to the teacher about your child’s goals.

Ready to start?

ISM Turramurra has been teaching young musicians since 1992, and we’d love to show you how we teach. Our approach follows a simple principle: what you hear, you sing; what you sing, you play; what you play, you read; what you read, you write.

• Head office: Level 1, 1319 to 1321 Pacific Highway, Turramurra NSW 2074
• Studio 2: Level 1, 1273 Pacific Highway, Turramurra NSW 2074 (corner of Rohini Street)
• Phone: 02 9983 9460
• Email: info@ismturramurra.com.au

The right music school builds more than musicians. It builds confidence, creativity and a lifelong love of music. Take your time, ask questions and choose the school that feels right for your family.

Book a free trial lesson at https://app.ismturramurra.com.au/book-trial