Why join MEI?

Tell us about your instrument; what do you like about it?

I play the clarinet and I have been playing since I was 7. Playing the clarinet is one of my many enjoyments because it is such a peaceful and calming instrument that isn't too loud or too quiet and plays pitches of many ranges.

Tell us about your lessons at the Music Centre; what do you do on a normal afternoon at the Music Centre?

I go to both AMSI and Highbury Grove MEI Music Centres. A typical lesson for me would include practicing some scales, arpeggio and some sight reading then move on to some grade 4 clarinet pieces or other pieces that I am working on. Also I would have a group lesson with other wind instruments and partake in a group choir session.

What have you learned most recently on your instrument at the Music Centre?

Recently I have been learning pieces and scales from my grade 4 book. The most recent thing I have learnt is 'Tonight' from West Side Story, and I have learned a G major scale over 2 octaves!

What has been the best thing about being part of Music Education Islington’s Music Centre so far?

The best thing about being part of the MEI Music Centre is the amazing opportunities I receive when at the Music Centres. Since I’ve been at MEI, I have been given the opportunity to perform at many different places including the Royal Albert Hall, Milton Court and even had the opportunity to write a letter to David Attenborough which inspired us to write our hit pop song ‘Seasons Change’. I have also been on many MEI Courses which include the Summer Orchestra Courses, Jazz Courses and Music Makers. Through MEI I have been given the chance to join the National Orchestra for All (NOFA) which has enabled me to continue to practise many different styles of music. Moreover, I have received a scholarship from MEI because of my hard work and dedication to the clarinet. Another big thing that has changed since I joined MEI has been my social skills and confidence because before joining MEI I could never stand in front of a crowd and perform but since being at MEI that has changed greatly.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about joining the Music Centres? Why should they come along?’

One thing that I would say to someone that wants to join MEI is that MEI is something that I look forward to every week and is an enjoyable experience which I think that many other young people that are interested in music should embark on. The students, teachers and staff are welcoming and friendly and it is something that I would love for many young people to join in the future.

Tell us about your instrument; what do you like about it?

I like the piano because it’s a very relaxing instrument and you can never get bored of it. The flute is enjoyable because it has a wide range of notes and sounds very graceful

Tell us about your lessons at the Music Centre

We learn pieces that aren’t a massive struggle but not easy enough to make us feel bored.

What do you do on a normal afternoon at the Music Centre?

I start by doing a wind, flute and brass ensemble and then I do a private flute lesson with Emma, the flute teacher. Finally, I do a flute group session with Emma and a couple of other flautists.

What have you learned most recently on your instrument at the Music Centre?

I have been learning a grade 8 piece on the flute in my private lessons.

What has been the best thing about being part of Music Education Islington’s Music Centre so far?

So far, the best thing about MEI is the connections you make, like friends, and the music that you learn.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about joining the Music Centres? Why should they come along?’

I would tell them to come along because even if you don’t want to be a musician in the future, you can learn life skills at this Music Centre, like teamwork and resilience.

Tell us about your instrument; what do you like about it?

The instrument that I'm learning to play at the Music Centre is French Horn. I was inspired to take it up after hearing the Horn Solo from Tchaikovsky's Fifth Symphony - the powerful yet elegant sound flowing over the grand orchestra was mesmerising. What I particularly like about the French Horn is that it can create a varied array of sounds that has no limits. From soft and quiet to loud and brassy - the horn can do it all!

Tell us about your lessons at the Music Centre; what do you do on a normal afternoon at the Music Centre?

A normal day at the Music Centre consists of choir, ensemble and individual instrumental lessons, all of which extend your musical abilities in the best way. The teachers make sure that the lessons aren't dull or repetitive. In choir we sometimes play rhythm games or musical statues and occasionally we even swap places with the teacher to show how we think the choir piece should be sung!

What have you learned most recently on your instrument at the Music Centre?

On the horn, I have learned how to create a consistent sound and how to play with emotion and not just replicate the notes from the note sheet. I have also done improvisations and even attempted at writing my own pieces with my amazing teacher, who has helped me reach the results which are disparate to where I first started.

What has been the best thing about being part of Music Education Islington’s Music Centre so far?

I like the sense of belonging and accomplishment that you get from being part of the Music Centre family. Everyone here is friendly and kind. Whenever you finish a piece, you feel extremely good about learning something new - it's like climbing a mountain and getting to the very top!

What would you say to someone who is thinking about joining the Music Centres? Why should they come along?

I would say to them - if you love music, you should definitely try joining a Music Centre, no matter what your current ability is. Here you will meet lots of like-minded people and you will learn the skills that will change your life.