Discover the Joy of Group Music Classes at Music Collective Scotland

Nicole Tonner
Jul 11, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Dec 27, 2025

At Music Collective Scotland, we understand that every child learns differently. That’s why we offer a range of small group classes as an alternative to traditional one-on-one lessons. For many children, learning music in a group setting can be more effective and far more enjoyable.

Whether it’s Early Keys (piano, ages 5–8), Early Strummers (ukulele, ages 5–8), or our classes for piano, guitar, and ukulele from age 8+, our group lessons support musical development, spark joy, and build confidence.

🎵 Small Groups, Big Benefits

Our group classes are capped at just five pupils. This ensures that:

✔ Every child has access to an instrument for the full lesson, maximising hands-on learning time.

✔ Teachers can provide individual attention to support good technique.

✔ We can easily differentiate tasks to challenge or support learners as needed.

As a teacher who regularly leads music classes of 20+ in a school setting, I know the power of group learning. However, small numbers make all the difference when it comes to musical growth. That’s why our group lessons feel focused, nurturing, and fun.

🧠 What Happens in Class?

Our group lessons are fun, active, and designed to support every child. Whether they’re taking their first steps in music or progressing toward formal grades, we have something for everyone.

🎹 Piano Classes (Ages 5–8 & 8+)

Early Keys (ages 5–8) follow the Piano Adventures curriculum alongside a bespoke musicianship programme written in-house by Nicole. These lessons are inspired by Kodály methods and include:

Clapping and singing games
Rhythm stick work
Whiteboard challenges and rhythm flashcards
Ball games and movement
Playing at the piano, with each child progressing at their own pace

Piano Classes (ages 8+) follow the Piano Time series, with added scale work and supplementary pieces. Many pupils also begin working towards ABRSM Grade 1 and 2, depending on their confidence and progress.

🎸 Guitar Classes (Ages 8+)

In our guitar classes, pupils learn the fundamentals of:

Reading chord symbols and TAB
Playing open chords and common progressions
Developing strumming and rhythm skills
Learning real songs and playing in a group band-style environment

Tasks are tailored to ability. New learners might play a simple melody, while more advanced pupils explore fingerpicking or more complex rhythms.

🎵 Ukulele Classes (Ages 5–8 & 8+)

Early Strummers (ages 5–8) are full of energy and creativity. They use many of the same musical games as our Early Keys classes. Pupils learn songs together but are supported individually:

Beginners may strum a single chord
More confident pupils may play full patterns or melody lines

🔁 A Curriculum That Works Across Teachers

Although each teacher brings their own unique personality and approach, we follow a shared MCS curriculum across all classes. This means that children can:

✅ Join multiple classes a week—ideal for building confidence

✅ See faster progress through more hands-on time with their instrument

✅ Still work at their own pace, with consistent support and goals

Some of our pupils attend two or even three group classes each week. This gives them the benefits of regular practice without the cost of individual tuition.

👥 The Social Side of Learning

Many children love learning in a group setting.

Children in a group piano class having fun - Arbroath studio — Early Keys Class Fun!

For younger learners, a 30-minute one-on-one session can feel long or intense. Our small group format allows children to:

💬 Learn alongside others

💪 Feel supported by peers

🎯 Stay focused through fun, collaborative learning

The result? Happy, confident learners who enjoy every step of the journey.

💬 Common Questions from Parents

“Will my child fall behind?”

Not at all. The teacher sets the pace, and every child progresses individually.

“Will they still get enough attention?”

Absolutely. With only five pupils per class, our teachers have time to support everyone.

“What if they want to switch to one-on-one later on?”

That’s easy—we’ll support your child with a smooth transition when they’re ready.

🎼 Music That Grows With Your Child

Music lessons are an investment in your child’s creativity, confidence, and self-expression. We also understand the need for flexibility and value. Our group classes cost just £12.50 per 30-minute session. This includes all the benefits of structured, high-quality teaching in a fun and friendly environment.

You can even book a free trial to see if it’s the right fit!