Dear Layston Music Families,
Spring is on its way!
As the days grow longer and lighter, we’re embracing fresh energy and new opportunities for musical growth. It’s a fantastic time to reflect on progress, set new goals, and continue developing skills with consistency and joy.
The Power of Words: How Positive Language Transforms Music Learning and Child Development
This week, we’re celebrating Words Matter Week—a reminder of how powerful language is in shaping learning experiences.
The way we speak to our children and students can greatly impact their confidence, motivation, and musical progress.
In our latest blog post, we explore how using positive reinforcement and encouragement in music lessons can help young musicians flourish, both in their playing and in their overall development.
We discuss:
🎵 How small shifts in language, such as saying "That was a great effort!" instead of "That was wrong," can boost confidence.
🎵 Why children who feel supported and encouraged are more likely to persevere through challenges in their musical journey.
🎵 Practical tips for parents on using affirming language at home to enhance musical growth and self-belief.
🎶 Read more here: [https://www.laystonmusic.co.uk/post/the-power-of-words-how-positive-language-transforms-music-learning-and-child-development]
Spring Term Dates for Your Diary
Spring Term: Tuesday 7th January – Monday 7th April (inclusive)
Easter Holidays: Tuesday 8th April – Monday 21st April
Summer Term: Tuesday 22nd April – Monday 4th August (inclusive)
Please ensure lessons are scheduled accordingly. If you need to make any adjustments, do let us know in advance!
Looking Ahead to September – Your Plans Matter! 🎵
We know September feels a long way off, but we’re already preparing our lesson schedules for the next academic year.
If you/your child are moving on to college or university or will have other commitments, please let us know as soon as possible that they will be finishing lessons at the end of the Summer term.
This helps us to allocate lesson slots effectively and ensure a smooth transition into the new term.
Important Update:
The 4pm lesson slot weekdays will no longer be available due to other commitments Paul and I have. To accommodate this change, we will be opening up another evening or rearranging lesson times. Your responses are vital in helping us determine availability and adjust the schedule accordingly.
Simply reply to this email or speak to me at your child’s next lesson to confirm your plans. Thank you for your help!
Upcoming Event: Song & Sound Healing Workshop 🎵💙
Join us on Sunday 23rd March 2025 for a Sound Healing Workshop, where we will explore the therapeutic benefits of music and vibration. This unique experience offers a chance to unwind, relax, and connect through sound.
📅 Date: Sunday 23rd March📍 Location: Buntingford Community Centre🎟 Booking: [https://www.songandsound.co.uk/event-list]
Technique Tip: Using Scales to Strengthen Musical Skills 🎹🎸
Scales are a fundamental part of improving technique and confidence.
This week, why not try:
🎵 Piano: Play a F Major Scale legato (smoothly) and then staccato (short and detached) to improve finger control and articulation.
🎸 Guitar: Experiment with ascending and descending pentatonic scales to build speed and dexterity in your playing.
The more you practise scales, the easier it becomes to move fluidly between notes in real pieces!
Meet Your Mentor: Talena Cuthbert
With over 20 years of experience, I’m dedicated to nurturing each student’s unique potential. As a BA-qualified Musician and Producer, Music and Health Practitioner, Piano Teacher, Music Mentor, Song and Sound Therapist, and Vocal Coach, I specialise in helping children and young people build confidence through music. My additional qualifications in Sound Therapy, Music Therapy, ASD teaching, and Children & Young People’s Mental Health allow me to create a supportive and understanding learning environment for all students.
Thank you for being part of the Layston Music Family!
Your ongoing support means the world to us, and we love seeing your children thrive musically. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your child’s progress, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Wishing you a wonderful March full of music and positivity!
Warmest wishes,
Talena Cuthbert
Layston Music
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