Business Details
20 Years
experience
Online Music Lessons with Qualified Teachers
Established in 2006, Finchley Music School has evolved from a local Yamaha-affiliated institution to a globally recognized online music education provider. Our journey began with piano and guitar courses, later expanding to include violin, saxophone, flute, and clarinet. We transitioned to online lessons in 2020, now serving students across Poland, Estonia, Canada, China, and beyond. Our teaching methodology combines Alfred Publications' structured curriculum with personalized instruction, ensuring students develop technical proficiency and musical creativity. As a Trinity Exam Centre, we offer accredited examinations that contribute to UCAS points for university admissions.Our team of qualified, DBS-checked instructors includes specialists like Paulo Andrade, whose postgraduate studies in music education enhance our pedagogical approach. We maintain rigorous quality standards through lesson observations, student feedback, and continuous methodological updates. Our founders, Chris and Laura McGinity, remain actively involved in music education while leading the Phoenix Concert Band, demonstrating our commitment to nurturing lifelong musical engagement.
Services
Guitar Lessons
Piano Lessons
Saxophone Lessons
Flute Lessons
Clarinet Lessons
Bass Guitar
Online Assessments
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer structured lessons developed with Alfred Publications' curriculum
- Our teachers hold professional qualifications and enhanced DBS checks
- We provide free taster lessons for beginners
- We've successfully transitioned to online teaching since 2020
- Our founders maintain active roles in music education and performance
Associations and certifications
- Trinity College London
What people say
Excellent teacher
Great progress
Showcase talented pupils
Services
Guitar Lessons
We offer comprehensive guitar tuition for ages 5+. Our Young Guitar course uses appropriately sized instruments for children aged 5-7, while Play Guitar focuses on rock and pop styles for ages 8+. Lessons cover technical skills, music theory, and instrument maintenance. Our structured curriculum includes ensemble playing and prepares students for graded examinations.
Piano Lessons
Piano instruction begins at age 6 using the Alfred curriculum. We offer progressive learning paths from beginner to advanced levels, covering classical and contemporary styles. Our approach emphasizes sight-reading, aural skills, and rhythmic development. Students can progress through graded examinations with Trinity or other accredited boards.
Saxophone Lessons
We teach saxophone from age 7/8 using Trevor James Alpha instruments for beginners. Our curriculum includes classical and jazz syllabuses with improvisation training. Students progress through Abracadabra and Saxophone Basics materials to Trinity exam preparation, developing both technical proficiency and musical expression.
Flute Lessons
Flute instruction starts at age 6/7 with curved head joint instruments. We use Flute Basics and Abracadabra materials, progressing to standard flute and Trinity exams. Our teaching emphasizes proper embouchure development, finger technique, and musical interpretation through diverse repertoire.
Online Assessments
We provide free assessments for prospective students. Beginners receive equipment guidance and placement recommendations. Returning musicians undergo skill evaluations to determine appropriate class levels. These sessions help match students with suitable instructors and curriculum pathways.
People
Chris McGinity
Founder
Co-founder of Finchley Music School in 2006, Chris transitioned from Yamaha-affiliated teaching to establish independent operations. He leads the Phoenix Concert Band and continues developing music education programs.
Laura McGinity
Co-Founder
Co-founder with 15+ years' experience, Laura developed the school's structured teaching approach. She teaches saxophone, flute, and clarinet online while maintaining performance commitments with the Phoenix Concert Band.
Paulo Andrade
Guitar Teacher
Experienced guitar instructor with postgraduate music education qualifications. Paulo specializes in online teaching methods, adapting traditional techniques for virtual instruction since 2020.
Questions
What instruments can my child learn?
We teach guitar, piano, saxophone, flute, and clarinet. Specialized programs exist for ages 5+ with appropriate instrument sizing.
How do online lessons work?
Lessons use Zoom with structured 30-60 minute weekly sessions. Teachers provide homework, progress tracking, and technical support for online learning.
Are exams available?
Yes, we offer Trinity, Rockschool, and ABRSM graded exams. Exam fees are additional and sessions occur online throughout the year.
What equipment do we need?
Students require appropriate instruments. We provide guidance on purchasing or hiring suitable equipment at various price points.
How much practice is required?
Beginners should practice 10-20 minutes daily. Consistent practice with parental support yields best results, especially for younger students.
Can we try a lesson first?
Yes, free taster lessons available for beginners. Contact us to arrange an assessment and experience our teaching approach.
