Learn Music with
Timaru School of Music
A clear, supportive pathway designed to help young musicians grow in confidence and skill.
Music Pathway
From first notes to ensemble performance, we guide students
through a clear and supportive journey into music.
Introduction to Music
A welcoming foundation class where students explore rhythm, instruments and basic musical skills.
(Some older or experienced students may move directly into group lessons.)
Group Instrument Lessons
Students begin learning one chosen instrument in small groups and build their skills throughout the year.
(Students who complete Introduction to Music receive priority placement.)
Ensemble Playing
As students grow in confidence, they may be invited to join an ensemble alongside their group lesson, at no extra cost.
(Guitar students continue developing ensemble-style skills within their group lessons.)
Progression and growth
Students may transition from beginner instruments such as recorder into post-beginner options like clarinet or flute as their skills develop.
(Many students go on to perform in concerts and may later join wider community ensembles.)
Introduction to Music
A welcoming foundation class where students explore rhythm, instruments and basic musical skills.
(Some older or experienced students may move directly into group lessons.)
Group Instrument Lessons
Students begin learning one chosen instrument in small groups and build their skills throughout the year.
(Students who complete Introduction to Music receive priority placement.)
Ensemble Playing
Students begin learning one chosen instrument in small groups and build their skills throughout the year.
(Guitar students continue developing ensemble-style skills within their group lessons.)
Progression and growth
Students may transition from beginner instruments such as recorder into post-beginner options like clarinet or flute as their skills develop.
(Many students go on to perform in concerts and may later join wider community ensembles.)
Instruments You Can Learn
Students can learn a range of instruments across the following categories.
Availability may depend on space and progression level.
Violin
MON3:15pm - 5pm (Lynn Clevely)TUE3:15pm - 5pm (Lynn Clevely) 3:30pm - 5:45pm (Natasha Gibbs)WED3:30pm - 5:45pm (Natasha Gibbs)Learn the fundamentals of violin in a fun, supportive environment while building confidence through music.
Flute
TUE4:40pm - 6pmWED3:20pm - 5:20pmThe flute is a bright and expressive instrument that is enjoyable to learn and rewarding to play, offering opportunities to perform in concerts, ensembles, and beyond.
Recorder
WED4:00pm - 5:00pmThe recorder is a fun and accessible instrument that provides an excellent foundation for learning music and developing the skills needed to progress to other woodwind instruments.
Clarinet
TUE4:40pm - 6pmWED3:20pm - 5:20pmLearn the fundamentals of the clarinet in a supportive environment while building confidence, musical skills, and a love of making music.
Saxophone
TUE4:40pm - 6pmWED3:20pm - 5:20pmDiscover the fun of learning the saxophone while building confidence, musical skills, and a love of performing with others.
Trumpet
MON4pm - 5:30pmLearn the fundamentals of trumpet playing while developing confidence, musical skills, and the excitement of making music with others.
Trombone
MON4pm - 5:30pmDiscover the unique sound of the trombone while building confidence, musical skills, and the enjoyment of playing as part of a group.
Guitar
MON3:20pm - 5:20pmTUE3:20pm - 5:20pmLearn the fundamentals of guitar in a fun, supportive group environment while developing the skills and confidence to enjoy making music with others.
Ukulele
MON3:20pm - 5:20pmTUE3:20pm - 5:20pmThe ukulele is a fun and approachable instrument that makes it easy for students to begin their musical journey while building confidence and enjoying music from the very first lesson.
Introduction to Music
WED4-5pm (3 separate 20 minute classes)A fun and engaging introduction to music that builds confidence, curiosity, and the foundations for a lifelong musical journey.
Timaru School of Music is not funded to provide piano or drum lessons. Families
seeking tuition for these instruments may wish to explore local private teachers.
Key Information
Helpful information to guide you through the practical details of
learning with Timaru School of Music.
Instrument Hire
Information about hiring instruments and how it works for students getting started.
Information for Caregivers
Everything parents need to know about expectations, communication and support.
Resources
Helpful materials and guidance to support learning and practice at home.
What Instruments Can Be Learnt?
Explore the instruments available at Timaru School of Music, including strings, brass, woodwind, guitar and ukulele.
Have Questions?
We’re Here to Help.
Everything you need to know before beginning your child’s music journey with Timaru School of Music.
TSM Costs as of 2027
- $60 administration fee per year per student
- $100 hire fee per year for instruments if you need to hire them
- Tutor book (cost depends on the book)
We teach music after school Mondays to Wednesdays during term time and availability of lessons is decided by the school of music.
- Trumpet and trombone lessons are on Mondays only
Guitar and ukulele lessons are on Mondays and Tuesdays - Recorder lessons are on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
- Violin lessons are Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays
We are funded for 36 weeks of lessons per year.
New and returning students can apply through our online enrolment process. Visit our Get Started page to begin and learn what happens next.
Ready to Begin?
A clear and supportive pathway into music is just a few steps away.