Vocal and Instrument Lessons

The Basic Music Education Programme consists of three study modules: Music Skills 1, 2 and 3. Each module can be studied flexibly for a duration of 1–3 years, depending on the student’s age, instrument and competency. Studies at our music institute are always goal-oriented, and basic music education
studies usually require 2–3 weekly visits for lessons, and regular practice at home.

We provide lessons for many different instruments and singing. A child can begin their lessons at age 5–9, depending on the instrument. During the studies, each student will be given diverse and comprehensive lessons on the basic techniques, pieces and self-expression possibilities of the relevant instrument(s). Our studies provide the skills that are necessary for playing or singing independently (as a hobby) and/or for advancing musical studies
further in accordance with personal goals.

Basic Music Education includes:

• Individual lesson
• Music group sessions
• Music perception subjects

The Vantaa Music Institute’s basic education in the arts Extended Study Curriculum enables our students to choose various study paths the contents of which are then developed based on the student’s personal interests.

During the Individual lesson, the student is taught the basic playing technique, pieces and means of self-expression of this instrument. Singing and playing lessons are held weekly. In addition, students must also practice independently at home.

Students can choose one of the following instruments:

• Piano, Pipe Organ, Harpsichord
• Violin, Viola, Cello, Double bass
• Recorder, Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, Bassoon
• Trumpet, French horn, Trombone, Tuba
• Guitar, Accordion, Kantele, Harp
• Percussion instruments
• Electric guitar, Electric bass, Piano, Drums, Saxophone
• Vocals, Pop and jazz vocals

For their studies, each student must have their own instrument. If necessary, their teacher will help them find a suitable one. Orchestra instruments can be loaned annually from the music institute for one study year.

Instrument studies are usually started at age 6–16, and basic-level instrument studies are normally completed by age 18.

Music group sessions consist of practising our instruments and vocals together, which is a vital part of musical studies. Vocal or instrument lessons and music group sessions are two parts of a whole, and they complement each other. Group sessions can take place together with a friend during instrumentation lessons, at music perception classes, with an orchestra or choir or with a small group. Depending on your major, you can participate in group sessions either weekly or periodically. The teacher giving lessons on your major subject is responsible for directing you into a suitable music group.

Those completing open studies can join choirs or orchestras by taking part in a vocal/instrument audition.

Group sessions enhance and teach many different skills:

• Listening to music, sense of harmony and music perception
• Reading music, rhythms
• Performance skills
• Social skills, working together
• Ability to communicate musically with other players and vocalists
• Ability to work long-term

Music perception (MUHA) studies support each student’s instrument studies and develop their musical competencies, such as their general knowledge of music and abilities to read, write and perceive music. MUHA lessons consist of singing, playing instruments and written exercises. Students also receive guidance on creating their own music. Courses may include, for example, workshops and concert visits, and the lessons can also be organised periodically. Progress and successful completion of the studies requires being present at the lessons and completing homework regularly.

Music perception subjects are one component of both basic and advanced music studies.

Basic-level music perception subjects begin during the year when the student turns 10. According to the new curriculum, basic music studies include the following MUHA courses: Muha 1, Muha 2a, Muha 2b and Muha 3. If willing, those under the age of 10 can attend pre-training by joining a Music Keys group.  

Advanced music perception subjects’ studies include studies that are completed by all students, such as courses on ear training and analysis. Optional studies consist of the following courses from which each student must choose at least two: Composing and Arranging (sävellys ja sovitus), History of Contemporary Music (uudemman musiikin historia), Music Technologies (musiikkiteknologiat), and Introduction to Harmony (johdatus harmoniaan).

In addition to the above, students may also complete other optional courses.

Schedules for music perception subjects, school year 22–23. 

After completing their basic studies, the student may continue into advanced studies. These studies are planned based on each student’s strengths and interests. The goal is to develop, diversify and enhance the skills the student has acquired during the basic studies so that the student can continue their musical hobby independently and creatively. These studies can also provide the additional competencies required for applying to a professional-level music school. Once advanced studies have been completed, the student will receive the music institute’s graduation certificate.

Advanced studies offer five different study programmes of which each student may choose the one that corresponds best with their personal goals. All programmes include instrument lessons, music group sessions, MUHA studies and optional courses.

Vantaa Music Institute’s advanced study programmes:

• The Solo Instrument (Solistinen instrumentti)
• Two Instruments (Kaksi instrumenttia)
• Music Group Sessions (Yhteismusisointi)
• Musical Theatre (Musiikkiteatteri)
• The Music Maker (Musiikin tekijä)

Advanced Studies’ End Project

The end project is a project planned and implemented jointly by the student and their teacher during the advanced studies phase that demonstrates the student’s musical skills and knowledge. Its aim should be to present the student’s personal strengths and learning.

Each end project must include a musical part and a work diary. Goals for the musical part and the work diary are set based on the courses available at the institute and the student’s study programme. The end project can consist of multiple elements or it can be a demonstration of a specific advanced skill acquired by the student. The end project can contain personal compositions, for example, or it can be a multidisciplinary art project.

Advanced Studies End Project: Example

Pop & Jazz vocal student, Heli Korhonen, has employed a multidisciplinary approach to her advanced studies’ end project. In the video, Heli performs Anna-Mari Kähärä’s Resitatiivi I. In its visuals, she uses innovative techniques to combine animated content and video filmed at the Pop & Jazz Vocalists’ Level Proficiency Concert (Culture Factory Vernissa, 5 September 2021). The video’s audio track was recorded and mixed during the school year 21–22. In her end project’s separate, written part, Heli gives a thorough presentation of Aretha Franklin and soul music. 
    

NB! You may only apply to basic music studies if your home municipality is Vantaa.