Band programme: Experience, instruments and styles

At Greenwich Music School, we aim to nurture each student’s creativity, confidence and collaborative skills through high quality music education - whether that’s one to one lessons, group courses or playing in bands and ensembles.

How We Collect Experience & Interests:


We’re changing the way we collect information about students’ previous musical experience and interests so we can place them effectively in bands and suitable groups.

For now:

Please email us with details about your experience, such as:

  • Which instrument(s) they play
  • Approximate level or years of playing
  • Genres and styles they enjoy
  • Any previous band or ensemble involvement

We’ll use this information to update their profile - including the Experience Level field - so our team and tutors can plan appropriate group placements.


Experience Levels & Band Placement


Greenwich Music School teaches students of all ages and abilities, from beginners through improvers to more advanced players. We value the individual progression of every student.


Band and ensemble placement is based on:

  • Students feeling supported and confident
  • Ensuring material matches their current skills
  • Building group cohesion and enjoyment

There’s creative flexibility in how bands are structured: students often move between groups as they progress and are encouraged to play in roles where they can succeed and grow.


Instruments & Roles in Bands


Although bands at GMS have roots in genres like rock and pop (e.g., through our Rock Band and songwriting sessions), we adapt ensembles based on students’ interests and instrumentation.

We support a wide range of instruments you can learn with us — from guitar, drums and bass through to keyboards, voice and more — both in one‑to‑one lessons and in group settings.

This means there’s often creative room for students to explore different instruments or switch roles as the band develops.


Styles of Music & Repertoire


Band repertoire largely reflects:

  • The musical interests of the students
  • What the group is ready and excited to play
  • Opportunities to explore original music and contemporary styles

Styles often include various rock and pop influences, plus student‑led original pieces - all guided by professional musicians and educators at GMS. Creativity and self‑expression are central to our ensemble courses.