Lessons

NMPAT can provide lessons on a wide range of instruments and disciplines including:

  • brass (cornet, trumpet, tuba, trombone, french horn, tenor horn, baritone, euphonium)
  • guitar (acoustic, bass, electric)
  • harp
  • keyboard and piano
  • percussion (drum kit, orchestral percussion)
  • singing
  • strings (violin, viola, cello, double bass)
  • woodwind (clarinet, oboe, flute, bassoon, saxophone, recorder).

We also offer composition, drama, music production, and SEND lessons.

Lessons in school

NMPAT works with many schools across Northamptonshire to provide music lessons, taught by our high-quality, professional teaching staff. We provide lessons for children from KS2 to KS4, including in primary and secondary schools, special schools, and alternative education settings. Lessons usually start from Year 3, though younger children may be suitable for violin or recorder.

To sign your child up for NMPAT music lessons, you can contact your child’s school office to see what instruments are currently on offer at the school.

If your first-choice of instrument is not currently taught at the school, your Headteacher may be able to make a written request to NMPAT to add a visit.  There will need to be at least 6 students committed to taking lessons for that instrument for a teacher to visit a school. There may already be other students at the school interested in lessons, so it’s always worth checking!

Lessons are designed to be fun, supportive, and tailored to your child’s level, whilst aiding progression. Pupils can either learn individually or be paired in small groups, with a maximum of 6 children per lesson. Lessons focus on learning and practising your chosen instrument, as well as developing technique and musical understanding.

  • Free instrument hire included (most instruments) 
  • Expert teachers who are active performers 
  • Individual or paired tuition available 
  • From beginner to conservatoire level 
  • Performance opportunities & residential courses 

Payment for music lessons is made directly through your child’s school. Your school will be able to guide you on the process and provide all the details you need to get started.

Some primary schools operate on a Direct Billing of Parents Scheme, where the process for signing up for lessons is slightly different.  Payment for lessons is made by parents, directly to NMPAT.  In these schools, tuition is delivered, during school time, as 15 minute individual lessons.  In some circumstances, lessons may be combined into a shared half hour.  Orchestral instruments are loaned free of charge for the first year, with a voluntary contribution for extended loan. 

To check if your school is involved with this scheme, which is only available in a select number of primary schools, please use the drop down list on this page: Music in School 

If your school is involved with the scheme, and you would like to sign up for lessons, please choose the relevant school from the list and click “next” to continue your application: Register for lessons in a Direct Billing of Parents school 

For more information on commitments and partnership working, please see our terms and conditions page. 

Lessons outside of school

Individual lessons are usually one-to-one with a specialist teacher during term time at NMPAT, Kettering Road, Northampton, or occasionally at other locations such as our Saturday Centres.

These lessons are mainly for students working towards higher grades, though beginners and adults are welcome to apply. Availability may be limited depending on teacher schedules. Beginners are encouraged to check with their school first, as lessons may already be offered there.

We offer a range of lesson lengths including 15, 20 and 30 minutes. Please indicate your preference on the application form. Lessons run during term time, with a total of 30 lessons across the academic year (around 10 per term).

Those taking lessons outside school will need their own instrument. In some cases, high-value or specialist instruments may be loaned to County Ensemble members.

To apply for individual instrumental or vocal lessons for the 2025–26 academic year, please complete the application form by clicking the purple button below. Once your application is received, our administration team will arrange a suitable teacher, subject to availability, and contact you with further information.

For current prices, see our Pricing and Payments page.

Payment can then be made via a ParentPay account which will be created, and login details sent to you. Or, you can pay by visiting the office during opening hours.

Financial Support

NMPAT are committed to ensuring every child has the opportunity to participate in the arts.  Find out how we can help support you and your family.