Music is for everyone, and it’s easy to begin your child’s journey with Shropshire Music Service.
Whether they’re brand new to music or already showing an interest, we’ll guide you through choosing an instrument, booking lessons, and finding the right opportunities to grow.
Our friendly team is here to make the process simple and supportive from the very first note.
Learning an instrument opens up a lifetime of creativity and confidence.
Our expert tutors teach a wide range of instruments in schools across Shropshire and at our centre in Shrewsbury.
Lessons are available one-to-one or in small groups, helping students develop at their own pace while having fun along the way.
You don’t need to buy an instrument to start learning.
Shropshire Music Service offers affordable hire so every child can enjoy music without the upfront cost.
From violins and flutes to brass, guitars, and percussion, our instruments are well maintained and easily available from our centre or via a music teacher.
Joining a group is one of the best parts of learning music.
Our county-wide ensembles, bands, and choirs bring young musicians together to rehearse, perform, and grow as part of a creative community.
From pop to orchestral to folk music, there’s something for every interest and level.
Singing builds confidence, expression, and joy.
Our vocal tutors work with students of all abilities, helping them discover their voice and strengthen their technique through engaging and inspiring lessons.
From pop to classical and of course, musical theatre, every style is welcomed and encouraged.
We believe music should be shared and celebrated.
Our workshops and events give students the chance to perform, create, and connect with others, from school concerts and county festivals to masterclasses with visiting musicians.
These experiences build teamwork, pride, and lasting memories.
Performing is one of the most rewarding parts of learning music. It builds confidence, teamwork, and pride as pupils share their achievements with others.
Through school concerts, local events, and county-wide performances, students experience the excitement of playing or singing together and the joy of being part of something quite special.
Keep an eye out for our performances throughout the year on our Events Calendar page.
Behind every great performance is a story worth sharing.
Our Stories & Spotlights feature pupils, tutors, and schools who make music part of daily life in Shropshire.
Discover the people, projects, and performances that show how music truly changes lives.
We know starting music lessons can feel like a big step, so we’ve gathered answers to the questions parents and carers ask most often.
Whether you want to know how to book lessons, hire an instrument, or help your child practise at home, you’ll find helpful guidance here.
If your question isn’t covered, our friendly team is always happy to help – just visit our contact page to get in touch.
Your child can choose from a wide range of instruments, including strings (violin, cello, double bass), woodwind (flute, clarinet, saxophone, oboe, bassoon), brass (trumpet, trombone, French horn, cornet, euphonium, tuba), percussion, guitar, ukulele, piano, and voice.
If you’re not sure where to start, our tutors can offer advice based on your child’s age, size, and interests. Many children try a few instruments before finding the one that suits them best. With our instrument hire scheme, there’s no need to buy right away – just the enthusiasm to give it a go.
Most lessons take place in school during the school day, so pupils can learn in a familiar and convenient setting. Alternatively, you can opt to have your child taught after school hours at our music centre in Shrewsbury.
Lessons are timetabled carefully so pupils don’t miss the same subject each week. We work closely with schools to make sure lessons fit smoothly into the school routine.
You can hire an instrument through Shropshire Music Service once your child’s lessons are confirmed. The lesson sign-up form includes a section for instrument hire – just tick the instrument your child would like to play.
Instruments are delivered directly to your child’s school or can be collected by arrangement. Each one is fully cleaned, serviced, and ready to play. If your child later wants to switch instruments or move up a size, we’ll make that happen quickly and easily.
Absolutely – most of our pupils start as beginners. No experience is needed. Our tutors are experts at helping children build confidence from the very first lesson, learning the basics in a relaxed, encouraging way.
Beginners learn how to read music, keep time, and produce their first clear sounds. Over time, they move on to pieces they recognise and start to play along with others. Lessons are about progress, not perfection – and always about enjoying the music.
Yes – we believe performing is a key part of learning. Pupils are encouraged to share their music in school concerts, community events, and county-wide performances organised by SMS.
Performing gives children a sense of achievement, teamwork, and pride in what they’ve learned. Whether it’s a small classroom performance or a big event at a local venue, every opportunity helps pupils grow in confidence and see just how powerful music can be.
