Hindhead Music Centre

Hindhead Music Centre

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Interested in learning more?

Hopefully the FAQs below will answer most of your questions, but if not, don't hesitate to get in touch!


How much does it cost?
Individual lessons are charged at £26.50 for 30 mins, or £53 per hour. Fees are payable at the start of term for a full term. We have a Budget Payment Scheme which allows you to spread the cost and pay by monthly Direct Debit.
I am (or my child is) a complete beginner!
No problem! Over the years hundreds of people - both children and adults - have started on their musical journeys at the Hindhead Music Centre. We'll find you a sympathetic and inspiring teacher to get you going, and soon you won't be a beginner any more!
Can I have a trial lesson?
Yes, we recommend that you take a trial lesson with your teacher. Unfortunately we are not in a position to offer free trials, so this will be chargeable at £26.50 for half an hour.
How long and how often are lessons?
For most students we recommend a 30-minute lesson once a week. Younger children may take slightly shorter lessons; and more advanced students would benefit from 45 minutes or longer. Many advanced students take an hour a fortnight.
What about school holidays?
We work in (usually) 11-week terms, with a one- or two-week break for half term. We try to match the state and private school termtimes as closely as we can, bearing in mind that (epsecially in the Summer term) they can differ by several weeks. Our term dates are advertised on our Diary page.
Do you cover every instrument?
Not quite! However after 50 years we have a good network of contacts and if we get enough enquiries for an instrument we can usually find a teacher prepared to visit Hindhead. If you're looking for lessons in one of the less popular instruments, please fill in our enquiry form and select the option to be put on our waiting list.
Can I start during a term?
Yes, of course. If we can find you a suitable slot in the timetable, you can start at any time.
Do I have to sign up for a full term?
Usually, yes, we ask you to book a fixed number of lessons per term, either weekly or fortnightly – otherwise timetabling becomes a nightmare. In certain circumstances and depending on timetabling flexibility, we can make other arrangements. If you're unable to commit to a full term, please get in touch to discuss your requirements.
What if I am unable to make a lesson?
If you miss a lesson, we still have to pay the teacher, so unfortunately we cannot refund your fees.
What if the teacher misses a lesson?
If your teacher is unable to attend through illness or other cause, he or she will try to make up the lesson at a mutually convenient time. If that is not possible, you will receive a credit against the following term's fees.
Who owns the Hindhead Music Centre?
The Hindhead Music Centre is a company limited by guarantee. This means that it has no shareholders and its aim each year is to break even, no more. If a small profit is made, it goes back into the business. The company was founded in 1975 by Ann Hughes-Chamberlain, who still (aged 95) keeps a watchful eye on operations to ensure her high standards are met!