Music enhances creativity

To tell you the truth, I took up music lessons when I was 4. Started wt Yamaha group lesson (Junior Music Course) and continued until form 1.For individual music lessons (ABRSM)...I started later when I was 7.Usually, many will ask me why I learn both Yamaha and ABRSM practical; my answer is very simple. Both syllabus although is different but....actually it goes hand in hand. =)

I am sure most are familiar with the ABRSM system, so let me share with you about the Yamaha music education. Start with JMC(2 years), then JXC (Junior Extension Course...2 years) and finally JAC (Junior Advanced Course...4 years).The Yamaha Examination System is a bit different, starts wt Grade 9 then ends with Grade 6 (not including the senior music course..ideally for those planning to do music as a career).
Similarities wt ABRSM: Sight reading and repertoire piano playing
Differences: Improvisation and Melody Hearing

The approach used in teaching and learning differs greatly fr the passive style you experienced in individual lessons. For starters, lessons are conducted in a small group. We can play ensemble together on the organ/electone. This means that one can explore the wonders of the electone ( the best hi tech instrument I can say...strings,wind,brass instrument sound and pitch can be produced instantly; there's variety of programmed beats like chacha,swing,rock,pop,ballad) .

I gained alot from the melody hearing training.This helps me for my ABRSM oral test. We had group singing too.Parents(my mum for my case) will accompany, learn together and play their part at home until at a certain stage where we are supposed to learn independently.

For Improvisation, I can transpose from one key to another instantly thanks to Yamaha; play my favourite pop song without having the need to search for the music score :) can save some money; arrange any song according to my style...I have very short fingers (most original scores I can't play,got to improvise to suit my short fingers).This skill was applied during my primary and secondary school years as a pianist/keyboardist be it for choir, performance or major school functions esp when they do not have any music score but still needs someone to play it.:)

Most importantly, Yamaha music education has successfully instill the joy of music in my heart.