How To Keep Up With Playing an Instrument
If you have ever played an instrument, or want to learn how to read and play music, this article is for you. As a classical flutist, I have struggled to maintain my hobby here in France. Through trial and error of trying various teachers with various methods, I have compiled a list of fun strategies to continue the study of music abroad!
If it has been a while since you have even touched a piece of music, it might be helpful to find a compatible teacher. Trying to contact an orchestra might seem intimidating, but there is a huge community of musicians available for private lessons often at an affordable price. Whether you are interested in musical theory or improvisational studies, these websites have extensive lists of verified teachers.
Image credit: Unsplash/Marius Masalar
Apprentus is a website that connects you to teachers in your area. There, you can specify what instrument you would like to learn, or that you play, and a long list of verified teachers will appear from a large range of backgrounds. The prices for each lesson range on each teacher. Apprentus is used all over Europe, and many international music students teach lessons. If you want to join a jazz band, chamber orchestra, or just find like-minded amateur musicians, your teacher is a good contact for finding just that. Many music students in Paris conduct amateur groups in the conservatories inside Paris and on the outskirts.
Superprof is a similar website and many teachers can be found on both sites. Unlike Apprentus, Superprof often offers a free first lesson. It is also a French website, therefore the teachers are more often than not, French. This could be a fun way of not only improving your musical skills but also your French as well. These teachers are also great connections to integrating yourself into the French music scene.
Image credit: Unsplash/Lucas Alexander
Once you have found a teacher, you don’t have to relive your middle school band experience, but the music you learn is up to you! If you love jazz, folk, classical, or you want to browse different genres, the choice is yours. Although AUP does not offer a music program, there is a safe space for anyone to practice their instrument. Just don't forget to reserve access to the music room with an individual appointment on AUP Engage.
