What you see - It is difficult to miss Philip’s School of Music in spite of its inconspicuous hoarding. That’s because the strains of music reach your ears even before you set your eyes on the small signboard. In fact, the music acts as a better advertisement, we believe. And just as it was in the folk tale of the Pied Piper, the captivating music convincingly lures you inside.
The moment we entered the school, we could not take our ears off the different kinds of tunes that were being practiced upon by students on the piano. We actually started wondering how each could concentrate on his/her tune with the other playing a different tune close by. Of course, we missed seeing the headset used by a student for the same purpose. But the others went about playing their tunes as if the only music that they could hear was what they were playing. Now that’s called perfect engrossment.
What you get - Philip’s School of Music trains students to play the guitar, violin, electronic keyboards, piano, drums and harmonica. It has about 150 students at present and prepares them for the Associated Board of The Royal Schools of Music examination which is considered to be the standard of classical music in London.
An entire eight-grade course in this regard would take about 4-5 years. While the first three grades are considered to be the foundation course, the next three are on par with the Intermediate education standards. The final two grades are advanced levels and are typically taken up by people who have a real passion for western classical music and are keen on making it their profession.
The school also trains students in non-classical music which may be pop, film songs, rock and the like. This, however, will not be affiliated to the Royal Schools of Music. Nonetheless, there are many takers for this kind of music, especially among the ones who consider music as a hobby or pastime. Apparently, the school has been getting many students from the software industry for these courses, either because they are inspired by what they see on television or are just looking for an outlet for their stress.
The most popular instruments among the students seem to be the piano, guitar and the electronic keyboards. The fees charged by the school are Rs. 1,000 per month for western classical music and Rs. 4,500 for non-classical music if it is a foundation course (approximately 4 months). For the advanced course, which would run for about 7 months, it charges Rs. 7,000.
Our verdict - MetroMela found the school uncluttered and spruced up with regard to its premises. The instruments seemed well-maintained and the methodology of teaching on an individual basis is worth emulating. The school is now also considering organizing concerts so that the students are encouraged to promote music as a way of life.
Unlike other music schools in the city, where students are requested to bring their own instruments (except if it is the piano), Philip’s School makes the provision. Besides, another unique feature is that it does not teach in groups. Individual attention is given to each student so that the learning process quickens its pace. It also does not encourage teaching students at their homes because it believes that the learning horizon can be widened only by listening to different kinds of music.
Drive to – Philip’s School of Music,
Road No. 11,
Jubilee Hills,
Hyderabad-500033.
Call at – 040-23556362, 64507599, 09346237599
Anytime between - 7 AM - 1 PM and 3 PM - 9 PM (Weekdays)
7 AM - 12 PM (Sundays)
Visit at - www.philipschoolofmusic.com
Posted on: Jan 19, 2007
