Where to start?

Four leading methods

Kodály: Children build enthusiasm and confidence as they learn to listen and sing in tune through singing songs and playing simple musical games, while also acquiring skills in tempo, rhythm, pitch and dynamics.

British Kodály Academy: kodaly.org.uk

Teneda: A piano-based system for learning perfect pitch: ‘parents who wish to train their child in this method must own a piano in excellent condition’.

Rob Young at Prodigies, however, uses desk bells as the primary instrument. We Hear & Play: wehearandplay.com/whatis.htm

Orff: Widely known for its use of singing and percussive instruments (pictured above), this method, which uses simple musical elements and also involves speech and dance, nurtures creativity through improvisation and rhythm. Orff UK: orff.org.uk

Suzuki: A teacher-focused method involving intensive listening and playing.

Suzuki believed that given proper training and the right learning environment all children could acquire what is often called ‘talent’ but he preferred to call ‘ability’. British Suzuki Music Association: britishsuzuki.org.uk