Things to Know About Your Cello Group Classes

You will be learning in a small group of adult students with a total of 6 students per class.

These classes are designed for absolute beginners to the cello! No prior musical experience is needed.

You will be taught in a small, supportive, fun and engaging group environment.

Upon registration you will be sent further details including the cello tutor book to purchase for your lessons.

Our small classes will be taught by Sharon; a highly skilled and professional Melbourne cellist and cello teacher with over 35 years playing and teaching experience.

At the end of the first year of your learning you will be able to play simple pieces, read music and perform in your very first class concert!

Over the course of the year you will:

  • Learn the correct posture and essential playing skills including arco and pizzicato

  • Learn to read music and rhythm notation

  • Develop basic left-hand technique, playing across all 4 strings of the cello

  • Develop your sense of intonation and learn to adjust the notes as you play

  • Learn essential cello techniques in every lesson

  • Understand how to produce a clear and resonant tone, exploring dynamics and articulation in your playing

  • Learn basic scales, exercises and beginner pieces

  • Gain confidence playing solo and in a group setting

  • Have fun learning together in our small and engaging groups

No Cello Yet?

There are numerous options and music businesses around Melbourne where you can buy or rent a cello for a very reasonable cost.

Get in touch with us if you require further guidance as to how and where to arrange a cello for your use.

Please note the use of a cello should be arranged well in advance of your first group lesson.

Commitment to your Cello Classes.

Success in learning the cello requires expert tuition, consistency with lessons, dedication, regular practise, and time.

These cello lessons are designed for students to build a solid foundation of essential skills pertaining to a year of learning.

Our beginner cello group class program is designed to cover the span of a year of learning. The year long commitment is crucial for steady progress, skill development, and long term musical growth.

When applying, consider your availability and commitment to the duration of the program.

Please be sure that you are ready to commit to a year of learning before enrolling.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Learning the cello in a small group setting offers several advantages over private lessons, especially for adult beginners:

    • Lower Cost – Group lessons are more affordable than private tuition, making it easier to commit to learning over the long term.

    • Social and Supportive Environment – Playing music together builds a sense of community. Adults often enjoy the encouragement and camaraderie of learning alongside others on the same journey.

    • Motivation in Groups – Group members inspire each other to keep practising. Knowing you’ll be playing with others each week helps maintain momentum and motivation.

    • Ensemble Skills from the Start – Unlike private lessons, group classes give you the opportunity to listen, blend, and play in time with others—an essential skill for all musicians.

    • Shared Learning Experience – Students benefit not only from teacher feedback but also from observing and learning from classmates’ progress and questions.

    • More Fun! – Playing music together is inherently enjoyable and often less intimidating than performing one-on-one for a teacher.

  • Although we are unable to offer refunds for missed classes, you may be able to attend an alternative class for that week that runs at a different time slot.

    Any make up classes must be arranged with the teacher prior to attending an alternate day to ensure that your teacher can prepare for you.

    As a courtesy to the teacher, please provide prior notice if you are to miss a class. Your teacher will make contact with you in the week of absence and discuss via email what you have missed and what you can practise for the week.

  • A cello (with a case, rosin, cello stopper and pencil) that you can bring to class every week and take home to practice with.

    If you are buying or renting a cello make sure that you are sized up properly by a trained professional at any music shop. Most adults require a full size (4/4) instrument.

    A music tutor book (details will be provided upon registration) to be purchased either online or from any well stocked music shop.

    A music stand that can be used for both home and weekly classes.

    A firm chair with no arms at home to practice on. A standard dining room or kitchen chair is perfect.

    Detailed and helpful information will be sent out to students once they have confirmed their enrolment.

  • Elsternwick (Monday Evenings):

    St John’s Uniting Church (the East Room), Elsternwick.

    567 Glenhuntly Road, Elsternwick

    North Melbourne (Wednesday Evenings):

    North Melbourne Community Centre.

    49 - 53 Buncle St, North Melbourne

  • Students can form their own Whatsapp groups to chat and pass on any information in regards to their group lessons, homework, practise ideas or any other relevant information that group members may like to share.

    Emails will occasionally be sent out with important information throughout the year. Your teacher can always be contacted via email or the Whatsapp group chat.

    Email address: info@melbournecommunitycellists.com.au

  • Please read our Terms and Conditions.

  • We are unfortunately unable to go over our class capacities, as they are specifically tailored to learning and teaching in small group sizes.

    If you miss out on joining a class or you cannot find a class time that suits you, we will keep you informed of any new classes that may be starting soon.

If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for please send us an email