Academic Programs
Our Lessons
At Catalyst Music Lab, we turn your musical ambitions into reality. With personalized lessons in classical and contemporary styles, our one-on-one sessions make learning music an experience that's entirely yours. Be the Catalyst of Your Own Sound!
Acoustic Guitar
Whether you're taking your first steps with the guitar or advancing to higher levels of study, our RSL Acoustic Guitar syllabus is designed to elevate your playing ability, expand your technical skills, and deepen your understanding of music theory. You'll also enjoy learning and performing iconic tracks by artists like Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, and Eric Clapton, making your musical journey both enriching and enjoyable.
Who it's for
Students aged 5 and up, including adult beginners — from first-time learners to advanced players.
Skill levels
Beginner to Advanced (RSL graded)
Lesson format
Private one-on-one sessions, tailored to your pace and goals.
Benefits
- Play recognisable songs from early on
- Strong technical and theoretical foundations
- Confidence to perform solo or with others
What you'll learn
- — Chords and strumming patterns
- — Fingerpicking and fretboard knowledge
- — Rhythm, timing, and dynamics
- — Music theory through the RSL syllabus
- — Iconic repertoire from Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, Eric Clapton and more
Programme FAQs
Do I need my own guitar?
Yes, having an acoustic guitar to practise on is recommended. We can advise on a suitable first instrument.
Can I take exams?
Yes — we prepare students for RSL Acoustic Guitar graded exams, or you can learn simply for enjoyment.
Electric Guitar
Your journey to becoming an outstanding electric guitarist starts here! Using the RSL Rockschool syllabus, we'll cover everything from chords and scales to strumming, picking, fretting, and finger placement. The Electric Guitar grade will enhance your playing, boost your technical skills, and deepen your music theory knowledge — all while you learn and perform iconic tracks from top artists across various genres.
Who it's for
Students aged 5 and up, including adult beginners — from complete beginners to advanced players.
Skill levels
Beginner to Advanced (RSL Rockschool graded)
Lesson format
Private one-on-one sessions, tailored to your pace and goals.
Benefits
- Versatile rhythm and lead skills
- Improved technique and music theory
- A diverse repertoire for exams, leisure, and performance
What you'll learn
- — Chords, scales, and arpeggios
- — Strumming, picking, and finger placement
- — Fretboard knowledge and technique
- — Music theory through the RSL Rockschool syllabus
- — Iconic tracks across rock, pop, blues and more
Programme FAQs
Acoustic or electric?
Electric guitar lessons focus on the techniques and sounds unique to the instrument — we can advise on a suitable starter rig.
Can I take exams?
Yes — we prepare students for RSL Rockschool Electric Guitar graded exams, or you can learn simply for enjoyment.
Piano
Ready to take your piano skills to the next level? Our comprehensive lessons cover both ABRSM for classical piano and RSL Rockschool for contemporary styles, catering to all levels. Whether you're pursuing formal exams or learning for leisure, we emphasize essential music theory and technique. Our approach helps you read, interpret, and play music with confidence and expression, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable learning experience.
Who it's for
Students aged 5 and up, including adult beginners — from first-time learners to advanced students.
Skill levels
Beginner to Advanced (ABRSM & RSL Rockschool)
Lesson format
Private one-on-one sessions, tailored to your pace and goals.
Benefits
- Strong musical foundations
- Reading and theory skills
- Expressive, confident playing across classical and contemporary styles
What you'll learn
- — Proper hand technique and posture
- — Music reading and rhythm
- — Music theory foundations
- — Expression, dynamics, and phrasing
- — Repertoire building for exams or leisure
Programme FAQs
Do I need a piano at home?
A keyboard is fine to start. We'll guide you on the right instrument as you progress.
Can I take exams?
Yes — we prepare students for both ABRSM (classical) and RSL Rockschool (contemporary) graded exams.
Drums
Our drum lessons bring the thrill of drumming to life by teaching you to play, listen, read, and write music. Using resources such as drum books and RSL Rockschool materials, you'll master rhythms, patterns, and techniques in a fun and interactive way. Our lessons are designed to enhance your coordination and explore a variety of musical styles, including pop, rock, fusion, Latin and more.
Who it's for
Students aged 5 and up, including adult beginners — from complete beginners to advanced players.
Skill levels
Beginner to Advanced (RSL Rockschool graded)
Lesson format
Private one-on-one sessions, tailored to your pace and goals.
Benefits
- Improved coordination and focus
- A strong sense of timing and rhythm
- Confidence across diverse genres
What you'll learn
- — Rhythm and groove fundamentals
- — Hand and foot coordination
- — Stick technique and dynamics
- — Reading and writing drum notation
- — Styles: pop, rock, fusion, Latin and more
Programme FAQs
Do I need a drum kit to start?
No. Beginners can start on a practice pad. We'll advise on equipment as you progress.
Can I take exams?
Yes — we prepare students for RSL Rockschool Drum Kit graded exams, or you can learn simply for enjoyment.
Violin
Our RSL Classical Violin course provides a supportive and structured learning environment where students develop strong technique, musical understanding, and confidence. Through a carefully selected mix of classical and popular repertoire, students are guided step by step to enjoy learning, perform with assurance, and progress at their own pace.
Who it's for
Students aged 5 and up, including adult beginners — from first-time learners to advanced players.
Skill levels
Beginner to Advanced (RSL Classical graded)
Lesson format
Private one-on-one sessions, tailored to your pace and goals.
Benefits
- Strong technique and musical understanding
- A varied repertoire of classical and popular pieces
- Confidence to perform at your own pace
What you'll learn
- — Bow technique and posture
- — Intonation and tone production
- — Music reading and rhythm
- — Classical and popular repertoire
- — Performance confidence
Programme FAQs
Do I need my own violin?
Yes, having an instrument to practise on is recommended. We can advise on a suitable first violin and bow.
Can I take exams?
Yes — we prepare students for RSL Classical Violin graded exams, or you can learn simply for enjoyment.
Good to Know