About your class
Make noise. Make friends. Make Music.
Thinking about joining a class, or already booked on? Here’s everything you need to know to feel ready, relaxed and excited to get started.
Whether it’s your first time picking up an instrument or you’ve been playing for years, Make Music is all about learning together, trying things out and enjoying the process.
Need a hand?
If you’ve got a question, want help choosing a class or just want to check something before you book, we’re here.
Email us: learning@theglasshouseicm.org
What to expect
Make Music classes are friendly, relaxed and welcoming spaces. No auditions, no pressure – just people coming together to play, sing, create and have a good time doing it.
You’ll be learning from experienced tutors, developing your skills and building confidence as you go, with opportunities to progress and grow over time. It’s not like school though; sessions are hands-on, practical and social, with plenty of time to play together, try new things and learn in a way that works for you.
And it’s not just about the music. People come for lots of reasons – to meet others, to switch off after work, to try something new, or to get back into something they love.
Good to know
- Staying in touch: sometimes things change – rooms, times or tutors – but we’ll always let you know in advance. Before your class we will send you a pre class email full of useful information about you upcoming lesson. Make sure your contact details are up to date so you don’t miss any important info.
- Public building closures: occasionally we host conferences that mean the building and car park may be busier than usual and certain areas of the building may have restricted access. You’ll need to enter from the doors on the Tyne Bridge side and follow a special route for to your class in the Foyle Music Centre on these days. There’ll be someone to show you the way – and a temporary café so you can still grab a cuppa.
Finding your level
Not sure where you fit? You’re not alone and we’re here to help. If you’re unsure, email learning@theglasshouseicm.org and we can share some advice or try a class and see how it feels.
Beginner
You’re completely new or just starting out. No experience needed, we’ll guide you through the basics at a comfortable pace.
Intermediate
You’ve got some experience and want to build on it. You might already play or sing a little and are ready to grow your skills.
Advanced
You’re confident in your playing and want to challenge yourself further, often working on more complex material.
Absolute beginner
Completely new to an instrument? This is the best place to start. Our On Demand courses (available for instruments like fiddle, guitar, sax and ukulele) are designed to take you through the very basics at your own pace. They’re a great way to build confidence before joining a group class, or as a refresher if you’re getting back into playing. Or you can join one of our mixed ability classes if you would rather play with others.
Types of classes
We offer a mix of ways to make music, depending on what you enjoy. Some of our classes are at The Glasshouse in our Foyle Music Centre, and some are available to join online from home, or wherever you are.
Tuition
Focus on developing your skills on an instrument or voice, with guidance from an expert Glasshouse tutor.
Bands and ensembles
Play together as a group often mixed instruments – from bands to choirs to larger ensembles. It’s all about collaboration, listening and making music as a team.
Peer led
These are groups that run without a tutor – just people who share a love for the same instrument or style, learning together, swapping ideas and supporting each other week by week.
Workshops and one offs
Single sessions to try something new, dive into a specific style or explore a new idea. Led by guest tutors and industry experts, these sessions bring fresh ideas, new sounds and a different way of thinking about music.
Online classes
For our on-demand classes, livestreams and virtual classes, we’ll send you all the details for how to join your class when you sign up. We host our virtual classes on Zoom.
Livestreamed sessions
Join from home while the session happens in the building. You’ll be able to see and hear the tutor and take part from wherever you are.
Make Music On Demand
Learn at your own pace, wherever suits you. Our online courses give you the chance to build skills, try something new or get back into playing, with expert guidance along the way. If you’re completely new to an instrument, this is a great place to start before joining a group class. Pay once and get access for a full year, so you can learn in your own time and come back to it whenever you need.
Virtual classes (live online)
These take place entirely online via Zoom. You join live as part of the session, taking part alongside the tutor and group in real time. These sessions aren’t recorded, so you’ll need to attend at the scheduled time.
Where your class takes place
Most classes happen in the Foyle Music Centre inside The Glasshouse. It’s our dedicated space for music-making. Rehearsal rooms, teaching spaces and a place where everything is set up for you to walk in and get started.
If you’ve visited for a concert before, this is a different part of the building – just down the stairs at the side of the café, or you can take the lift down.
If you get lost there is always a helpful member of our Customer Experience Team around to help you find your way. If a building visit would be useful to you before joining a class this can be arranged, just email learning@theglasshouseicm.org.
Instruments
For most classes, you’ll need to bring your own instrument.
We know that can feel like a big step if you’re just starting out – but you don’t need anything fancy, just something to get you going. If you’re not sure what to buy, there are lots of instrument hire options available online, and we’re happy to point you in the right direction if you need a bit of guidance.
For some classes, like band sessions, we’ll have things like drum kits or keyboards set up ready to use. And if you’re joining Beginner Ukulele, you can borrow one to get started.
Term dates
Our classes run in line with school terms, with breaks for half term.
Summer term 2025/2026
Term starts: week commencing Monday 13 April
No classes: 25–31 May (half term) and week commencing Monday 22 June.
Autumn term 2026/2027
Pre sale for existing participants: Wednesday 17 June
On sale: Wednesday 1 July
Term starts: week commencing Monday 21 September
No classes: 26 October – 3 November (half term)
Booking and flexibility
Most classes are booked as a full term (usually 5 or 10 weeks).
We know committing to a full term can feel like a lot, especially if you’re trying something new – so we keep things flexible.
If it’s not quite the right fit, you can:
- switch to another class, or
- request a refund for the remaining sessions within the first few weeks
So you can find what works for you without the pressure.
Make a day of it
One of the perks of Make Music is that it’s more than just a class. You can make a whole day of it or just drop in for your class.
Full day parking
You get discounted parking for the full day (£2.50), so you can take your time – grab a coffee, meet friends, or head into town before or after your session.
Cafe and Shop discounts
You’ll also get discounts in café, bar and shop with your Make Music membership card. We’re a cashless venue, so you can pay by card, phone or smart watch across the building.
