Music can be especially important during the secondary school years, when young people are navigating academic pressure, changing identities, and increasing expectations. Learning an instrument gives teenagers a positive, creative outlet at a time when school and life can feel demanding. Music supports essential life skills such as focus, discipline, resilience, and time management, while also helping to reduce stress and build emotional wellbeing. Whether a student is starting music in their teens or looking for ways to stay engaged after earlier lessons, music provides a sense of purpose and achievement that extends well beyond the classroom.
From an educational point of view, learning music strengthens listening, memory, problem-solving, and analytical thinking; skills that directly support success across the school curriculum. Working towards grade exams can offer clear goals and motivation, helping students structure their practice and recognise progress. Music grades are widely respected by schools and demonstrate commitment, consistency, and academic ability. At higher levels, these exams can also contribute UCAS points, supporting college and university applications and strengthening future prospects.
Importantly, music isn’t just for those who want to become professional musicians. It is a healthy, enjoyable, and intellectually stimulating pursuit that helps teenagers explore their identity, express themselves, and find their own voice. Through ensemble playing, bands, and group music-making, students learn how to be part of a team, listen to others, and collaborate; while solo playing builds confidence, independence, and self-belief.
In my teaching, I focus on keeping teenagers motivated, supported, and genuinely engaged. I work with each student to choose repertoire that suits their interests, personality, and musical goals—whether that’s classical pieces, film music, jazz, or more contemporary styles. Together, we find a musical path that feels relevant and enjoyable, helping students build skills, confidence, and a lasting connection with music at a crucial stage of their development.
Teenagers and Jazz!
Jazz music is a powerful tool for developing both teamwork and individual confidence, making it especially valuable for secondary school students. Playing in a big band or jazz ensemble teaches young musicians how to listen closely, follow a conductor, lock in with rhythm sections, and understand their role within a larger group. Students learn responsibility, cooperation, and musical awareness -essential ensemble skills that build discipline and respect for others while creating a strong sense of belonging and shared achievement.
At the same time, jazz places equal importance on the individual voice. Through soloing and improvisation, students are encouraged to step forward, take creative risks, and express themselves musically. Improvisation helps teenagers develop confidence, decision-making, and the ability to think quickly and creatively in the moment. It removes the fear of “wrong notes” and replaces it with curiosity, problem-solving, and personal expression; skills that translate far beyond music.
Jazz also supports the development of deep musicality. By learning how to improvise, students gain a stronger understanding of harmony, rhythm, and structure, helping them connect theory directly to sound. Exploring scales, chord progressions, and style allows young musicians to shape their own musical identity while developing a solid technical foundation. In my teaching, I help students balance the discipline of ensemble playing with the freedom of improvisation, giving them the tools to thrive as confident team players and expressive individuals who truly understand the music they are making.