About Blockhouse Bay School of Music
A music school with long-term vision
Blockhouse Bay School of Music is a community-based private music school in Blockhouse Bay, Auckland.
We work mainly with children and teens aged 4–18, with some adult learners, and we focus on long-term, one-on-one music education that feels both serious and welcoming.
Over the past few years, we have grown from a small local studio into a school with a clear pathway: from playful discovery programs for young beginners, through to individual lessons, exams and advanced performance opportunities. Our goal is to be a trusted “home base” for music for families in our area – a place where children can grow up with music as part of their everyday life.
Our philosophy: music for life
We believe that music can shape a child’s confidence, character and sense of self
At Blockhouse Bay School of Music:
We see music as a long-term journey, not a quick result.
We value curiosity, enjoyment and courage, alongside accuracy and technique.
We believe every child deserves a chance to feel that “music is for me”, not just for the “talented few”.
Exams (ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool) are an important option, and we prepare students carefully when they choose that path. But we never let exams become the only goal. For us, exams are tools to support learning, not the definition of success.
Our teaching is built on three pillars:
Discovery – letting young children explore music in small groups, through play, movement and trying real instruments.
One-on-one learning – building solid technique, good habits and deep understanding with a dedicated teacher.
Performance and reflection – giving students chances to share their music, listen to others and grow in confidence on stage.
Why families choose Blockhouse Bay School of Music
We aim to combine the professionalism of a academy with the warmth of a local school. Families often tell us they choose (and stay with) BHSM because of:
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From Mini Musos and Intro programmes, to one-on-one lessons, exam support and masterclasses, families can see how their child can grow with us over many years.
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We use small-group classes only in the early discovery stage. Once students are ready, we move them into individual lessons where we can really focus on correct technique, personal goals and steady progress.
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We support ABRSM, Trinity and Rockschool exams, but we never push every student towards them. We discuss with each family whether exams suit their child, and we use them when they make sense – not out of habit.
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Our tutors are formally trained musicians with tertiary-level music qualifications, and just as importantly, they are patient, encouraging and child-friendly.
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We understand school timetables, homework and busy family life. We offer after-school and weekend options, clear communication and a practical, down-to-earth approach.
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We are proud to be part of the Blockhouse Bay and wider Auckland community. Many of our students come through local schools and word-of-mouth recommendations from other families.
Our concerts, events and highlights
Music is meant to be shared. Throughout the year, we offer many chances for students to perform and celebrate their progress in level-appropriate, supportive settings.
Some of our performance calendar includes:
• End-of-Term Concerts – smaller, informal concerts each term where students can try performing in front of a friendly audience.
• An annual End-of-Year Showcase Concert – a more formal event at a city venue such as St Matthew-in-the-City, where students can experience a “big stage” with lights, sound and a larger audience.
• Artistic Collaboration Concerts and other special events – opportunities for students to play with others, collaborate across instruments and participate in themed concerts.
• Occasional performances at community and school events, giving students the chance to share their music beyond the studio.
We aim to offer every student performance opportunities that suit their age, level and personality – from first-time performers who just need a gentle, safe stage, to advanced students preparing for major exams or auditions.
Looking ahead
Blockhouse Bay School of Music is still growing, but our direction is clear:
• To be a benchmark private music school for local families – organised, thoughtful and genuinely caring.
• To keep improving our programmes, training and performance opportunities so that students can grow with us from their first notes to their most confident performances.
• To remain a school that feels warm, human and easy to talk to, even as we become more established.
If you’d like to know whether we might be the right fit for your family, we’re always happy to talk. You don’t need to have it all figured out – just tell us a little about your child, and we’ll help you find a good place to start.
