So far?

A month and a half of lessons.

Has it been FUN?

Have you noticed a difference?

Has your teacher noticed a difference?

Can you check in to see if you are happier with your playing?

Is there a new piece you can play since resuming in September?

Do you still need to try to do some work every day?

Do you need to focus in on the hard bits more?

We've got the ball rolling again.

It would be a shame to lose some ground over the holiday.

I ask loads of questions, I know. You could send me one, too, remember. Hz

Dear Hz...

The first of many, I hope - here's the first question sent into the "Dear Hz" slot by M.

Dear Hz. You would be so proud of my 14 year old son. He practises tenor sax at least 40 minutes every evening. The power of music has definitely taken over. Unfortunately, it is SO LOUD that I have to go outside and sit in the garden shed wrapped in a blanket with the dog and a wind-up radio. I know, I could put my son in the shed, but it's a bit rickety and I fear the noise would probably shake it to pieces. What do you suggest? Hopefully, M

Dear M,

It's great to hear your son's practising is going so well.

Well done to him!

Some instruments are louder than others.

Tenor sax can be one of the loudest.

Over time, your son will learn how to refine his sound and explore dynamics.

Things get pretty loud here sometimes.

That's when I go out for a spin.

How about you agree on an an hour when your son can let rip

while you go and take the dog for a walk?

Let me know how it goes. Hz