FAQ

We want to join a band. How do we sign up?

If kids want to join band rehearsals, they need a basic knack for musical teamwork – like being able to listen to other instruments and play along in harmony with others.

Putting a band together is all about the right mix of people and timing; it takes a little bit of “destiny” and some careful planning by our teachers. When the right teammates appear, forming a band is a natural next step.

That is why we typically suggest that every new child at MIDIDREAM starts out in our Ukulele or Guitar Sing-Along Group. Through this, they can gently build up their group playing skills while keeping an eye out for a band opening.

If your child is interested in playing keyboard or drum in a band, feel free to reach out to us directly. We are happy to evaluate their skills and find the best fit for them.

What age group is this program suitable for?

Our music programs are designed for children who are ready to participate in group activities, collaborate with peers, and immerse themselves in collaborative creation.

Each session typically lasts around one hour, so children should be comfortable staying engaged throughout the entire process.

Most of our participants are 7 to 8 years old and above. However, we warmly welcome younger children if they demonstrate a strong interest, good focus, or advanced musical abilities.

Can my child participate if they are a total beginner?

Of course! If our approach resonates with you and your child, we would love to have them.

For kids with zero musical experience, teachers will give them easy-to-learn parts in the ensemble, like the bassline, a steady rhythm, or a basic melody. As they grow more confident, they will progress to challenging elements like solos or singing harmony. Here at MIDIDREAM, every single child gets to experience the joy of music through playing along, active listening, and collective songwriting.

Do you offer grade exam preparation courses?

We believe that music, much like language, grows naturally through interaction and collaboration with others.

Rather than breaking music down into isolated technical skills for standardised test training, we focus on real-world musical experiences, empowering children to grow through collaboration, active listening, creation, and sharing.

Therefore, we do not provide music grading or certificate exam preparation.

Do you organize recitals?

We don’t organise traditional recitals. Instead, we prefer to immerse children in authentic music scenes where they can connect or jam with other musicians-such as performing at music festivals or open mic events.

At the same time, we use professional recording and video to document their musical performances and growth at different stages.

I’m not sure if my child will be interested, or if this is the right fit for them.

That is completely fine; we might not be the perfect fit for every child.

We encourage parents to take some time to browse through our website to understand what we do and how we run our activities before deciding if it aligns with your child.

Our time and available spots are limited, and we choose to dedicate our energy to young musicians and families who truly share and embrace this musical philosophy.

When and where do the activities take place?

Our activities are located in the Halswell area of Christchurch.

Class schedules vary depending on the specific group and program, so times are flexible and subject to change rather than being fixed.

What are the teachers’ qualifications and backgrounds?

Yujing is an independent musician, and Jo brings extensive, senior experience in computer music production and multitrack recording technologies.

Over the years, both teachers have conducted music education across diverse environments, including China’s Midi School of Music and the Douban Guitar Club in China. They have also contributed to multimedia music elective courses in collaboration with Tsinghua University and provided technical support for various independent artists and bands.

Alongside teaching, Yujing has a history of performing and collaborating in the folk and rock music scenes, participating in album recordings, and continually writing, recording, and releasing original songs.

The expertise they share at the MIDIDREAM Music Lab comes not just from teaching itself, but directly from their firsthand experience making music with others, performing on stage, producing in the studio, and continuing their active practices as professional musicians.

Is there a waitlist?

Because we are balancing other music and art projects simultaneously, our available spots are quite limited.

As a result, short-term waitlists do occur from time to time. If there is no suitable opening at the moment, we will keep your contact details on file and reach out to you as soon as a spot becomes available.

How should we choose and purchase instruments and matching equipment?

Every child is unique. Once your child joins our Lab, we will assist you in finding the right instruments and purchasing options based on their specific interests, physical development, and the group activities they are involved in.

Can we get a refund if we withdraw?

Because our class sizes are very small and each group is carefully planned and assembled, we do not offer refunds once the term has officially started.

---