Testimonials
Guitar, bass, drum, keys, vocal and uke lessons are fun at The Musical Box – but don't take our word for it… read below and click here to see some of the teachers and students videos in lessons!
T’s had a brilliant five years with Tim and has learned a huge amount. I’m hugely grateful not only for his kindness and support in what has been a tough few years for him, but also his mentorship.
I will not hesitate to recommend TMB!
EA 01/10/24
BM - 1/10/24
An amazing email today (which made my day!!) from the parent of one of our singing students about our teacher James. "We are absolutely thrilled with what {our daughter} has achieved and how much she enjoys her sessions. James is a very talented and approachable teacher who inspires his students."
JA - 06.05.22
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Singing lessons at TMB - "I'd like to say, what a pleasure it's been to meet James and [my son] has really enjoyed his lessons with him. Thanks again to you all.
LH - 02.03.22
In response to our band days and composition days at TMB in half term - "Hi TMB, I just wanted to drop you a message to say how much my son enjoyed the band day today. He’s come home on cloud nine, so happy and excited. He says he can’t wait for the next one. Thank you so much for organising such a wonderful event."
EC - 04.06.21
"CSS wanted me to get in touch and ask if you could pass a message to Gareth, at the weekend she found out she got a distinction in her drum exam. She is super excited and said she was not expecting it. She has come so far in the time she’s been with you guys and is super proud of herself, as are we. Thank you all for all your hard work."
CS - 26.04.21
Even video lessons at TMB are second to none..... look at what one mum said after a video lesson last night -
"My son was visibly buzzing after his online lesson today. He was chuffed with his progress. Thank you so much!"
PS 18.02.21
"I just wanted to say thank you. We've been so impressed at the way you guys have dealt with the ups and downs of the past 10months. The support of Jack, Toby and Lottie has been exceptional. The switch to online lessons was so easy and provided the boys with much needed continuity. All three of my boys look forward to their lessons and are always smiling at the end of them. I couldn't ask for more.
Take care and stay safe"
KW. 09.02.21
"Hi Tim, Thanks for all your hard work in keeping lessons going. We really appreciate how difficult it is!"
MC 04.02.21
"Tim - Thank you for the video lesson and music sheets. We appreciate your time and effort put into each lesson. Our son is really enjoying it! Take care"
NL 03.02.21
"I want to tell you that after every lesson, my son always talks about how much he likes you. He says you're not just a great drum teacher, you are also super nice! Thanks for being someone he can look up to!"
MC 25.01.2021
"My son loves it! Thanks for being a great teacher and giving him such a cool environment to learn in. It's been a tough year and you and all at TMB have been ACE. Let's hope next year we can get back to normal"
LG 22.01.2021
"You guys have been fantastic over the time we have been with you. We are also very thank full for the video call lessons you have continued to provide throughout these strange times".
SG 20.07.2020
Having changed our policy in April reagrding cancellations and make-up lessons from allowing one re-arranged lesson per stuent per block to sending video lessons for every lesson missed, we have received several positive comments such as this response:
"Good to know about the video lesson for when they’re poorly or away - great solution".
JM 20.07.2020
TMB: "Our new policy means he will not miss the lessons though (yay!) as we will record a video for him to work through when he has finished partying!!"
VC: "Wow, that is brilliant – thank you very much!"
VC 17.07.2020
"I trust you are well. TR was so excited last night after her lesson bless her. I am just checking to see if there is a open slot for her next week; she doesn't want to wait another 2 weeks".
JR 09.07.2020
Thank you for your patience dealing with J and us. He displays as a confident out going child, but really he is a ball of anxiousness. The guitar wasn’t for him... but singing it would seem is his thing. Yesterday he left home for the lesson cross, anxious and returned singing! Thank you for all the dedication you show behind the bright lights and allowing these kids to find their happy place. I am very grateful.
AM 24.06.20
Thank you for your message. It makes us so happy xx
NL 4.05.20
"The Musical Box is an absolutely fantastic team of inspiring teachers. Students are engaged in lessons and can’t wait to attend each week. The opportunity to get involved in some of their own events such as Box Fest also encourages children to showcase and share their fantastic achievements! As a teacher who works very closely with The Musical Box, every member feels like part of my team and not simply teachers who visit weekly. All teachers are approachable and keep me regularly updated with the progress of the students. They adapt their teaching to suit all abilities from complete beginners starting out in year 7, to advance players completing their GCSEs at year 11. The office staff are also incredibly willing to ensure all our needs are accommodated and they will always work with me to provide the best possible opportunities for all of our students. Would absolutely highly recommend The Musical Box to any school!" - Stratford upon Avon School Music Dept.
Thanks so much Hannah. We love working with you guys and do feel like part of the team x
Lovely comment about our 'new' video lessons from a parent of a student - Thanks NS
"I was slightly apprehensive about F's lessons today but Lottie, as always, rocked it and him into action! Jaffa cake overload, but hey, who cares? Great job guys, and Lottie. See you next week.
NS 24.3.2020
'It's great to see the enthusiasm of the Musical Box band and our children thoroughly enjoyed the demo assembly today'
Jane Tailby- Headteacher Bridgetown School - 23.10.2020
Tim, Paula, Guy, James + everyone else there this evening. You guys are probably all still at it - as ever - unsung(sorry!) heros. I've got to say thanks for another great BoxFest - a thoroughly enjoyable event. It is great to see universal inclusion and the sheer quality of the talent (both students AND staff!) in one event. You are doing something special there. Well done. It's nearly time for your summer break. Enjoy it. We'll all be back next year. thanks Dan 22.07.2019
Dear Dan - This email means so much. It is hard work, a long day, but we love seeing everyone play and music brings all of us together.
Just so you know, I am really happy with Bethany and G has settled with her really well. I am also pleased that Beth is looking at exams and dates with her. Bethany really sees potential with G and is very encouraging. G really enjoys working with her.
Beth is a real credit to the Musical box.
N Patrick - 28.01.19
Merry Christmas and Thanks Tim
Chocolate biscuits definitely well deserved at TMB!!! Hope you have a few left!! Thanks for always making us feel welcome at TMB. Hope you all have a fantastic Christmas break
S Smith 18.12.18
Dear TMB, My son is playing bass for the first time in the school Christmas concert next week, and drum kit for Bletchingdon Silver Band training band in their concert - including Bon Jovi livin on a prayer. This is all thanks to you at the Musical Box for giving him the confidence to have a go.
RMCN 6.12.18
We attended the first TMB Masterclass last week and thought it was well organised with interesting & useful info about different genres. It was well adapted for beginners and the more experienced so everyone enjoyed it and gained something. I gained more knowledge about different musical styles & how to play them. There was a good balance of theory and practical.
Thanks TMB
Zach W - 26.1018
Hi TMB, I will be moving to Devon soon so need to stop lessons. Please thank Scott for his patience and for trying to help get my fingers moving in the right direction. I have made a great deal of progress in understanding and playing the electric guitar since starting regular lessons and I am very grateful to him for that.SP 16.10.18I am so pleased to hear that EB is making good progress. It is down to Gareth's super teaching and patience too!Have a lovely weekend.EB 12.10.18
My son enjoys his lessons and always comes out with a smile on his face! Many thanks to Gareth for making his drum lessons so enjoyable.
MS 12.10.18
TMB a great place to study and to grow your inner musician. Lovely teachers who really care about their students and just a well-run school! Thank you for all you do!
LK 17.9.18
A fantastic place to learn music. All smiles here!
JW 15.9.18
Thank heavens we found The Musical Box! What a brilliant, professional and caring company they are. Any difficulty, such as unable to make a lesson an alternative date can be quickly and easily agreed. Our son loves his singing lessons, they are what he most looks forward to in life. Since starting with TMB earlier this year he's a much happier boy with something to really look forward to each fortnight. His teacher is kind, supportive and good fun, our son is learning so much, values the guidance and is enjoying working hard to better himself. Given our son suffers with anxiety, going to TMB to sing has helped him so much. He can relax and be himself. A massive thank you to Brad and the TMB team for all that you do
RJ 15.9.18
Brilliant, friendly, and well run, The Musical Box welcomes all ages and standards. Tim, Paula and all their staff clearly have a passion for what they do. Having been inspired to 'have a go' when my children were having drum, guitar and keyboard lessons I am still there playing my guitar seven years later!
CS 14.9.18
Tim and his teachers are a talented bunch - very in tune with children and teenagers. They are fantastic at bringing out the best in them, and harnessing and nurturing their interest and enthusiasm. My daughter learnt drums, guitar and bass here for several years and she is now at BIMM in Manchester (Europe’largest music college) doing a music performance degree. She credits Tim and his teachers for their inspiration and encouragement.
5 stars! MGM 14.9.18
In tune with what music is today and a truly welcoming environment, this is the music school to choose. So helpful when we need to move a lesson to another time slot or to try different strategies for my son to learn based on his strengths. So happy I found you!!!!
GH 14.9.18
My son learnt drums at The Musical Box and really enjoyed his lessons and the performances. Whilst taking him to lessons my husband noticed there was a free slot and took up the Bass, latterly moving onto the Guitar, he really enjoys his weekly session with Guy at the Stratford studio
CS 14.9.18
I have just been chatting with my daughter who has singing lessons at the school and I was touched by what she said to me. She has struggled with her self confidence recently and with the support of Brad (her teacher) and the team was able to perform in public for the first time recently at the Boxfest concert. It has made a world of difference to how she feels in so much as she was able to stand up and perform in public and she could not be more grateful to Brad....he was amazing on the day of the performance and supported her all the way through. Tim and Paula we thankyou for creating such an amazing school and giving talented people the opportunity to shine!
JH 14.9.18
We love The Musical Box! We first went along simply because they had the nearest drumming teacher to us but, from the first moment we walked through the door, we realised that these weren't just your average music lessons. These were awesome music lessons! Now we have 2 guitarists and a drummer in the house, who all look forward to their lessons and take their practice seriously. It's great that the lessons run through the school holidays so there's real continuity. Plus, if we find we're busy and need to rearrange a lesson, Tim, Paula and the teachers always do their best to accommodate us provided we give them enough notice.
KB 14.9.18
Incredible music school!!! Highly recommend for all ages. Such a great place to learn!
JW 13.9.18
A lovely comment from a students mum about BoxFest 18- "What a super afternoon thank you so much. My daughter was so pleased with herself as it was a first for her and please pass on our thanks again to Brad who was so supportive. It is a joy to watch so many talented people enjoying themselves so much! " Awww Thanks. We loved watching everyone too. So proud of all of them!!
From a mum - I am so pleased with R*** - to let you know - since taking drum lessons with you he has gained enough confidence to re-join the village silver band (who originally taught him to read music and and to play the cornet, but he never played in the band due to nerves or dis-interest). He is now playing percussion for the training band and has played at one school fete so far. And yesterday he signed up for 2 after-school clubs - 'classic rock music' & 'playing in a band' - he has never wanted to do anything after school before. Oh, and I forgot that he also started bell-ringing for the church earlier this year and is now almost ready to ring with the main group following a few months of 1:1 training.Thank you TMB for inspiring R*** and giving him the confidence he needed.Looking forward to Boxfest.RM 21.06.2018
We spoke to a customer today who had just had an intro lesson at Stratford upon Avon studio who's comment on exiting the lesson was " Brilliant, Jack's the man for me!"
SH 7.11.2017
My son and husband have been having drum lessons for the last year. They have both made fantastic progress thanks to the superb teaching! It is also a cool place hang out. I love having the chance to make myself a cuppa and chill out using the free WiFi or reading a magazine whilst the boys have their lesson. I would definitely recommend The Musical Box ( in fact I already have!). Elspeth. 14.09.17
My daughter absolutely loved her singing and drum lessons at The Musical Box. The teachers are all amazing. We loved how supportive everyone was. Emma the vocal coach thoroughly supported Olivia through the audition process to Drama School with huge success. I cannot recommend The Musical Box enough.
Sam Barnett-Legh 13.9.17
I have been attending the Musical Box for drum and piano lessons. Very friendly place with excellent teachers, who make you most welcome and are extremely experienced with the instruments that they teach. If you have always wanted to take up a musical instrument, then this is the place for you!
Ed Pearce - 13.9.17
A welcoming and relaxed studio environment and most important, inspiring teachers with a flexible approach who really understand their students and want them to love their music-making.
Helen -8.9.17
They have the best teachers here for children as well as adults (it's never too late to learn), a great range of lessons and a great atmosphere - staff are always friendly and helpful.. which makes for learning fun. So pleased I discovered TMB - thank you!
DC- 8.09.17
Set in the beautiful countryside just outside of Stratford-upon-Avon, this music school offers fantastic tuition and brilliant facilities. Everybody is so welcoming and friendly. A great project to get involved in both as a student, wanting to learn an instrument or vocals, or as a tutor!
Brad - Singing teacher 12.09.17
Brilliant school with enthusiastic and talented musicians. Our son loves every lesson and comes out full of passion for the drums. Cannot recommend The Musical Box highly enough!
DP - 11.09.2017
Brilliant music school for all ages. My sons learnt guitar, keyboard and drums over several years and I was inspired to take up guitar myself ... the inspiring teachers have proved it's never too late to learn something new! Great set up and location with plenty of parking and even room for parents to wait for their children in comfort while making themselves a cup of tea or coffee!
CS - 4.09.17
Hi, My daughter said when we left on Monday that it was her best lesson so far. She really did come out with more confidence. See you next week xx
SJ - 18.05.17
At TMB we have been in the process of doing our annual teacher appraisals 2017. I have only analysed one teachers client reports so far and this is what clients have said - I am very proud of this...... this is what TMB is ALL about!!
- My child absolutely loves her teacher.
- Our TMB teacher always challenges my child
- The progress from when we started lessons to now; 2 years later, is massive!
- The office staff always try to help when I need to change.
- Easy to contact TMB by phone or email
- I am 100% happy with everything – NO NEED TO IMPROVE
- My child is always upbeat after lessons
- Since starting lessons 3 months ago, we can already see more confidence and hear a much better tone.
- Impressed with the facilities
- Tim is very approachable and friendly
- Paula is very efficient
- I have seen an improvement in the selection of biscuits since last year so I am very happy.
- My singing lessons are the highlight of my week!!
15.5.17
From a parent on the phone-
"Joey is just such as lovely person who is full of useful information that flows out of him at every lesson. He is so welcoming and my son just adores coming to the studio and spending an hour learning bass with Joey!"
HWB - 4/517
From one of the heads of music at a school we work in said this this week -
"The school secretary was very complimentary about The Musical Box, particularly Emma; the vocal teacher, who was described as very professional when working at the school. Emma also seems to know how the school runs so can find students and be in the right place at the right time. She is also always very pleasant." Aww..... thanks -
SB - Deddington School
7.3.17
From a students mum when they moved abroad - "My son enjoyed his lessons a lot. He would always shout ‘Yay!’ when he found out it was a Wednesday and I would say ‘Why are you so happy that it is Wednesday?’ and he would say, ‘Because on Wednesday I have a guitar lesson with Scott!’ Please pass on our thanks to Scott and we wish you all the best with the future of the Musical Box.
ES - 16.01.17
"Loving this place! At the age of 50 (!!) I decided to stop messing around with the guitar and take it seriously (mid-life crisis??? Whatever!!!) Anyway it's been great so far. Scott is a brilliant teacher. You can only get so far with YouTube, DVDs and books. You 100% need a 1 to1 teacher if you want to take it seriously. My fingers are sore from practising...but it's very rewarding."
Iain D - 19.7.16
This is from one of our teachers!
Paula, I wanted to let you know about an amazing lesson that happened at Stratford High school last week. I met with Oliver, and we had a great breakthrough. He matched pitch with the piano more than he ever has before, managed to get through all of the warm ups I threw his way, AND he prepared a new piece that was sung SO well. Oliver left absolutely elated by the success he felt during this lesson.
I am still elated myself, from everything!
Emma x 09.05.16
Awwwwwww. Emma - you are amazing and so is OLIVER - Massive congrats Oliver. You should feel so proud of yourself..... singing isn't easy, no musical instrument is.... it takes hard work and perseverance.... and you did both! Well Done from TMB xxxx
He is studying music GCSE so is keen to develop his music skills. So we would like to forward his school details to you in the hope that Cherwell school will consider having you over. We look forward with interest and hope.
You really are so much more than a music lesson and offer the creativity, dynamic and fun that is absent from his school lessons.
Thank you very much
ST- 27.4.16
Matt, I would like to thank you for all your hard work and patience with me over the last few months. I am so grateful for all the tutoring I have had with TMB staff and want you to know that I will continue tinkling away at home with the knowledge that I have gained from you. Many many thanks for enabling me to at least be able to play something recognisable, which I never thought would happen. With very best wishes to you for continued success." J x 16.03.16
Great fun. Thanks...
I just wanted to let you know that Olivia really loved her lesson tonight with the new singing teacher Emma, she came home so excited she hasn't stopped singing all night !!!!
Sam - 08.12.15
Singing teacher Holly was a real hit with her pupils this week, thank you TMB. Students went home 'BUZZING' ".
Thanks Dormer House School - 18.9.15
Just wanted to say thanks so much for the consistancy you have provided our pupils over the last acedemic year. This is something we have struggled with in the past when using other music providers so it has been great for our students to receive the consistancy you have provided. Thanks TMB
Henley School 10.9.15
Hi there, just wanted to say thanks for sorting out the band on Saturday. I think they really enjoyed it and the guests were well impressed!
Maybe now they've have had the taste of it they will want to do it again some time? We can have them headlining at "Dornstock" before too long!!
Sarah 18/5/15
Dear Tim, Paula & Guy,
Just wanted to say that the band were great and we were so impressed with them all. Cant wait for the next gig!
Lisa & Nick x 19/5/15
C Peake - 9.04.15
Tim, It was great to meet you and Henry yesterday - and my daughter really enjoyed her lesson. She talked all the way home about treble clefs and bass clefs and how she had learned 3 notes, then practised as soon as she got back home, so if enthusiasm is anything to go by we might have a promising future with the piano.
S Hodgson 29.04.15
So, needless to say, we would like to continue for the whole 8 week blockMy son is loving the lessons from you guys and wants to become a singer/songwriter!
A Lucero - 13.04.15
Sofia is growing in confidence every lesson and Bryony is carefully choosing songs that will challenge her in the right ways. Bryony is friendly, gives good feedback and is obviously tuned in to Sofia's particular strengths and weaknesses. Thanks TMB.
Julie 14.3.2015
Once again I'll say how amazing the whole experience at TMB has been - The facilities are top notch and Mark is absolutely awesome. Very patient (he has to be with me!), motivational and its always fun. In particular, when I unexpectedly had to start my new course he went above and beyond to be accommodating. I'm already learning some songs for the summer party! Bring on the sun.
Ollie B - 1.3.15
The Musical Box have been providing tuition in guitar, bass, drums, piano/keys and (most recently) singing at Stratford-upon-Avon School since 2011, with some group workshops supplied as required. We have at least one of their experienced and hugely enthusiastic teachers in nearly every day of the school week, all of who have gained superb results from our students, both in terms of grades achieved and engagement with instrument lessons. The service and communication from their administrative team has been similarly impressive, working with our staff members to ensure seamless tuition from week-to-week, term-to-term and year-to-year – not an easy task in a school of this size.
Regarding quality provision of musical instrument and vocal tuition in a school environment, I cannot recommend The Musical Box highly enough.
My son really likes drumming and so we will have to rethink about cricket (which he also likes)...We think Alex is a really good teacher and both my boys really enjoy his lessons.
Bridgetown Parent - 08/01/2015
Dear All, My son's been really into the keyboard over the holidays. I'd like to say he's practiced diligently (!) but he's certainly been playing the carol service piece and other party pieces with increased enthusiasm. Thanks
Bridgetown Parent - 07/01/2015
Paula, Thanks for the Christmas Party yesterday, we had a lot of fun Looking forward to the next set of lessons with Mark! Really enjoying it!
Ollie - Fritwell - 15.12.2014
Our singing teacher is Bryony from The Musical Box LTD - you should contact Paula asap as I know they're getting booked up already. I cannot recommend their teachers highly enough as they've been getting superb results from our students.
Mr D - Stratford-Upon-Avon School - 5/12/14
Both Siena and Adam had a very enthusiastic and great response to your rock session at Bicester Studio today – thanks!
SE - 31.10.2014
The teaching I have received from Adam has been exceptionally super. He is very patient with me and he is excellent at building up my confidence in piano playing.
Vickie Loh - 28/10/14
My daughter really enjoyed her piano lesson this week and I thought Henry was brilliant. Long gone are the days of boring music lessons with an ancient teacher - I remember my own school experiences! Thanks Musical Box
Mrs Smith - 13/10/14
We really enjoyed the Summer party and student performances yesterday and were most impressed not only by the school and facilities but even more so by the manner and calibre of the teachers. It was evident in the relaxed performances by the students. You could just see they were having a ball! Thanks for the invitation Love to you all
Ivor and Julie - 11/08/2014
Just finished my second course of drum lessons and wanted to say a big thank you to Tim for all the encouragement and tuition, as well as the laughs! If you're thinking of having a go at learning to play an instrument, then I would highly recommend The Musical Box. I've always wanted to try it but never had the courage - thank you for helping me to try something new that has given me a sense of achievement and much enjoyment. Just need to keep practising!
Jayne Mottram - Aug 14
TMB is an awesome place to have music lessons!! I've been having drum lessons for the past few months and I'm really glad that I found TMB online. Not only does each lesson really help to improve my technique and my ability, they are also really good fun! I've been learning different skills and techniques at the same time as learning songs; this is an exciting way to learn as I can play along to some of my favorite songs! I now actually look forward to Mondays because of my drum lessons!
Hannah - May 14
Our son George has been learning electric guitar with Guy since the New Year and boy is he doing well!! Guy has him practising his chords and grade pieces, but also doing really cool things like F1 theme tune, James Bond, James Blunt, Smoke on the Water.....the list goes on. We are both really jealous that our 10 year old is officially cooler than we are......he loves practising, he finds it really fun and can't wait for each weeks lesson. What ever you are doing it works!! Thank you.
Wendy - May 14
TMB has been keeping a passion for music alive in our house for over 5 years. Anyone who can get a pair of horizontal teenage boys to practise without nagging deserves rich praise - a true testament to Henry and his incredible enthusiasm and talent. Can't thank you enough.
J. May 06/05/14
My daughter has been having lessons at The Musical Box for a couple of years now. She started off learning electric guitar, but has enjoyed them so much, she's now learning drums and keyboards too. She gets so much out of her music lessons - they help her to de stress and unwind after school, and the teachers at TMB make the lessons enjoyable and fun. She practices all her instruments because she is inspired by the music choices the teachers make for her. Thank you Musical Box - 5 big stars to all.
Mrs M Graham-Martin - May 2014
Our 10 year old has been having piano lessons with Henry for three years and loves it. He gets to play a beautiful baby grand every week and, alongside working through the grades, he always has a pop song on the go (so far he has learned ‘feelin’ good’, ‘Rolling in the Deep’, Sweet Child of Mine’, ‘Grenade’ and ‘Set Fire to the Rain’ and is about to tackle ‘Honky Tonk Woman’). Sometimes they both let rip as a duet with Henry providing extra twiddles on the keyboard and singing. This is Henry’s magical ingredient: it’s not all hard slog with just grades as distant rewards; Henry’s cool, they have a wail of a time and my son has some ‘show-off’ pieces to impress whoever comes to the house.
Chrissy Wainwright - May 2014
Hi Paula,
Thank you for yesterday at your Bicester studios. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The atmosphere was just perfect and standard of music superb as always. All the teachers are a great bunch of characters. Your sons are scrumptious as well. So much fun!
Tracey Wild - 16/12/2013
You were utterly BRILLIANT last Thursday - thank you so much for making the evening so great - without you all it wouldn't have been half as much fun. Great music; utterly toe tapping (and fun to see Max too)
Best thanks to you all,
Juliet x
Juliet Carron - Kitebrook House - Halloween Hog Roast organiser - Oct 31st 2013
'After your lesson my sister Becky could not stop tapping on things. Soooooo annoying… thanks Tim'
We love our music lessons here. Tim is a great teacher – always positive and enthusiastic. I feel exhilarated after my hour's lesson. At 42 I felt a bit of an idiot taking up the drums, with my 13 year old daughter – but it's been one of the best things I've ever done.
Mike is also really cool, with an infectious enthusiasm which keeps Lauren motivated. Thank you Musical Box.
Love the Rowleys x
"Drums are really cool,
I play them after school,
I love rocking out
To play, to scream and shout,
When I'm older I know
I'm gonna turn pro."
(anonymously written in our guest book)
Testimonials
Guitar, bass, drum, keys, vocal and uke lessons are fun at The Musical Box – but don't take our word for it… read below and click here to see some of the teachers and students videos in lessons!
T’s had a brilliant five years with Tim and has learned a huge amount. I’m hugely grateful not only for his kindness and support in what has been a tough few years for him, but also his mentorship.
I will not hesitate to recommend TMB!
EA 01/10/24
BM - 1/10/24
An amazing email today (which made my day!!) from the parent of one of our singing students about our teacher James. "We are absolutely thrilled with what {our daughter} has achieved and how much she enjoys her sessions. James is a very talented and approachable teacher who inspires his students."
JA - 06.05.22
Singing lessons at TMB - "I'd like to say, what a pleasure it's been to meet James and [my son] has really enjoyed his lessons with him. Thanks again to you all.
LH - 02.03.22
In response to our band days and composition days at TMB in half term - "Hi TMB, I just wanted to drop you a message to say how much my son enjoyed the band day today. He’s come home on cloud nine, so happy and excited. He says he can’t wait for the next one. Thank you so much for organising such a wonderful event."
EC - 04.06.21
"CSS wanted me to get in touch and ask if you could pass a message to Gareth, at the weekend she found out she got a distinction in her drum exam. She is super excited and said she was not expecting it. She has come so far in the time she’s been with you guys and is super proud of herself, as are we. Thank you all for all your hard work."
CS - 26.04.21
Even video lessons at TMB are second to none..... look at what one mum said after a video lesson last night -
"My son was visibly buzzing after his online lesson today. He was chuffed with his progress. Thank you so much!"
PS 18.02.21
"I just wanted to say thank you. We've been so impressed at the way you guys have dealt with the ups and downs of the past 10months. The support of Jack, Toby and Lottie has been exceptional. The switch to online lessons was so easy and provided the boys with much needed continuity. All three of my boys look forward to their lessons and are always smiling at the end of them. I couldn't ask for more.
Take care and stay safe"
KW. 09.02.21
"Hi Tim, Thanks for all your hard work in keeping lessons going. We really appreciate how difficult it is!"
MC 04.02.21
"Tim - Thank you for the video lesson and music sheets. We appreciate your time and effort put into each lesson. Our son is really enjoying it! Take care"
NL 03.02.21
"I want to tell you that after every lesson, my son always talks about how much he likes you. He says you're not just a great drum teacher, you are also super nice! Thanks for being someone he can look up to!"
MC 25.01.2021
"My son loves it! Thanks for being a great teacher and giving him such a cool environment to learn in. It's been a tough year and you and all at TMB have been ACE. Let's hope next year we can get back to normal"
LG 22.01.2021
"You guys have been fantastic over the time we have been with you. We are also very thank full for the video call lessons you have continued to provide throughout these strange times".
SG 20.07.2020
Having changed our policy in April reagrding cancellations and make-up lessons from allowing one re-arranged lesson per stuent per block to sending video lessons for every lesson missed, we have received several positive comments such as this response:
"Good to know about the video lesson for when they’re poorly or away - great solution".
JM 20.07.2020
TMB: "Our new policy means he will not miss the lessons though (yay!) as we will record a video for him to work through when he has finished partying!!"
VC: "Wow, that is brilliant – thank you very much!"
VC 17.07.2020
"I trust you are well. TR was so excited last night after her lesson bless her. I am just checking to see if there is a open slot for her next week; she doesn't want to wait another 2 weeks".
JR 09.07.2020
Thank you for your patience dealing with J and us. He displays as a confident out going child, but really he is a ball of anxiousness. The guitar wasn’t for him... but singing it would seem is his thing. Yesterday he left home for the lesson cross, anxious and returned singing! Thank you for all the dedication you show behind the bright lights and allowing these kids to find their happy place. I am very grateful.
AM 24.06.20
Thank you for your message. It makes us so happy xx
NL 4.05.20
"The Musical Box is an absolutely fantastic team of inspiring teachers. Students are engaged in lessons and can’t wait to attend each week. The opportunity to get involved in some of their own events such as Box Fest also encourages children to showcase and share their fantastic achievements! As a teacher who works very closely with The Musical Box, every member feels like part of my team and not simply teachers who visit weekly. All teachers are approachable and keep me regularly updated with the progress of the students. They adapt their teaching to suit all abilities from complete beginners starting out in year 7, to advance players completing their GCSEs at year 11. The office staff are also incredibly willing to ensure all our needs are accommodated and they will always work with me to provide the best possible opportunities for all of our students. Would absolutely highly recommend The Musical Box to any school!" - Stratford upon Avon School Music Dept.
Thanks so much Hannah. We love working with you guys and do feel like part of the team x
Lovely comment about our 'new' video lessons from a parent of a student - Thanks NS
"I was slightly apprehensive about F's lessons today but Lottie, as always, rocked it and him into action! Jaffa cake overload, but hey, who cares? Great job guys, and Lottie. See you next week.
NS 24.3.2020
'It's great to see the enthusiasm of the Musical Box band and our children thoroughly enjoyed the demo assembly today'
Jane Tailby- Headteacher Bridgetown School - 23.10.2020
Tim, Paula, Guy, James + everyone else there this evening. You guys are probably all still at it - as ever - unsung(sorry!) heros. I've got to say thanks for another great BoxFest - a thoroughly enjoyable event. It is great to see universal inclusion and the sheer quality of the talent (both students AND staff!) in one event. You are doing something special there. Well done. It's nearly time for your summer break. Enjoy it. We'll all be back next year. thanks Dan 22.07.2019
Dear Dan - This email means so much. It is hard work, a long day, but we love seeing everyone play and music brings all of us together.
Just so you know, I am really happy with Bethany and G has settled with her really well. I am also pleased that Beth is looking at exams and dates with her. Bethany really sees potential with G and is very encouraging. G really enjoys working with her.
Beth is a real credit to the Musical box.
N Patrick - 28.01.19
S Smith 18.12.18
Dear TMB, My son is playing bass for the first time in the school Christmas concert next week, and drum kit for Bletchingdon Silver Band training band in their concert - including Bon Jovi livin on a prayer. This is all thanks to you at the Musical Box for giving him the confidence to have a go.
RMCN 6.12.18
We attended the first TMB Masterclass last week and thought it was well organised with interesting & useful info about different genres. It was well adapted for beginners and the more experienced so everyone enjoyed it and gained something. I gained more knowledge about different musical styles & how to play them. There was a good balance of theory and practical.
Thanks TMB
Zach W - 26.1018
Hi TMB, I will be moving to Devon soon so need to stop lessons. Please thank Scott for his patience and for trying to help get my fingers moving in the right direction. I have made a great deal of progress in understanding and playing the electric guitar since starting regular lessons and I am very grateful to him for that.SP 16.10.18I am so pleased to hear that EB is making good progress. It is down to Gareth's super teaching and patience too!Have a lovely weekend.EB 12.10.18
My son enjoys his lessons and always comes out with a smile on his face! Many thanks to Gareth for making his drum lessons so enjoyable.
MS 12.10.18
TMB a great place to study and to grow your inner musician. Lovely teachers who really care about their students and just a well-run school! Thank you for all you do!
LK 17.9.18
A fantastic place to learn music. All smiles here!
JW 15.9.18
Thank heavens we found The Musical Box! What a brilliant, professional and caring company they are. Any difficulty, such as unable to make a lesson an alternative date can be quickly and easily agreed. Our son loves his singing lessons, they are what he most looks forward to in life. Since starting with TMB earlier this year he's a much happier boy with something to really look forward to each fortnight. His teacher is kind, supportive and good fun, our son is learning so much, values the guidance and is enjoying working hard to better himself. Given our son suffers with anxiety, going to TMB to sing has helped him so much. He can relax and be himself. A massive thank you to Brad and the TMB team for all that you do
RJ 15.9.18
Brilliant, friendly, and well run, The Musical Box welcomes all ages and standards. Tim, Paula and all their staff clearly have a passion for what they do. Having been inspired to 'have a go' when my children were having drum, guitar and keyboard lessons I am still there playing my guitar seven years later!
CS 14.9.18
Tim and his teachers are a talented bunch - very in tune with children and teenagers. They are fantastic at bringing out the best in them, and harnessing and nurturing their interest and enthusiasm. My daughter learnt drums, guitar and bass here for several years and she is now at BIMM in Manchester (Europe’largest music college) doing a music performance degree. She credits Tim and his teachers for their inspiration and encouragement.
5 stars! MGM 14.9.18
In tune with what music is today and a truly welcoming environment, this is the music school to choose. So helpful when we need to move a lesson to another time slot or to try different strategies for my son to learn based on his strengths. So happy I found you!!!!
GH 14.9.18
My son learnt drums at The Musical Box and really enjoyed his lessons and the performances. Whilst taking him to lessons my husband noticed there was a free slot and took up the Bass, latterly moving onto the Guitar, he really enjoys his weekly session with Guy at the Stratford studio
CS 14.9.18
I have just been chatting with my daughter who has singing lessons at the school and I was touched by what she said to me. She has struggled with her self confidence recently and with the support of Brad (her teacher) and the team was able to perform in public for the first time recently at the Boxfest concert. It has made a world of difference to how she feels in so much as she was able to stand up and perform in public and she could not be more grateful to Brad....he was amazing on the day of the performance and supported her all the way through. Tim and Paula we thankyou for creating such an amazing school and giving talented people the opportunity to shine!
JH 14.9.18
We love The Musical Box! We first went along simply because they had the nearest drumming teacher to us but, from the first moment we walked through the door, we realised that these weren't just your average music lessons. These were awesome music lessons! Now we have 2 guitarists and a drummer in the house, who all look forward to their lessons and take their practice seriously. It's great that the lessons run through the school holidays so there's real continuity. Plus, if we find we're busy and need to rearrange a lesson, Tim, Paula and the teachers always do their best to accommodate us provided we give them enough notice.
KB 14.9.18
Incredible music school!!! Highly recommend for all ages. Such a great place to learn!
JW 13.9.18
A lovely comment from a students mum about BoxFest 18- "What a super afternoon thank you so much. My daughter was so pleased with herself as it was a first for her and please pass on our thanks again to Brad who was so supportive. It is a joy to watch so many talented people enjoying themselves so much! " Awww Thanks. We loved watching everyone too. So proud of all of them!!
From a mum - I am so pleased with R*** - to let you know - since taking drum lessons with you he has gained enough confidence to re-join the village silver band (who originally taught him to read music and and to play the cornet, but he never played in the band due to nerves or dis-interest). He is now playing percussion for the training band and has played at one school fete so far. And yesterday he signed up for 2 after-school clubs - 'classic rock music' & 'playing in a band' - he has never wanted to do anything after school before. Oh, and I forgot that he also started bell-ringing for the church earlier this year and is now almost ready to ring with the main group following a few months of 1:1 training.Thank you TMB for inspiring R*** and giving him the confidence he needed.Looking forward to Boxfest.RM 21.06.2018
We spoke to a customer today who had just had an intro lesson at Stratford upon Avon studio who's comment on exiting the lesson was " Brilliant, Jack's the man for me!"
SH 7.11.2017
My son and husband have been having drum lessons for the last year. They have both made fantastic progress thanks to the superb teaching! It is also a cool place hang out. I love having the chance to make myself a cuppa and chill out using the free WiFi or reading a magazine whilst the boys have their lesson. I would definitely recommend The Musical Box ( in fact I already have!). Elspeth. 14.09.17
My daughter absolutely loved her singing and drum lessons at The Musical Box. The teachers are all amazing. We loved how supportive everyone was. Emma the vocal coach thoroughly supported Olivia through the audition process to Drama School with huge success. I cannot recommend The Musical Box enough.
Sam Barnett-Legh 13.9.17
I have been attending the Musical Box for drum and piano lessons. Very friendly place with excellent teachers, who make you most welcome and are extremely experienced with the instruments that they teach. If you have always wanted to take up a musical instrument, then this is the place for you!
Ed Pearce - 13.9.17
A welcoming and relaxed studio environment and most important, inspiring teachers with a flexible approach who really understand their students and want them to love their music-making.
Helen -8.9.17
They have the best teachers here for children as well as adults (it's never too late to learn), a great range of lessons and a great atmosphere - staff are always friendly and helpful.. which makes for learning fun. So pleased I discovered TMB - thank you!
DC- 8.09.17
Set in the beautiful countryside just outside of Stratford-upon-Avon, this music school offers fantastic tuition and brilliant facilities. Everybody is so welcoming and friendly. A great project to get involved in both as a student, wanting to learn an instrument or vocals, or as a tutor!
Brad - Singing teacher 12.09.17
Brilliant school with enthusiastic and talented musicians. Our son loves every lesson and comes out full of passion for the drums. Cannot recommend The Musical Box highly enough!
DP - 11.09.2017
Brilliant music school for all ages. My sons learnt guitar, keyboard and drums over several years and I was inspired to take up guitar myself ... the inspiring teachers have proved it's never too late to learn something new! Great set up and location with plenty of parking and even room for parents to wait for their children in comfort while making themselves a cup of tea or coffee!
CS - 4.09.17
Hi, My daughter said when we left on Monday that it was her best lesson so far. She really did come out with more confidence. See you next week xx
SJ - 18.05.17
At TMB we have been in the process of doing our annual teacher appraisals 2017. I have only analysed one teachers client reports so far and this is what clients have said - I am very proud of this...... this is what TMB is ALL about!!
- My child absolutely loves her teacher.
- Our TMB teacher always challenges my child
- The progress from when we started lessons to now; 2 years later, is massive!
- The office staff always try to help when I need to change.
- Easy to contact TMB by phone or email
- I am 100% happy with everything – NO NEED TO IMPROVE
- My child is always upbeat after lessons
- Since starting lessons 3 months ago, we can already see more confidence and hear a much better tone.
- Impressed with the facilities
- Tim is very approachable and friendly
- Paula is very efficient
- I have seen an improvement in the selection of biscuits since last year so I am very happy.
- My singing lessons are the highlight of my week!!
15.5.17
From a parent on the phone-
"Joey is just such as lovely person who is full of useful information that flows out of him at every lesson. He is so welcoming and my son just adores coming to the studio and spending an hour learning bass with Joey!"
HWB - 4/517
From one of the heads of music at a school we work in said this this week -
"The school secretary was very complimentary about The Musical Box, particularly Emma; the vocal teacher, who was described as very professional when working at the school. Emma also seems to know how the school runs so can find students and be in the right place at the right time. She is also always very pleasant." Aww..... thanks -
SB - Deddington School
7.3.17
From a students mum when they moved abroad - "My son enjoyed his lessons a lot. He would always shout ‘Yay!’ when he found out it was a Wednesday and I would say ‘Why are you so happy that it is Wednesday?’ and he would say, ‘Because on Wednesday I have a guitar lesson with Scott!’ Please pass on our thanks to Scott and we wish you all the best with the future of the Musical Box.
ES - 16.01.17
"Loving this place! At the age of 50 (!!) I decided to stop messing around with the guitar and take it seriously (mid-life crisis??? Whatever!!!) Anyway it's been great so far. Scott is a brilliant teacher. You can only get so far with YouTube, DVDs and books. You 100% need a 1 to1 teacher if you want to take it seriously. My fingers are sore from practising...but it's very rewarding."
Iain D - 19.7.16
This is from one of our teachers!
Paula, I wanted to let you know about an amazing lesson that happened at Stratford High school last week. I met with Oliver, and we had a great breakthrough. He matched pitch with the piano more than he ever has before, managed to get through all of the warm ups I threw his way, AND he prepared a new piece that was sung SO well. Oliver left absolutely elated by the success he felt during this lesson.
I am still elated myself, from everything!
Emma x 09.05.16
Awwwwwww. Emma - you are amazing and so is OLIVER - Massive congrats Oliver. You should feel so proud of yourself..... singing isn't easy, no musical instrument is.... it takes hard work and perseverance.... and you did both! Well Done from TMB xxxx
He is studying music GCSE so is keen to develop his music skills. So we would like to forward his school details to you in the hope that Cherwell school will consider having you over. We look forward with interest and hope.
You really are so much more than a music lesson and offer the creativity, dynamic and fun that is absent from his school lessons.
Thank you very much
ST- 27.4.16
Matt, I would like to thank you for all your hard work and patience with me over the last few months. I am so grateful for all the tutoring I have had with TMB staff and want you to know that I will continue tinkling away at home with the knowledge that I have gained from you. Many many thanks for enabling me to at least be able to play something recognisable, which I never thought would happen. With very best wishes to you for continued success." J x 16.03.16
Great fun. Thanks...
I just wanted to let you know that Olivia really loved her lesson tonight with the new singing teacher Emma, she came home so excited she hasn't stopped singing all night !!!!
Sam - 08.12.15
Singing teacher Holly was a real hit with her pupils this week, thank you TMB. Students went home 'BUZZING' ".
Thanks Dormer House School - 18.9.15
Just wanted to say thanks so much for the consistancy you have provided our pupils over the last acedemic year. This is something we have struggled with in the past when using other music providers so it has been great for our students to receive the consistancy you have provided. Thanks TMB
Henley School 10.9.15
Hi there, just wanted to say thanks for sorting out the band on Saturday. I think they really enjoyed it and the guests were well impressed!
Maybe now they've have had the taste of it they will want to do it again some time? We can have them headlining at "Dornstock" before too long!!
Sarah 18/5/15
Dear Tim, Paula & Guy,
Just wanted to say that the band were great and we were so impressed with them all. Cant wait for the next gig!
Lisa & Nick x 19/5/15
C Peake - 9.04.15
Tim, It was great to meet you and Henry yesterday - and my daughter really enjoyed her lesson. She talked all the way home about treble clefs and bass clefs and how she had learned 3 notes, then practised as soon as she got back home, so if enthusiasm is anything to go by we might have a promising future with the piano.
S Hodgson 29.04.15
So, needless to say, we would like to continue for the whole 8 week blockMy son is loving the lessons from you guys and wants to become a singer/songwriter!
A Lucero - 13.04.15
Sofia is growing in confidence every lesson and Bryony is carefully choosing songs that will challenge her in the right ways. Bryony is friendly, gives good feedback and is obviously tuned in to Sofia's particular strengths and weaknesses. Thanks TMB.
Julie 14.3.2015
Once again I'll say how amazing the whole experience at TMB has been - The facilities are top notch and Mark is absolutely awesome. Very patient (he has to be with me!), motivational and its always fun. In particular, when I unexpectedly had to start my new course he went above and beyond to be accommodating. I'm already learning some songs for the summer party! Bring on the sun.
Ollie B - 1.3.15
The Musical Box have been providing tuition in guitar, bass, drums, piano/keys and (most recently) singing at Stratford-upon-Avon School since 2011, with some group workshops supplied as required. We have at least one of their experienced and hugely enthusiastic teachers in nearly every day of the school week, all of who have gained superb results from our students, both in terms of grades achieved and engagement with instrument lessons. The service and communication from their administrative team has been similarly impressive, working with our staff members to ensure seamless tuition from week-to-week, term-to-term and year-to-year – not an easy task in a school of this size.
Regarding quality provision of musical instrument and vocal tuition in a school environment, I cannot recommend The Musical Box highly enough.
My son really likes drumming and so we will have to rethink about cricket (which he also likes)...We think Alex is a really good teacher and both my boys really enjoy his lessons.
Bridgetown Parent - 08/01/2015
Dear All, My son's been really into the keyboard over the holidays. I'd like to say he's practiced diligently (!) but he's certainly been playing the carol service piece and other party pieces with increased enthusiasm. Thanks
Bridgetown Parent - 07/01/2015
Paula, Thanks for the Christmas Party yesterday, we had a lot of fun Looking forward to the next set of lessons with Mark! Really enjoying it!
Ollie - Fritwell - 15.12.2014
Our singing teacher is Bryony from The Musical Box LTD - you should contact Paula asap as I know they're getting booked up already. I cannot recommend their teachers highly enough as they've been getting superb results from our students.
Mr D - Stratford-Upon-Avon School - 5/12/14
Both Siena and Adam had a very enthusiastic and great response to your rock session at Bicester Studio today – thanks!
SE - 31.10.2014
The teaching I have received from Adam has been exceptionally super. He is very patient with me and he is excellent at building up my confidence in piano playing.
Vickie Loh - 28/10/14
My daughter really enjoyed her piano lesson this week and I thought Henry was brilliant. Long gone are the days of boring music lessons with an ancient teacher - I remember my own school experiences! Thanks Musical Box
Mrs Smith - 13/10/14
We really enjoyed the Summer party and student performances yesterday and were most impressed not only by the school and facilities but even more so by the manner and calibre of the teachers. It was evident in the relaxed performances by the students. You could just see they were having a ball! Thanks for the invitation Love to you all
Ivor and Julie - 11/08/2014
Just finished my second course of drum lessons and wanted to say a big thank you to Tim for all the encouragement and tuition, as well as the laughs! If you're thinking of having a go at learning to play an instrument, then I would highly recommend The Musical Box. I've always wanted to try it but never had the courage - thank you for helping me to try something new that has given me a sense of achievement and much enjoyment. Just need to keep practising!
Jayne Mottram - Aug 14
TMB is an awesome place to have music lessons!! I've been having drum lessons for the past few months and I'm really glad that I found TMB online. Not only does each lesson really help to improve my technique and my ability, they are also really good fun! I've been learning different skills and techniques at the same time as learning songs; this is an exciting way to learn as I can play along to some of my favorite songs! I now actually look forward to Mondays because of my drum lessons!
Hannah - May 14
Our son George has been learning electric guitar with Guy since the New Year and boy is he doing well!! Guy has him practising his chords and grade pieces, but also doing really cool things like F1 theme tune, James Bond, James Blunt, Smoke on the Water.....the list goes on. We are both really jealous that our 10 year old is officially cooler than we are......he loves practising, he finds it really fun and can't wait for each weeks lesson. What ever you are doing it works!! Thank you.
Wendy - May 14
TMB has been keeping a passion for music alive in our house for over 5 years. Anyone who can get a pair of horizontal teenage boys to practise without nagging deserves rich praise - a true testament to Henry and his incredible enthusiasm and talent. Can't thank you enough.
J. May 06/05/14
My daughter has been having lessons at The Musical Box for a couple of years now. She started off learning electric guitar, but has enjoyed them so much, she's now learning drums and keyboards too. She gets so much out of her music lessons - they help her to de stress and unwind after school, and the teachers at TMB make the lessons enjoyable and fun. She practices all her instruments because she is inspired by the music choices the teachers make for her. Thank you Musical Box - 5 big stars to all.
Mrs M Graham-Martin - May 2014
Our 10 year old has been having piano lessons with Henry for three years and loves it. He gets to play a beautiful baby grand every week and, alongside working through the grades, he always has a pop song on the go (so far he has learned ‘feelin’ good’, ‘Rolling in the Deep’, Sweet Child of Mine’, ‘Grenade’ and ‘Set Fire to the Rain’ and is about to tackle ‘Honky Tonk Woman’). Sometimes they both let rip as a duet with Henry providing extra twiddles on the keyboard and singing. This is Henry’s magical ingredient: it’s not all hard slog with just grades as distant rewards; Henry’s cool, they have a wail of a time and my son has some ‘show-off’ pieces to impress whoever comes to the house.
Chrissy Wainwright - May 2014
Hi Paula,
Thank you for yesterday at your Bicester studios. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The atmosphere was just perfect and standard of music superb as always. All the teachers are a great bunch of characters. Your sons are scrumptious as well. So much fun!
Tracey Wild - 16/12/2013
You were utterly BRILLIANT last Thursday - thank you so much for making the evening so great - without you all it wouldn't have been half as much fun. Great music; utterly toe tapping (and fun to see Max too)
Best thanks to you all,
Juliet x
Juliet Carron - Kitebrook House - Halloween Hog Roast organiser - Oct 31st 2013
'After your lesson my sister Becky could not stop tapping on things. Soooooo annoying… thanks Tim'
We love our music lessons here. Tim is a great teacher – always positive and enthusiastic. I feel exhilarated after my hour's lesson. At 42 I felt a bit of an idiot taking up the drums, with my 13 year old daughter – but it's been one of the best things I've ever done.
Mike is also really cool, with an infectious enthusiasm which keeps Lauren motivated. Thank you Musical Box.
Love the Rowleys x
"Drums are really cool,
I play them after school,
I love rocking out
To play, to scream and shout,
When I'm older I know
I'm gonna turn pro."
(anonymously written in our guest book)
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