Running a Group Class Taster for the Holidays

The holiday season is the perfect time to introduce your 1-1 piano students to the magic of group classes. Group lessons offer unique benefits like learning through play, games, singing, movement, and improvisation—making music and learning together.

Many KeyNotes studios have found success by running holiday-themed group tasters, some even using delightful mini workbooks like The Nutcracker or The Night Before Christmas to spark interest and excitement. 

Why Group Classes? The Benefits for Students

Group piano classes offer a dynamic environment where students can:

• Learn together: Discover musical concepts collaboratively, gaining confidence by playing in a supportive setting.
• Play in ensembles: Experience the joy of creating music with others, even if it’s as simple as a duet or layered rhythm activity.
• Engage in off-bench activities: Enjoy movement games, rhythm challenges, and musical storytelling to develop deeper musical understanding.
• Get creative: Explore improvisation in a group setting, where shared ideas can spark new inspiration.
• Stay motivated: The energy of learning alongside peers often translates to a boost in enthusiasm and practice habits.

Holiday Group Taster Ideas

Here are some festive activities that could feature in your group taster:

• Themed games: Try “Musical Christmas Trees” (like musical statues but students have to freeze as a Christmas tree) or a rhythm relay with jingle bells.
• Improvisation activities: Create a snowy soundscape using the piano and other simple instruments. Encourage students to experiment with dynamics, pitch, and rhythm.
• Singing and movement: Incorporate holiday songs with actions, such as “Jingle Bells,” where students explore dynamics or tempo changes.
• Ensemble playing: Have students play together at one piano, with some on melody and others on simple rhythm or harmony parts. If space allows, add small percussion instruments to include everyone.

Planning Your Group Class Taster

Here are three flexible ways to organize your taster session:

1. Replace 1-1 Lessons for a Week

   • Offer several group time slots instead of your usual one-to-one lessons.
   • Group students by similar age or skill level.
   • Keep the sessions short and focused (e.g., 60–90 minutes).

2. Add an Extra Workshop

   • Host the taster as a standalone event, perhaps on a weekend or during a holiday break.
   • Include snacks or a small holiday gift for an extra festive touch.

3. Run a Holiday Camp

   • Offer a longer session (e.g., 2–3 hours) to dive deeper into activities like improvisation, games, and ensemble work.
   • Use themed workbooks or other materials to guide the day.

Group Size and Setup

• Group size: Aim for 4–8 students, depending on your space and instruments available.
• One piano? No problem! Focus on off-bench activities like rhythm games, singing, and movement. Incorporate ensemble playing at the end, where students can rotate on the piano or play percussion.
• Materials: Use simple props like scarves for movement, tambourines or bells for rhythm games, and printed handouts for ensemble pieces or activities.

Getting Families On Board

• Explain the benefits: Share with parents how group learning complements 1-1 lessons, boosting creativity, confidence, and teamwork skills.
• Keep it fun: Emphasize the festive and interactive nature of the taster.
• Encourage ongoing interest: Offer a special promotion for students who sign up for group classes in the new year.

Hosting a holiday group class taster isn’t just about sharing the joy of music—it’s also a fantastic way to show students and families how enriching group lessons can be. Many KeyNotes studios have even launched their group programs in this way, proving that a festive taster can lead to long-term success. Whether you’re introducing students to ensemble playing or letting them explore holiday-themed activities, you’re helping them see piano lessons in a whole new light.

So, why not give it a try this holiday season? Your students might just discover a love for group learning that lasts all year round!