A first-lesson conversation card set for interests, experience and goals

Use these six conversation cards before choosing a first piece. Allow the learner to pass on a question. No musical vocabulary is required.

Card 1 — A sound you like

“Tell me about a song, soundtrack or sound you enjoy. What catches your attention?”
Follow-up: Let them describe a mood, rhythm or instrument rather than requiring a title.

Card 2 — Something you already do

“Do you sing along, tap rhythms, play by ear or read any music?”
Teacher note: Treat informal musical experience as useful starting information.

Card 3 — Try an echo

Tap four steady beats, then two short sounds and one longer sound. Ask the learner to echo either pattern.
Notice: Can they sustain the pulse or remember the shape? This is a conversation, not an entrance test.

Card 4 — Choose a change

Play C–D–E–D as four equal notes. Repeat more softly. “Which version would suit the start of a quiet story?”
Extension: Let the learner choose another contrast.

Card 5 — Imagine a small success

“What would you enjoy being able to play in a few lessons?”
Follow-up: Turn a large ambition into one recognisable step, such as finding the opening melody.

Card 6 — Fit learning into life

“When might you have a few quiet minutes to try something between lessons?”
Teacher note: Agree a realistic first action, not a promise of daily perfection.

Finish by telling the learner one thing you noticed and one musical idea you will explore together.