Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Advanced Music Tuition for All Ages in Aberdeen
Nesms (NESMS) has been dedicated to nurturing musical talent since its founding in 1975. We provide advanced-level tuition for students of all ages, bringing internationally renowned tutors to our Aberdeen centre for regular one-to-one coaching and masterclasses. Our purpose-built facility features four fully equipped studios with Steinway pianos, an extensive library of musical resources, and accessible spaces for performances. As a registered charity, we prioritise affordability through subsidised fees, competitive scholarships, and hardship funding, ensuring talented individuals can access world-class instruction regardless of financial circumstances.Our small, welcoming environment fosters a family atmosphere while maintaining professional standards, supported by a team of experienced educators and administrators. NESMS actively contributes to the North East community through public concerts, collaborative projects, and partnerships with local music organisations, cementing our role as a vital cultural institution in Scotland's musical landscape.
Services
Music Tuition
Piano Lessons
Strings Coaching
Brass Instruction
Woodwind Masterclasses
Vocal Training
Scholarship Programmes
Music Library Access
Performance Workshops
Community Concerts
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- We offer regular masterclasses with internationally renowned musicians
- Our charity status enables subsidised fees and competitive scholarship programmes
- Four fully equipped studios feature Steinway pianos and modern teaching facilities
- We maintain a supportive, family-oriented learning environment with small class sizes
- Our tutors include specialists from across the British Isles with decades of experience
Services
Music Tuition
We provide advanced one-to-one music tuition across six categories: keyboard, strings, brass, woodwind, voice, and beginner programmes. Our experienced tutors deliver bespoke instruction tailored to individual learning needs. Lessons occur monthly with visiting specialists, complemented by occasional workshops and masterclasses throughout the academic year.
Scholarship Programmes
Our charity status enables competitive scholarships and hardship funding for talented musicians facing financial barriers. We award free tuition based on merit and need, ensuring accessibility to high-quality music education. These programmes are sustained through fundraising and donor contributions.
Music Library
Our extensive library houses nearly 8,000 printed music items, 500 music theory books, and over 1,400 vinyl recordings. Available for consultation or loan to students and tutors, it includes special collections like the RH Allen instrumental scores and Soviet-era recordings. The facility supports both academic study and performance preparation.
Studio Hire
Four fully equipped studios featuring Steinway pianos are available for hire. Each space includes professional amenities like music stands, seating, and recording equipment. Studios accommodate practice sessions, exams, and small performances at affordable rates for both regular users and visiting musicians.
Community Events
We host regular concerts, recitals, and fundraising events showcasing student achievements and guest artist performances. These events foster community engagement while providing performance opportunities for learners. Proceeds support our educational programmes and facility maintenance.
People
Colin Brockie
Manager
Originally from Ellon, Colin holds a Masters in Solo Performance from RNCM. He has performed with major opera festivals and remains a regular soloist. Combines management with private singing tuition and local community engagement.
Reg Pringle
Librarian
Former University Librarian at Aberdeen with academic background in Hispanic languages. Served as Project Director of Grampian Information and held leadership roles in library councils. Joined NESMS in 2004 after academic career.
Ailsa Smith
Assistant Manager
Graduated in Acoustics and Music Technology from Edinburgh University. Played with Edinburgh University Wind Band and Footlights. Previously worked at Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and volunteered with youth music programmes.
Questions
What music tuition options are available?
We offer advanced lessons in piano, strings, brass, woodwind, and voice with visiting specialists. Tuition includes monthly lessons, occasional workshops, and masterclasses from internationally renowned musicians.
Do you provide financial assistance for students?
Yes, as a charity we offer competitive scholarships and hardship funding. These programmes provide free tuition for talented musicians who cannot afford standard fees.
Can I access the music library without being a student?
The library is freely available to tutors, students, and Friends of NESMS. Non-members may access resources for a small fee. Special collections require prior arrangement with library staff.
Are practice facilities available for hire?
Our four fully equipped studios with Steinway pianos are available for hire at £8.50-£12.00 per hour. Facilities include recording equipment and performance spaces suitable for exams and recitals.
How does the scholarship application process work?
Applications are reviewed by our funding committee. Criteria include musical merit, financial need, and potential for development. Successful applicants receive free tuition for specified periods based on available resources.
Videos
Reviews (1)
Emily T.
May 27, 2010
Report
I had heard about this place as I was beginning to out-grow my violin teacher around grade 7 and decided to go along. I was a bit scared, because I'm not exactly a musical maestro and I knew I wouldn't be up to a decent standard. But the staff were absolutely lovely and very welcoming, and the violin teacher - Gillian Findlay - was amazing! She could see I was nervous and put me right at ease. Everything she told me was extremely beneficial and she took me through my final two grades. The North East Music School is practically an institution. It has a regular newsletter that I get every
