The Royal College of Music hadn't been top of my list as a provider of music education for any but the most gifted. I had no idea before today of the scope of their programming. This week they have offered workshops for children from 6 – 15 and although some have been structured for particular levels of instrumental ability, many have been open to everyone. I also expected that they would have been interested only in fostering an interest in classical music, but I was wrong about this too.

The Suzuki Method is based on the principle that all children learn to speak their own language and that other skills can be taught to them in the same natural way. It is also known as the ‘mother tongue method’.

The enormous benefits of a good music education are well-recognised, but very few music groups truly develop the key musical skills of a child to a high level while still maintaining enjoyment. But it can be done. The Szilvay Foundation, a charity founded by Dr Géza Szilvay 35 years ago, has been teaching young children using the Colourstrings approach, based on educational principles laid down by the Hungarian composer and educator Zoltán Kodály. The approach has been widely praised by music professionals around the world.