A Gym for the Musically Inclined Arrives in the CBD

Ever wanted to learn a musical instrument, but couldn’t find the time?

Catherine Prifti is here to make that easier. Her project, The Music Gym, is just like a regular gym – but with pianos and guitars instead of treadmills.

The last time many of us tested our musical prowess was in high school. As adults, learning an instrument can be tough; instruments are expensive and finding time for regular classes with a busy work-life schedule can prove difficult.

“[Private lessons] are not flexible for adults with jobs, and many young adults live in share houses. You can’t practise anytime you want,” says Prifti.

The Music Gym is focused on flexibility, with small group classes running hourly and the option of beginner, intermediate or advanced classes in piano, voice or guitar. Students can attend casually, or sign up for a three-, six- or 12-month membership that allows them to rehearse at the Bourke Street location between lessons.

“You can use our instruments too,” Prifti says. “All the instruments are here, people just need to turn up.”

Classes start with a warm up followed by a workout. “Then we jam out,” says Prifti.

She hopes that the gym will give people the chance to socialise and meet new people, too.

“[Music] is one of those activities that brings people together,” she says. “No matter which country you are from, music [speaks] the same language.”

A music teacher for more than 21 years, Prifti also believes learning how to play an instrument offers a welcome break from people’s often-frenetic workdays. Studies show learning an instrument has many benefits, from boosting memory and mental to alertness, to increasing creativity and relieving stress – making classes an ideal knock-off or lunchtime activity for workers.

“We’re living in the 21st century, everything is so modernised,” she says. “But music is still taught in a very old-fashioned way.”

Find more information on The Music Gym, and sign up here.