First, group classes give children a musical peer group with whom they can identify. Group playing is often slightly below the lesson material level. This gives the students the opportunity to play with each other in a non-threatening environment, develop self-confidence and poise in a group, and obtain motivation and social enjoyment from their peers and friends.
Second, classes are preparation for ensemble work. Playing in a group class involves an entirely different set of skills than playing alone. Group activities are used to develop a sense of ensemble while reviewing and polishing various technical and musical points in an enjoyable and stimulating environment.