Downloads

1. I can't get the video download to play
2. How do I download the online video lessons I have bought?
3. How do I access the download I have just purchased?
4. I've tried to download the file but I've run out of attempts.

General

1. Will the DVDs play in every DVD player?
2. What if I'm not satisfied with my purchase?
3. How quickly will you ship my order?
4. Who do you ship with?
5. I received a faulty DVD - what next?
6. Can I use the DVDs for group teaching or share them around?

Guitar/Bass

1. Which level is right for me - should I get the Beginners, Song Learner or the Intermediate DVDs?

Keyboards

1. Which level is right for me - should I get the Beginners or the Intermediate DVDs?
2. I only have a piano. Is that OK?
3. Do I need to learn to read music?
4. Are the Intermediate DVDs available as separate volumes?
5. Why are the Beginners DVDs more expensive?
6. Are the Song Learners available on DVD?

Drums

1. Which level is right for me - should I get the Beginners or the Intermediate DVDs?
2. Are the exercises from the work-out CD available on the DVDs?
3. Are the Intermediate DVDs available as separate volumes?

Singing

1. Which level is right for me?
2. I’m confused about the warm up CDs. Can you give me some more information?

Worship Backing Band

1. Can I take more than one instrument out of the mix on the Worship Backing Band DVDs?
2. Is there an option to have moving images in the background of the Worship Backing Band songs?
3. Can a worship band use the Backing Band DVD in a live setting?
4. I'm not sure whether we need the church or musicians version.
5. My DVD player seems to automatically adjust the volume down when it reaches a loud part of a song.
6. Do I need a license to use this DVD in church?
7. Can I create my own play lists?
8. Can we use the Worship Backing Band DVD with software like MediaShout or EasyWorship?

Downloads

1. I can't get the video download to play

   99% of these problems are solved when you uninstall and reinstall your player. Our downloads work in Windows Media Player, Quicktime, Real Player and lots of others but you do need the very latest codec so even if you have a new computer we would recommend that you reinstall if you are having difficulties.

2. How do I download the online video lessons I have bought?

   First login to your account in our store.

   Click on “Download” to download your file.
   There are limited attempts to download and the link normally expires after a couple of days - we have to set it up like this to avoid fraud.

   It may take a few minutes as some of the files are quite large! Do not cancel or interrupt as you will lose one of your attempts. You really need broadband rather than dial up.

   Very occasionally some of the files seem to stop downloading during the process. If this happens use the safe "Download Accelerator" program at CNET, a virus-free/trusted source: http://download.cnet.com/Download-Accelerator-Plus/3000-2071_4-10037157.html If you download this program it will double or triple the speed at which you download items from Musicademy and other websites. We have also found it to be an excellent workaround if you are getting any error messages with our standard download process. Just pause and replay during the download if it appears to stall.

   Once your lesson is stored on your computer you will need to "unzip" it. Winzip is software that compresses the file size. You can get a free trial of Winzip from download.com. Once its unzipped you then should be able to open the file with Quicktime, Windows Media Player or Real Player. Sometimes you need to right click on the filename and select “Open With” to tell your computer which program to use.

3. How do I access the download I have just purchased?

   After the checkout screen you will be returned to a page where you should be able to find a "download" button. Click on that to download your lesson. Its best to download using Mozilla Firefox rather than Internet Explorer as sometimes IE throws up problems. Occasionally you will get an error message about it not being a valid archive but you can normally click through and ignore this.
   You do need to download the file within a couple of days because they will expire after this point. Obviously once they are on your computer they won't expire!

4. I've tried to download the file but I've run out of attempts.

   There are a limited number of download attempts permitted. If you've run out of attempts and still not managed to download please contact us and we'll send you a coupon code to repurchase at no cost. Its always best to follow the instructions here when downloading.

   We would also recommend that you use Download Accelerator available from CNET, a virus-free/trusted source. If you download this program it will double or triple the speed at which you download items from Musicademy and other websites. We have also found it to be an excellent workaround if you are getting any error messages with our standard download process.

General

1. Will the DVDs play in every DVD player?

   Yes. They are coded Region 0 which means that they will play all over the world.

2. What if I'm not satisfied with my purchase?

   With the Musicademy branded CDs and DVDs we offer a money back guarantee if the product has failed to be the best guitar/vocals/keyboard/bass/drums worship teaching DVD you have ever used. To qualify for this you will need to return the item in pristine condition within two weeks (three weeks for international orders) of your initial order together with an explanation of why you are returning it.

   Please note that we are able to tell if DVDs have been copied. In this instance your guarantee will be invalid.

   Returns should be made to the Musciademy head office. Please email us before returning items.

3. How quickly will you ship my order?

   We aim to process and despatch your order immediately. Orders are normally shipped within 24 hours of receipt. If your order is delayed because items are temporarily out of stock, we will e-mail you to let you know. If you have pre-ordered an item, it will be sent to you on the release date. Please bear this in mind if you are ordering other items at the same time, as we do not ship part orders. If you wish to receive the in-stock items straight away, please put them on a separate order.

4. Who do you ship with?

   In the US and Canada your order will be sent via USPS or Fedex Ground from our warehouse in Texas. In the UK it will sent via Royal Mail. We ship to other countries using UK Royal Mail.

   Whilst Musicademy Records Ltd has no legal responsibility for items lost or damaged in the post in the rare cases this has ocurred to date, we have always replaced the item without question.

   If you have any queries then please do not hesitate to contact us
   (T: +44 (0) 1923 282878 info@musicademy.com)

5. I received a faulty DVD - what next?

   Items must be returned to the Musicademy head office within 7 days of receiving the initial delivery. Return the item in its original packaging together with your name and address details and we will replace it by return.

6. Can I use the DVDs for group teaching or share them around?

   The Musicademy DVDs are sold for individual use only. It is illegal to copy them, loan them out (even in a non commercial setting) or to use them in a group teaching situation. As a small company we are keen to continue to invest in creating new products – we can only do that if we maintain a steady income stream from sales. Therefore if you would like to use the DVDs for anything other than your own individual learning, please apply for a low cost license from Musicademy.

Guitar/Bass

1. Which level is right for me - should I get the Beginners, Song Learner or the Intermediate DVDs?

   Beginners – this series is suitable for complete beginners and will take you to a stage where you can play confidently in a house group or small church setting. For existing players, volumes 2 and 3 are great for those who know a few basic chords and some strumming patterns but don’t yet play “power” chords, slash chords or chords further up the neck. Volume 3 also includes a complete guide to effective finger picking.

   The Song Learner Series is designed for players who are working their way through the Beginners DVDs or who want to learn chords, strumming patterns and finger picking for a wider range of worship songs. They are a great way of expanding your repertoire and getting you a bit more experienced as a player before you move onto the Intermediate DVDs.

   Intermediate - for existing acoustic or electric players who are comfortable with basic chords, bar chords and able to play along in time with most worship songs. You do not need to know how to read music or have any prior knowledge of music theory or electric guitar techniques to access this series. This is all covered in an easily accessible style in all three volumes. This DVD will help those who have reached a threshold in their playing and what to develop new techniques as well as learning to play by ear.

   If you are unsure of whether you are at intermediate level yet, we would suggest you start with Beginners volume 2 or 3. We’ll also be happy to swap your DVDs after purchase if you feel that you have selected the wrong level.

Keyboards

1. Which level is right for me - should I get the Beginners or the Intermediate DVDs?

   Intermediate - for existing piano or keyboard players either classically trained and wanting to move to more contemporary styles or already confident with worship playing but keen to extend their technique.

   If you are unsure of whether you are at intermediate level yet, we would suggest you start with Beginners volume 2 or 3. We’ll also be happy to swap your DVDs after purchase if you feel that you have selected the wrong level.

   People who already play a bit of piano but aren’t really that confident (maybe a rusty grade 5 player but thinking they would like intermediate) may be best to start off with the first Intermediate lesson where chords based playing is explained in detail. This is available either on the Intermediate DVD box set or as online downloads. Then go back to Beginners vols 3 and 4 DVDs before progressing to the rest of the Intermediate course.

2. I only have a piano. Is that OK?

   Yes, its fine to use these DVDs with a piano. Although a DVD player and a TV might help too : )

3. Do I need to learn to read music?

   No, our approach is chords-based which means that all you need to read is a simple “guitar” chord chart. And you can download these free of charge in our members section.

4. Are the Intermediate DVDs available as separate volumes?

   No. We have very little demand for them as individual volumes at intermediate level so have only made them available as a bundled box set.

5. Why are the Beginners DVDs more expensive?

   There are four DVDs in the Beginners set but only three in the Intermediate.

6. Are the Song Learners available on DVD?

   The Keyboard Song Learners are currently only available as online downloads.

Drums

1. Which level is right for me - should I get the Beginners or the Intermediate DVDs?

   The Beginner Drum DVDs are for total beginners, however people who want to go through the basics of good technique would do well to start here. You can jump in at Beginner 2 or 3, or if you already play fairly confidently go straight for the intermediate course.

2. Are the exercises from the work-out CD available on the DVDs?

   One of the exercise sets is contained on the intermediate DVDs but not the others. Remember as well that the CD is an audio product. If you want to see video versions of the work-outs you can download them from our store.

3. Are the Intermediate DVDs available as separate volumes?

   No. We have very little demand for them as individual volumes at intermediate level so have only made them available as a bundled box set.

Singing

1. Which level is right for me?

   Even if you have previously had singing lessons we would recommend that you start with level 1. Different teachers use varying techniques and you will find plenty of learning even at the more basic level.

   More experienced singers will go through the DVDs more quickly but there is plenty of challenging material on the later volumes to give you plenty to work on.

   We would always recommend that people new to singing lessons first purchase The Essential Musicademy Vocals Warm-Up CD which is a set of relatively gentle exercises to warm up your voice, develop your ear, pitch, tuning, power and range.

   For more experienced singers we would recommend the Vocals Workout CD. Here your range will be more significantly stretched. Inexperienced singers do sometimes struggle with the complexity of exercises on this CD.

   Sing Happy is perfect for people looking for a more classical approach and it is very “musical theatre” in style. Its also led and sung by a man so men often like to try this CD. The other CDs are fine for men’s ranges but are led and sung by women.

2. I’m confused about the warm up CDs. Can you give me some more information?

   The Essential Musicademy Vocals Warm-Up CD and downloads contains many of the same exercises that are on the worship DVDs. Many people like to have the exercises available on CD so that they can play in a CD player, in the car or at church before a worship rehearsal. You can also rip the DVD to MP3 to put onto your MP3 player.

   You will find plenty of warm up exercises on the DVDs but they are in several locations – with the CD you have a full track listing at your fingertips and can even select a custom made warm up.

Downloads

1. I can't get the video download to play

   99% of these problems are solved when you uninstall and reinstall your player. Our downloads work in Windows Media Player, Quicktime, Real Player and lots of others but you do need the very latest codec so even if you have a new computer we would recommend that you reinstall if you are having difficulties.

2. How do I download the online video lessons I have bought?

   First login to your account in our store.

   Click on “Download” to download your file.
   There are limited attempts to download and the link normally expires after a couple of days - we have to set it up like this to avoid fraud.

   It may take a few minutes as some of the files are quite large! Do not cancel or interrupt as you will lose one of your attempts. You really need broadband rather than dial up.

   Very occasionally some of the files seem to stop downloading during the process. If this happens use the safe "Download Accelerator" program at CNET, a virus-free/trusted source: http://download.cnet.com/Download-Accelerator-Plus/3000-2071_4-10037157.html If you download this program it will double or triple the speed at which you download items from Musicademy and other websites. We have also found it to be an excellent workaround if you are getting any error messages with our standard download process. Just pause and replay during the download if it appears to stall.

   Once your lesson is stored on your computer you will need to "unzip" it. Winzip is software that compresses the file size. You can get a free trial of Winzip from download.com. Once its unzipped you then should be able to open the file with Quicktime, Windows Media Player or Real Player. Sometimes you need to right click on the filename and select “Open With” to tell your computer which program to use.

3. How do I access the download I have just purchased?

   After the checkout screen you will be returned to a page where you should be able to find a "download" button. Click on that to download your lesson. Its best to download using Mozilla Firefox rather than Internet Explorer as sometimes IE throws up problems. Occasionally you will get an error message about it not being a valid archive but you can normally click through and ignore this.
   You do need to download the file within a couple of days because they will expire after this point. Obviously once they are on your computer they won't expire!

4. I've tried to download the file but I've run out of attempts.

   There are a limited number of download attempts permitted. If you've run out of attempts and still not managed to download please contact us and we'll send you a coupon code to repurchase at no cost. Its always best to follow the instructions here when downloading.

   We would also recommend that you use Download Accelerator available from CNET, a virus-free/trusted source. If you download this program it will double or triple the speed at which you download items from Musicademy and other websites. We have also found it to be an excellent workaround if you are getting any error messages with our standard download process.

Worship Backing Band

1. Rating: +0

   

   Can I take more than one instrument out of the mix on the Worship Backing Band DVDs?

   You can only take one instrument out at a time. The reason for this is simply one of space on the DVD. Each option (i.e. each new combination of instruments) requires an additional 54 tracks on the DVD because their are 54 songs all requiring the new combination. To have enabled more options would have meant dramatically reducing the number of songs on the DVD overall. Remember too that this is a DVD with a simple to use menu screen. Had we created a more complex software product we could have incorporated more functionality however it would have been a lot more expensive and far more difficult for people to use. This would not have been ideal given that many people simply want to use it in a housegroup or small church setting on a DVD player rather than on a computer.

2. Rating: +0

   

   Is there an option to have moving images in the background of the Worship Backing Band songs?

   We did quite a lot of research on this and found that moving images were surprisingly controversial. A lot of people find them quite distracting and can detract from focusing on the words. We also felt that they could easily date and would have added a lot of cost to the product. So we decided to keep it nice and clean and simple with a black background.

3. Rating: +0

   

   Can a worship band use the Backing Band DVD in a live setting?

   Yes. We're finding that a lot of teams, especially those that are perhaps young or inexperienced are finding it helpful to play the DVD in the background (perhaps just taking out the vocals or guitars) and play their instruments over the top. It helps them to keep in time and provides good cover if they go wrong.

4. Rating: +1

   

   I'm not sure whether we need the church or musicians version.

   The key differences are as follows:
   - The church version does not have on screen chords, instead it just has on screen words so if you are a musician needing the chords make sure you get the musicians version
   - The church version has 50 pre programmed set lists. These are perfect for creating a seamless flow to your worship as you don't need to go back to the menu each time
   - You can only select to take vocals out of the mix on the church one

5. Rating: +0

   

   My DVD player seems to automatically adjust the volume down when it reaches a loud part of a song.

   There is a setting on some players (sometimes called "at home" or similar) which automatically adjusts loud noises to a lower volume. You can adjust the settings on your player to stop this.

6. Rating: +0

   

   Do I need a license to use this DVD in church?

   For singing contemporary worship songs in a public meeting you do need a CCLI license. Most churches have one already but if you don't and want to use the DVDs please contact ccli.com for further information

7. Rating: -1

   

   Can I create my own play lists?

   No. As this is a DVD and not a software product the functionality is more limited (and consequently very simple to understand and use). So you can't create your own set lists, however it is very quick and easy to jump back to the song menu inbetween tracks. We have included pre programmed 50 set lists so you have plenty of choice. You can choose a set list of say 7 songs and skip through those you don't want to sing very easily.

8. Rating: +0

   

   Can we use the Worship Backing Band DVD with software like MediaShout or EasyWorship?

   Whilst we don't have a problem with you ripping any of the tracks into one of these software programs, we would suggest that its probably unnecessary. Just run the DVD player in one window and EasyWorship in another. Alternatively you can use your own words to the songs in your normal program and just use the DVD as an audio backing track.