I have been playing the piano now for over 20 years. For the past 10-15 years I have been working in uninspiring jobs which have been completely unrelated to my real passion which is music. In 2008, after a few years of trying to persuade myself to take the plunge, I suddenly thought to myself, why don't I do something that I grew up learning about and something which inspires me?

Having spent a lot of time and money learning my craft, it was now time to pass on this knowledge to children and adults alike. The enjoyment gained from teaching such an interesting and evolving subject has convinced me that I have made the right decision. The job is interesting and varied and it is the students who make it this way. I treat my students as individuals with differing needs and wishes. My satisfaction is gained from entering students into exams with ABRSM and seeing them pass. However, there is also much to be gained from teaching for fun where people just want to learn to play what they want. Music is such a beautiful addition to life and it can improve children's educational possibilities, increase concentration, relieve stress and bring a sense of achievement as well as bring some extra fun into your life. Adults can also gain from sharpened memory and alertness.

Some advice for parents: If you want your child to start music lessons, ensure that they have the time and commitment to practise, otherwise it will become a frustrating time for all involved. Music lessons are a commitment which requires time. It is useful to create a practice diary to see how often your child can practise, taking into account all other activities your child is involved in.