Subjects

Interview

Which subject(s) do you teach?
I teach Harp (pedal and lever) and Piano.
I have a rounded approach including creative music making and improvisation from the first term as well as technique and notation, interpretation etc.

Tell me about your qualifications.
Certified Harp Therapy Practitioner. Graduate of the International Harp Therapy Program.
BA (Hons) University of York.
Grade 8 Harp ABRSM (1996).

What kind of experience do you have?
I began teaching the harp in 2001. Most of my teaching experience has been at home. Now that my own children are getting older I have time to take on more pupils and promote harp playing. I'm finding I'm getting lots of interest. I regularly have pupils choosing to take exams with Trinity Guildhall and ABRSM and have a 100% pass rate. I also teaching small groups at a local school to young children between the ages of 4 and 8.
I have been playing the harp freelance for many years and more recently have taken the harp into more unusual settings, such as St. Jame's Hospital Bexley Wing playing for cancer patients, during birthing at hospital and home, in nursing homes, yoga classes and community settings. I also have considerable orchestral experience.
I have been teaching piano for six months after initially being asked by a friend to teach her child. I have a very child-friendly approach and a keen interest in developing my own piano playing which is currently around Grade 6 standard.

How much do you charge?
I charge £22 per hour and £12 per half hour.

Where do you teach?
I normally teach at home in York.

When are you available?
Monday - Saturday, various hours by arrangement.

Which ages and levels do you teach?
Harp - all ages and levels, piano - beginners. I especially enjoy teaching children. From time to time I run introductory group harp courses, for which harps are provided. The harp is also a popular instrument for adults to learn.

Do you have a CRB disclosure certificate?
Yes.

Do you belong to any professional organisations?
Musician's Union.

Where and with whom did you train?
I have trained with Christina Tourin over the past 5 years in the International Harp Therapy Program.
Previously I studied with Dorothy Gilbertson from the age of 8.

Tell me about some of your current students.
I have a nice mix of students. I have boys and girls of varying abilities (including special needs), and a number of adults. Piano beginners from age 6. We are currently preparing and looking forward to an Early Grades Masterclass due to take place in February 2010 with renowned harpist Frank Sternfeld who was with Opera North for 30 years.

Do you have a personal message for students?
The beautiful heart-warming tone of the harp is unique and accessible to all abilities.

Articles

Harp Dreams Fulfilled
Subject: Harp
Topic: recommendations (websites)
Created: 13/04/2009