B.Mus
Professor of Cello, Conservatorio do Algarve, Portugal
CRB Approved
Musicians Union
References are available upon request

Subjects

(click subjects to see other tutors in this area)

Personal Message

I realise that my profile may appear as though I am only interested in teaching advanced or mature students, but one of the biggest pleasures possible is to teach pupils who have never played before, or only achieved a limited standard. There is a wonderful repertoire for the cello, and I want to help as many people as I can to discover it. Of course, it does take a little bit of effort, but it's worth it!

Interview

Which subject(s) do you teach?
I teach the Cello, Chamber Music, and Theory.

For people who have either learnt the cello long ago, and given up, I can help you quickly get back your old skills.

For more advanced students, I can improve your technique and sound production and help to iron out those pesky bad habits that always seem to creep in.

One of the things I like to do with my pupils is to play with them, (Duets,exercises and so forth), as this always boosts confidence, helps with intonation, one of the great bugbears of stringed instruments, but most importantly because it's enjoyable and helps students feel that they are not locked in an ivory tower with a load of tedious scales!

I have a full CV available to anyone who wants a copy.

Tell me about your qualifications.
B.Mus in performance from Canterbury University, New Zealand.

What kind of experience do you have?
Turned professional at 16. Came to London in 1972, where I continued my studies with Antoni Pini, whilst a member of the RPO. Joined the LPO in 1974, and was made co-principal cello in 1978. I left the LPO in mid 1986 to freelance in London, mainly to broaden my repertoire. I was lucky to work for the London sinfomietta, specialising in contemporary music, as well as the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields.I also formed a chamber group called Syrinx, which broadcast regularly for the BBC, including many of my own arrangements. I was always first call second cello for the Melos Ensemble. I then was invited to Portugal, where I was Professor of cello at Conservatorio do Algarve from 1986/1996. I returned to the UK in1996 in order, hopefully to give the benefit of my experience to Private Students here.

How much do you charge?
I charge £30 per hour for individual lessons, or £20 per half-hour.

Where do you teach?
From home. I am within 1 hour's drive (max) from Doncaster, Retford Scunthorpe, Lincoln and Worksop.

When are you available?
No Sundays, and no later than 8pm finish.

Which ages and levels do you teach?
All.

Do you have an up-to-date CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) disclosure certificate?
Yes.

Describe your arrangements for online tutoring.
N/A.

Do you belong to any professional organisations?
Musicians' Union.

Where and with whom did you train?
In New Zealand with Wilfred Simenauer, (Principal cello of the RLPO)..With Zdenek Konicek of the Prague String Quartet in New Zealand. At the Elder Conservatorium in Adelaide with James Whitehead (Principal cello with the Tonhalle orhestra), and in London with Antoni Pini.,notable soloist and Principal cello at the Royal Opera House..

Do you have a personal message for students?
I believe that making music is fun, but it does require self-discipline, which is a useful skill in all walks of life. Playing a musical is one of the most pleasurable and satisfying of all, whether as a hobby, or with an eye on becoming a prodessional.

Music should be a pleasure, not a chore, so enjoy!