Subjects

Interview

Which subject(s) do you teach?
Music Theory, Viola, Violin, Piano, Singing, folk fiddle

Tell me about your qualifications.
I have Grade 8 Viola (ABRSM), Grade 8 Singing (Distinction, ABRSM), Grade 6 Piano (ABRSM) Grade 5 Piano (Rockschool) Grade 5 Theory (ABRSM, Distinction). I am currently entering the third year of a Bmus(hons) at the Birmingham Conservatoire specialising in viola.

What kind of experience do you have?
I have extensive orchestral experience with youth orchestras, adult amatuer orchestras, as a paid professional and in Conservatoire. I have been involved in many chamber music projects, again as an amateur and a professional. As a soloist I have also appeared in a number of concerts, and with number of amateur orchestras. In 2009, I was the winner of the Hertford Young Musician of the Year award (strings, and overall winner). I was also an accompanist for the Broxbourne School choir, from 2007-2009, and conductor of the Broxbourne School string group 2008-2009.

Outside of classical music, I have had experience in a wide range of other genres. I have grown up with folk music, and have always taken a great interest in it. As a singer and violist I performed with a band at venues and festivals across the country. I have also played in Klezmer bands, the Birmingham Conservatoire Folk Ensemble, and a number of small groups.

As a teacher, I have had broad experience in different environments. I've taught theory, composition and pre-exam coaching one to one. I have also taken classroom lessons, at GCSE and below. More recently, I have become a music educator, with roles as an assistant and a workshop leader, for a steel pan band. With larger groups, I have had experience of leading folk strings workshops at festivals.

How much do you charge?
£18/hour is my usual rate, and £10 for half hour. I would ask for travel expenses, if teaching outside of my immediate area.

Where do you teach?
I teach either in my own home (Birmingham, B16) or at the Birmingham Conservatoire in the city centre.

When are you available?
Most evenings and weekends. Some afternoons, depending on my schedule.

Which ages and levels do you teach?
I teach all ages! In terms of levels:

Viola: Up to grade 8
Violin: Up to grade 5
Classical piano: Up to grade 4
Rockschool piano: Up to grade 5
Singing: Up to grade 6
Theory: Up to grade 5
Folk fiddle: Beginner to intermediate.

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

Articles

Avoiding and Recovering from Musical Injury
Subject: Viola
Tags: general advice for string players, viola
Created: 26/07/2011