Subjects

Interview

Which subject(s) do you teach?
I teach cello (including baroque cello), chamber music and theory.

Tell me about your qualifications.
I studied at the Royal Northern College of Music, at both undergraduate and postgraduate level and Chetham's School of Music prior to that.

What kind of experience do you have?
I have a very diverse performing career and this has helped me to develop experience in all sorts of musical genres, which I find has greatly aided my teaching. As a teacher, I have taught a wide range of standards, from beginners to degree level students. I currently teach at the Junior Royal Norther College of Music, the University of York, Yorkshire Young Musicians and the Oxford Cello School. I have experience in teaching amateur cellists too and recently guided one student through her ABRSM Grade 8 and Diploma.

How much do you charge?
I usually charge £30 an hour and £15 for a half hour lesson. However, I'll also give a half price consultation/first lesson. After that I'm happy to take a reduced rate on a block booking of 10 lessons by giving you one lesson free.
In terms of travel charges, it depends on distance and any parking charges, so I prefer to deal with each case individually, and if I can tie multiple lessons into one trip I'll happily reduce any travel charges.

Where do you teach?
Ideally I'll teach at home, I think it is better for children to come to a music lesson rather than to have it from the comfort of their living room. However, if this isn't possible I am willing to travel locally, or further afield if I can tie multiple lessons/concerts into one trip.

When are you available?
My schedule is flexible, so I can usually teach most days of the week, although I'd rather not teach at weekends if possible.

Which ages and levels do you teach?
I'm experienced at teaching all standards, from beginners through to degree level students. I'm also happy to teach adults, though in children I wouldn't recommend starting before the age of 6.

Which qualifications do you prepare your students for?
I work towards ABRSM exams, it gives the students a good target to aim for. However, I don't insist on this, they're just good markers but no more than that in my opinion.

Do you have an up-to-date CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) disclosure certificate?
Yes. I currently work for several organisations and have CRB certificates for each one.

Describe your arrangements for online tutoring.
I don't feel learning the cello online is beneficial, so I'm not prepared to do this.

Do you belong to any professional organisations?
Yes, I belong to the Musicians Union.

Where and with whom did you train?
I trained at the Royal Northern College of Music

Tell me about some of your current students.
At more advanced levels, I have recently helped students gain places at the Royal Northern College of Music, Chetham's School of Music, and coached them through degrees at the University of York. I also have a 100% record in getting students through ABRSM exams.

Do you have a personal message for students?
Learn the cello, travel the world, make great friends, have a blast and enjoy it! When you get paid to travel the world playing an instrument, how can anyone say it's geeky? Go for it!

Articles

Why learn an instrument?
Subject: Cello
Tags: cello, cello lessons, learning, sheffield cello lessons, sheffield music
Created: 12/01/2011