Subjects

Interview

Which subject(s) do you teach?
I teach classical, jazz and traditioal Irish violin, viola, piano and music theory. I am also widely experienced in chamber music- particularly with string quartets, trios and quintets.

Tell me about your qualifications.
I have a Grade Eight Associated Board qulification in both violin and piano. I am currently studying towards my BMus Honours Degree in Music Performance (violin) at Trinity College of Music, where I am also studying the viola. I am working towards a performance and teaching diploma in the viola which I hope to have by the end of this academic year.

What kind of experience do you have?
I have a long and varied history of teaching. I began when I was seventeen (seven years ago!) and since then I have been teaching students, both privately and in schools. I am happy to take group lessons in any of the above, as I understand that children often respond in a postive way when working and learning from each other. I am happy to teach beginners from the age of four. I have a strong family history of Traditional Irish Music and therefore I am experienced in teaching and performing tradional fiddle. My grand father, Leo Rowsome was a world famous teacher, performer and maker of the uilleann pipes. During his life time, he performed in Carnegie Hall and was the first ever Irish musician to record for the BBC. His pupils include Liam O'flynn and Paddy Moloney of the Chieftans.

How much do you charge?
I charge £25 an hour for lessons at my home and £30 pounds an hour for lessons at the students' home. I am happy to negoiate the fee and duration of the lessons subject to the requirements of the student.

Where do you teach?
I teach from my home in the Isle of Dogs, which is five minutes walk from Island Gardens DLR Station and just twenty minutes from Greenwich. I am willing to travel to the students home provided the venue is accessible by public transport.

When are you available?
I am available most weekday evenings and at weekends. As my week can be busy, I am unable to guarantee the same time every week, but I am happy to find the most convenient time for the student.

Which ages and levels do you teach?
I am experienced with students of all ages, including beginners. I teach violin,piano and viola to Grade Eight and above and music theory to Grade Five.

Do you have an up-to-date CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) disclosure certificate?
No. However, I can get one if needed.

Where and with whom did you train?
Chethams School of Music
Royal Irish Academy of Music
Trinity College of Music, London

Tell me about some of your current students.
I currently teach students of age 5, 7 (and two adults- over 21!)

Do you have a personal message for students?
It is never too late to learn an instrument. There is a method of teaching with suits every individual and it is the responsibiity of the teacher to discover the best possible situation in which a maximum level of learning can be acheived.

Articles

Music is for Everyone
Subject: Violin
Topic: anecdotes and stories
Created: 26/12/2008