BA(Hons) Cantab
MPerf
CRB checked

Subjects

Interview

Which subject(s) do you teach?
I teach classical piano at all levels, from beginners to post-diploma. I am very happy to take students through ABRSM (or other board) examinations, in the practical and theory grades. I also enjoy teaching students who want to play for pleasure.

Tell me about your qualifications.
I graduated from Clare College, Cambridge University with a Double First in Music in 2008. I then went on to do a Master's in piano performance at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, where I am now a Fellow. I also have Grade 8 Percussion and Drum Kit.

What kind of experience do you have?
I have private teaching experience with all abilities and ages, and teach piano to undergraduates at City University, London. I was previously Musical Director of 'The Academy', a musical-theatre project for youth that runs in South Cambridgeshire during school holidays, where I worked with kids aged 8-16 of a range of abilities. As a performer I have given solo recitals in most of the major UK venues (including Royal Festival Hall, Purcell Room, Wigmore Hall), amongst many other venues. I am represented as a performer by the highly prestigious Young Classical Artists Trust. I have recorded two CDs, which both met with critical acclaim and are available through iTunes or Amazon. Please visit my website for more details.

How much do you charge?
I charge £35 per hour - plus £5 if I have to travel - for piano or theory lessons. Including travel, my rates are: £40 for an hour; £35 for 45 minutes; £30 for 30 minutes. I offer discounts for longer lessons (which can be split between pupils in the same house) as follows: £55 for 90 minutes, £65 for two hours.

Where do you teach?
I can teach from home or am happy to travel to most areas within Zones 1-3, subject to additional travel expenses where required.

When are you available?
I am available most days, including evenings and weekends.

Which ages and levels do you teach?
I teach all ages and levels.

Which qualifications do you prepare your students for?
I always tailor the lessons to suit the specific outcomes the student (or parent) have in mind. I can teach any of the exam boards up to Grade 8 and Diploma. Also very happy to teach post-diploma. Whilst exams can be great things to work towards (plus they count for UCAS points and look good on a CV etc.), my focus is on cultivating the pupil's love and understanding of music and piano playing.

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

Describe your arrangements for online tutoring.
I can tutor theory online.

Where and with whom did you train?
I currently study with Martin Roscoe, at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. Prior to this I studied at the Junior School of the Royal Northern College of Music, with Ian Buckle.

Do you have a personal message for students?
Learning the piano is a great way to stimulate your mind creatively and logically. The concentration skills developed whilst playing an instrument are unparalleled, so if you're looking for lessons for your child, it's an excellent way to help them learn to focus - or if you're an adult learner, it's a fantastic and engrossing hobby to throw yourself into. Learning an instrument has been shown to improve performance in other subjects too, such as maths and langauges. You might be surprised at how quickly you or your child can make progress, and at how enjoyable it can be!

Articles

A Great Book for Older Beginners
Subject: Piano
Tags: piano, recommendations (study materials)
Created: 13/09/2010

Practising the piano...
Subject: Piano
Tags: advice (general), piano
Created: 08/07/2010