B.A. Hons degree in Communication Processes (included basic sound recording, media studies, music journalism,creative writing)
Musicians union

Subjects

Interview

Which subject(s) do you teach?
I teach Keyboards, Piano and Flute but could also teach Descant Recorder if asked to. Lessons can include basic song writing and basic music technology (sound recording, synthesizers, music notation software, software instruments, samplers, sequencers and D.A.W.s (Digital Audio Workstations) if required. I've found teaching these skills particularly beneficial to G.C.S.E. Music students who need to compose and record tunes for their course work, although younger and older students can also enjoy and benefit from them.

Tell me about your qualifications.
BA Hons Degree in Communication Processes which included basic sound recording, media studies, music journalism, and creative writing, which has improved my lyrics. My dissertation was written about music promotion. In the course syllabus it stated that the degree would be relevant to people who wish to teach.

G.C.S.E. music.

What kind of experience do you have?
I have been a semi-pro musician for nearly 20 years and taught keyboards in a school for 10 years. My father was a junior school teacher in charge of music and also ran courses to teach teachers how to teach music. In the 60s his band backed many famous jazz musicians of the time. He taught me how to play my instruments and how to teach. Although I have no official teaching qualifications I had 1 to 1 teaching tuition by my Father. Before I started working teaching instruments I followed him at work for nearly a year, with him giving me advice after each lesson had finished.

How much do you charge?
£10 for half an hour.

Where do you teach?
I teach at home and at pupils' houses. Where I teach depends on the day and area. I currently have some free places in Portchester, Fareham, Lee-on-the-solent or Stubbington in Hampshire.

When are you available?
When I am free depends on where you live and if you are prepared to travel to me, but most evenings and Saturday daytime (except if I am playing in a band that lunch time or traveling early for an evening gig).

Which ages and levels do you teach?
I teach children and adults. I take children from 7, although if 5 or 6 year olds are very keen and have potential I will concider taking them for shorter lessons, perhaps tagged onto a lesson with someone else in the family or a friend who has lessons with me.

Do you have a CRB disclosure certificate?
The school I worked at had my CRB checked but as I no longer work there I'm not sure if it is valid. I could ask pupils or their parents to give me a reference if that will reassure you.

Do you belong to any professional organisations?
Musicians Union.

Do you have a personal message for students?
Patience and being understanding are probably my best qualities for being a teacher. A sense of humour in the right situations can also be productive. Lots of people are good musicians but not all of them have the patience to teach people who struggle with the subject. I know from personal experience from when I was a child that the more someone shouts at a person who is trying hard but finding something difficult, the harder it becomes for that person to do well. That doesn't meant that I will be too soft with anyone messing about but am understanding towards those who are keen but not naturaly gifted in music.

I give structured lessons but do not take people through exams. Exams can be too restricting, emphasizing on either classical or rock. I prefer to take a broader approach with a number of styles and let people learn in their own time while trying to make the lessons as stress free and fun as possible, but without sacrificing theory and technical skills. If my students wish to know what level they are on I'm happy to teach them a few grade pieces to let them know their level but don't put them in for the grades themselves. Children are welcome to take their grades through school while having lessons with me too though.

Articles

Suggested Reading for Sound Recording and Mixing
Subject: Music Technology
Topic: recommendations (study materials)
Created: 11/03/2010