I have been teaching  piano and violin since 1999, and during that time have a great many children, and many adults, much of it generated through word-of-mouth recommendation.

I consider myself a patient, encouraging and fun teacher, whilst not being afraid to set down clear goals and expectations. Lessons are highly structured, with time being devoted to technical, aural and music reading abilities in equal measure. There is invariably also room for some fun and silliness along the way!

I can teach both ABRSM and Guildhall-Trinity exam syllabuses (including jazz grades) right up to Diploma level, with pupils often achieving Merit or Distinction. However, I strongly believe that no-one should be forced to sit an exam, and I am equally happy to teach at a more relaxed, recreational level if desired. Many children respond well to following the Graded music exam system, which introduces new technical skills at regular intervals in a gentle and logical manner, and gives them clear goals and a strong sense of achievement. For others, I may take elements of this system, whilst focusing more on improvisation, perhaps in a jazz or pop style, possibly with a view to writing their own music. I encourage all my pupils to keep a ‘running repertoire’ of pieces, ensuring they always have plenty of pieces that they can play confidently alongside more challenging projects.

Pupils learning violin with me also have the benefit of my piano accompaniment skills in every lesson – even scales sound more exciting with a jazzy accompaniment added! I am equally keen to develop ensemble skills in my piano pupils, and will often play duets with them, or improvise together.

I hold a current CRB certificate, have a schools ‘Safeguarding Children’ certificate, an NSPCC Child Protection Awareness certificate, and am happy to provide references upon request.

Lessons can be either at your home or at my teaching studio in Malvern Wells (where parents are welcome to sit in on the lessons, or wait in the sitting room. Free cup of tea included!).

30 mins lesson £17.50

45 min lesson £26.25

1 hour lesson £35.00          

To ensure maximum progress and enjoyment lessons should be once a week during term time. Lessons during the school holidays are also advised, but are optional.