Here are a list of the questions I am most often asked. Click on each one for further details:
- What instruments do you teach?
Piano – all grades. Keyboard: beginner to grade 5. I do not follow one particular method or course, but offer a varied programme of study tailored to the individual. I aim to produce well-rounded musicians and therefore I routinely include theory of music, aural training, and musicianship in lessons alongside practical skills. I also offer music theory tuition to grade 5 standard for those wishing to have separate theory lessons. - How much do lessons cost and when do you teach?
The current lesson fees at school are £12.50 for 30 minutes and £8.50 for 20 minutes. Group lessons (keyboard only) are also sometimes available. I teach most weekdays, when my timetable is full, I operate a waiting list and contact you when a suitable vacancy arises. Please note that after school lessons are particularly sought after and therefore seldom become available as for most students, tuition is ongoing. If after an initial free consultation it is agreed that lessons will commence then lessons are invoiced and payable at the beginning of each school half term. - What ages do you teach?
I take students from age 7 but much depends on the individual pupil’s maturity and aptitude. There is no upper age limit! - What kind of music do you teach?
I teach most styles of music from classical repertoire to lighter jazz and popular styles and encourage students to choose material from a wide range of genres. I do not have much experience of teaching rock or jazz improvisation. - What instrument will I need?
Pianists will need regular access to an acoustic (strung) or digital piano. The instrument used for practice should have the bare minimum of 61 touch sensitive keys and ideally pupils will need the full compliment of 88 weighted piano action keys as they progress. Keyboard players will need an electronic keyboard with a minimum of 49 full sized keys; these vary greatly, for more information see the parents’ page of my website. All instruments require regular maintenance and acoustic pianos require tuning at least once a year. - What else will I need?
Music books - I generally suggest to allow up to £25 a year up to grade 5 standard; music for the higher grades will generally be more. I normally obtain books on your behalf and invoice accordingly. Access to a CD player and also the Internet is useful. - Do you enter pupils for examinations?
The majority of my pupils work towards music exams at sometime during their tuition to gain an independent measure of their ability. They are a goal to aim for; an excellent motivational tool and the confidence that is gained from a successful exam result should not be underestimated. My exam pass rate is excellent, currently 100% - see the exams page for details of recent successes. However I feel very strongly that learning an instrument is not just about being able to pass examinations and disagree with progressing straight from one grade to the next without pausing to develop technique or to widen the repertoire. There is absolutely no obligation to take any form of examination, however and I welcome and encourage those who wish to learn without the pressure of formal assessment.