Piano
I love getting to know each of my students and discovering what inspires and motivates them. Each lesson is different, according to the needs of the person I am teaching. I believe that every one of my pupils is able to make progress in achieving musical goals and developing a satisfying and lifelong hobby. For some, music will become a subject to study at a higher level, or even a career choice.
In lessons we explore technique and posture, musical repertoire, play games and do activities to support learning of musical concepts.
Music is at the heart of each lesson, with time to enjoy performing what has been studied during the week, and to enjoy playing duets. Rhythms are explored using percussion instruments and clapping games. I use movement and songs, especially with young children, to reinforce musical ideas. I like to explore composition and improvisation alongside more traditional technical work and repertoire. My students enjoy a vast variety of musical styles and some work towards Trinity's Rock and Pop exams alongside the traditional Trinity and ABRSM exams. We enjoy an annual recital when all students have the opportunity to play the lovely Grand Piano in All Saints' Church, Nettleham.
Young beginners learn musicianship skills through songs, poetry and movement, usually alongside the Piano Safari method, which encapsulates my teaching style and philosophy beautifully!
I am happy to work with students with additional needs - do please contact me to discuss your requirements.
Study of music theory alongside instrumental learning is important and is part of each lesson. When students are ready, they study music theory, often using the Trinity theory syllabus. Where possible I teach theory in small groups.
Working with Adults
During the day, when most children are at school, I am available to teach adult students and home educated children. Some adults are complete beginners, some are returning to lessons after a break, some are wanting to build on skills they began learning in childhood. Adults come with a mixed range of musical experiences - some good, others not so good! My pupils agree that I am patient and gentle with them! I work with adult students towards their chosen goals and enjoy seeing confidence grow and skills develop. (For adult pupils learning brass instruments my orchestral workshops give an opportunity to develop ensemble playing and to meet like-minded people.) Many adults learning piano find that improvising and playing by ear is very releasing after years of trying to get to grips with musical notation (and once this has been discovered, the dots on the page become less of a mystery…). Whether or not we explore playing by ear, the musical journey is guaranteed to be exciting, eye-opening and challenging – and to bring joy and satisfaction.
Online Lessons
Online lessons are available, via Zoom or Skype, for students unable to attend lessons in person.
