I would like to think that I my teaching method is fun, clear and progressive. I think it is important to get to know pupils on a personal level, and I would like to think that I am not too demanding in my approach! I understand that my students have very busy lives aside from their violin playing, and that music making should be a fun experience for everyone.
I believe that developing a good technique is crucial, and therefore encourage all my students to practice scales and studies as well as building up a list of repertoire they can enjoy and perform.
I also recommend to all my pupils that they should play in at least one out-of-school orchestra, and preferably sing in a choir too!
My students are currently aged between 5 and 19, and range from complete beginners to Music College Graduates.
My Teaching Experience
2004-2006 Eltham Primary School, London
2005-2006 Centre For Young Musicians, London (String Co-ordinator)
2007-2008 Hampreston First School
2006-2008 CODA Music Centre
2005-Current Baden Powell and St Peters Middle School
2005-Current St Edwards Secondary School
2005-Current St Aldhelms Primary School
2001-Current Private Pupils
I am qualified to teach from complete beginners to post grade 8 standard. I enter pupils for exams with the ABRSM board, and for complete beginners I incorporate the Colour String method into my lessons.
www.colourstrings.co.uk
The first 3 lessons act as a trial for both myself and the student, and on rare occasions, I may decide that for some reason the lessons or my teaching method is not suited to the student. In this instance I will contact you to cancel future lessons, however, lessons already paid for will not be refunded.
The relationship between pupil and teacher is important for good progress to be made and if the above situation does occur, I will always recommend a suitable course of action.
Can I take exams?
Yes. I enter pupils for ABRSM exams, and recommend doing exams as part of the course for good progress.
Can I come in with my child to his/her lesson?
The first 3 lessons act as a trial for both myself and the student. Parents are welcome to sit in on these lessons, however after the initial trial period parents may attend the lessons by invitation only. Some children work better with their parents there, and some without. For children younger than 10, parental attendance is nearly always recommended.
When can I start?
You can begin at any time, provided you have an instrument! Please phone for my current availability.
How much does it cost?
£12 - 30 minutes
£24 - 60 minutes
Length of lesson will be advised on application.
Lessons must be paid for in full at the end of each lesson, and payment is by cash only.
Sorry no cheques.
You will also be required to buy books as and when we need them, so please be prepared for this extra cost, especially at the beginning. Within the first year of lessons I expect the cost of books to be between £18.00 and £35.00 depending of level of progression.
The other cost is the cost of buying a violin. As your child grows and requires a larger violin you should be able to trade your current one in to reduce the cost,
The Initial cost of a decent starter violin with case and bow, is usually between £50 and £150, depending on the quality you want. I will be able to advise on any aspect of buying an instrument if you require. When purchasing, it is worth remembering that violins never lose their value.
Can you travel to me?
Unfortunately not. You must be prepared to come to my home for your violin lesson.
Cancellations
To cancel a lesson, please call. I reserve the right to charge for any cancellation made with less than 24 hours notice.
Attendance
Please do not arrive more than 5 minutes early without calling ahead.
Parents must pick up promptly.
How to book
Lessons are available by appointment, and my usual teaching hours for children at school are between 4.00-6.30pm, Mon - Friday.
Due to my busy playing schedule, my weekly routine is never the same from week to week so lessons will usually need to be arranged on a weekly basis.
Please call or send me a text if you would like more information, or to book a trial lesson. 07915 654570