Teaching experience
I have a Post Graduate Certificate of Education in Secondary School Music from the Institute of Education, University London and spent some twenty years teaching in independent schools. I have led large, successful music departments as Director of Music at some of the most prestigious schools in country including The Lady Eleanor Holles School and St. Paul's Girls' School (see below for a video of me conducting the St. Paul's Girls' School Chamber OrchestraI playing a movement from the St Paul's Suite by my illustrious predecessor, Gustav Holst.) I am widely experienced in creative educational approaches and in the various processes of public examinations, music scholarship auditions and university applications.
Since returning to life as a freelance musician I have been delighted to take up the post of harpsichord tutor and teacher of chamber music and historical performance practice at the Centre for Early Music Performance and Research at the University of Birmingham, where my responsibilities include lecturing and coaching undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Since returning to life as a freelance musician I have been delighted to take up the post of harpsichord tutor and teacher of chamber music and historical performance practice at the Centre for Early Music Performance and Research at the University of Birmingham, where my responsibilities include lecturing and coaching undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Private teaching and coaching
I offer a comprehensive service in preparing and coaching students for specific examinations, auditions and interviews. I have extensive experience of A Level and GCSE Music as well as Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) Performing and Theory examinations. I am experienced in working with students from a wide variety of ages and experience, including primary school, secondary school, university undergraduates and postgraduates, and adults.
University Entrance Interviews (including Oxbridge)
Coaching and preparation through study and discussion of musical topics beyond the A Level specifications and development of interview technique. The sessions will aim to broaden and develop the students' own specific areas of interest and to enable the students to present themselves as well-informed, confident and reflective candidates.
Independent Schools 11+ Music Scholarship Auditions
Coaching and accompaniment for audition pieces through thorough and thoughtful rehearsals, focusing on areas beyond the technical aspects of performance, including knowledge of the context of the music (structural and historical), matters of interpretation, stage presentation and interview technique. The sessions will also develop the students' broader musical interests.
A Level, AS Level and GCSE Music
Coaching and preparation for all aspects of the examinations, both course work and examined sections. The sessions will cover whichever aspects of the course for which the student feels they need specific support.
Associated Board Performing Examinations
Coaching and accompanying the student regularly and helping with all aspects of performing and preparation for the examination.
Associated Board Performing Examination Aural Tests
Preparation and practice for the aural test part, including strategies to help overcome any specific difficulties the student may have with particular tests.
Associated Board Theory Examinations
Preparation for the theory examination consisting of detailed guidance on all areas of the syllabus, written exercises and working through past papers.
Regular sessions can start up to three months prior to an interview, audition or examination, and up to one year prior to A Level, AS Level, GCSE and theory examinations.
University Entrance Interviews (including Oxbridge)
Coaching and preparation through study and discussion of musical topics beyond the A Level specifications and development of interview technique. The sessions will aim to broaden and develop the students' own specific areas of interest and to enable the students to present themselves as well-informed, confident and reflective candidates.
Independent Schools 11+ Music Scholarship Auditions
Coaching and accompaniment for audition pieces through thorough and thoughtful rehearsals, focusing on areas beyond the technical aspects of performance, including knowledge of the context of the music (structural and historical), matters of interpretation, stage presentation and interview technique. The sessions will also develop the students' broader musical interests.
A Level, AS Level and GCSE Music
Coaching and preparation for all aspects of the examinations, both course work and examined sections. The sessions will cover whichever aspects of the course for which the student feels they need specific support.
Associated Board Performing Examinations
Coaching and accompanying the student regularly and helping with all aspects of performing and preparation for the examination.
Associated Board Performing Examination Aural Tests
Preparation and practice for the aural test part, including strategies to help overcome any specific difficulties the student may have with particular tests.
Associated Board Theory Examinations
Preparation for the theory examination consisting of detailed guidance on all areas of the syllabus, written exercises and working through past papers.
Regular sessions can start up to three months prior to an interview, audition or examination, and up to one year prior to A Level, AS Level, GCSE and theory examinations.
Private pupils
I am able to take a small number of private pupils on the harpsichord or the piano. I bring to my teaching a wealth of experience working with young people and adults of all abilities. I aim to develop in students a secure technique through practice and a broader understanding of the repertoire through listening and discussion of the music. Above all I hope to nurture a long term love for music in all its many forms. Please contact me directly through the contact form on the Home page of this website to discuss private lessons.