Lessons
I use a number of methods for teaching depending on the student’s interests and needs. Very young children usually use ‘Dogs & Birds’ (I am a registered teacher for the method) with additional rhythm and composition games as well as counting, clapping and lots of developing of the imagination! However young children will not progress without adult supervision and support between lessons. So although I will teach children as young as 2 or 3, if they are interested, it will only work with a parent or carer committing to the learning too!
Early composing
Currently some of my wonderful younger students are working to their grade 2 and 3 levels, having started with me as very young children. Their sense of rhythm and musicality is way beyond their age because of this really firm, and fun to learn, foundation.
Complete beginners only need to practise for about 5 minutes a day, as long as it is intensive, and not just “doodling” around! (Doodling is great, and to be encouraged, but it’s not included in the practice time!) I don’t insist on 30, or more, minute practices, although of course as students progress, the pieces and songs are longer and there’s more to think about so practising take longer. And I encourage students to listen to other people’s recordings of music to take inspiration, to think critically about performance and, as we say, to “steal ideas”. And I remind them that this is part of their practising!
Some students take examinations, some don’t. We work to students’ interests and strengths, using user friendly examination boards such as London College of Music (recorded exams and leisureplay are particularly popular) Music Teachers Board and some are now trying the Australian examination board, Con Brio, which has a fantastic broad choice of music, and we can ask for more pieces to be accepted on the lists. The only downside is that the higher grades, unlike grade 6 and above for the British examination boards, don’t attract UCAS points, which older teenagers really appreciate collecting.
We also have regular opportunities to perform at student concerts and tea parties and students often perform at schools, in church, in Am Dram etc as well. Students have also achieved very good results at the Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts on many occasions. I am always delighted to help with preparation for such opportunities.
Christmas Tea Party and Concert
So what are you waiting for? I currently have a few vacancies both during the day and in the evening.
I really look forward to hearing from you.