Piano for adults
Don’t be afraid! Whether you’re a complete beginner or have previously had lessons, we’ll go at a pace to suit you.
At your first lesson I’ll see where you’re at and take it from there. If you’re just starting, we’ll go step by step. In the beginning we’ll often use my favourite method book so you can see how it all fits together, but when you’re ready we’ll branch out to try different things, including music in a variety of styles. And from the very first lesson we’ll be playing together, with and without music (and including if you’re having lessons online).
If you’re interested, you can also learn how to structure chords and chord progressions, so you can eventually start creating your own arrangements of songs or try composing some of your own, or you can simply learn how to play basic chords so you can read song charts (in the same way many guitarists do).
But whatever we do, we’ll take it at a speed that suits you, and I’ll make sure you know exactly what you’re doing and why, because that helps put you in control of your own musical journey.
Piano for younger learners (from age seven)
Starting their musical journey with piano provides your child with a wonderful education in harmony, rhythm, and coordination, which is great preparation if they go on to play another instrument or to sing.
They will learn how to read and interpret the notes on the page, an invaluable skill to have, and one that means that when they’re older they’ll have the confidence to work out the notes when a new piece of music is put in front of them, something many adults who had lessons when they were young are too scared to do. If you’re going to read music, I think it’s vital you understand what is happening and why, so we will often do theory and other music activities away from the piano to reinforce skills.
My younger students also learn how to be creative, and it’s with this in mind that we also do improvisation activities (making stuff up!), playing together, singing, and composing and recording of songs and compositions.
This approach develops young musicians who are well-rounded, confident, and creative, and who invariably tell me they wish their lessons were longer!
Please note: Children are ready for lessons when they can concentrate for the length of the lesson, follow directions, recognise and write basic numbers and the alphabet, know their left hand from their right, and have some control over their hands and fingers. It can take a while for some children to achieve a good balance between what they will be required to do physically and intellectually. In my opinion, there is no rush. It’s much better to wait a year or two and have your child attend a group music-making class that includes singing and rhythm activities in the meantime. Apart from being lots of fun, it will help develop all the above skills, so that when they do start lessons they’re really ready. For more information, visit the FAQ page.