About

I am a piano teacher with over 30 years of experience playing – and being taught – piano (in fact, I am still in touch with my childhood teacher!). In recent years I have won the Maidenhead Music Festival’s open recital class twice, and was asked to represent the region at the prestigious Emanuel Trophy Competition in London (unfortunately I couldn’t make it, but it was an honour to be asked!). I have extensive experience in a wide range of music, from the traditional classical repertoire, to jazz and contemporary music, chart music, and freeform improvisation.

I have occasionally performed professionally throughout the decades too, playing pieces by other composers, both traditional and contemporary; my own compositions; and sometimes giving performances of pure improvisation.

I aim to offer fun, friendly, considerate and patient lessons that all the while keep people progressing and moving forward, whether that is through graded exams or otherwise.

I see each student as an individual who will have different ambitions and feelings about the piano, different tastes in music, and an approach that works for them. I try to tailor my lessons accordingly. I firmly believe in empowering students and seeing piano lessons as supportive and collaborative, rather than teaching in a ‘top down’ way, where there is no room for questioning or alternative approaches. It is also important, in my view, to recognise that people learn in different ways and to adapt teaching methods to reflect this.

Ultimately I see playing the piano as something that can be a pleasure from the very first time a note is played, and potentially a lifelong skill. I don’t see playing the piano so much as a competition to be better than others, but rather as part of a musical journey that is different for everyone, no matter where they currently find themselves in terms of ability or anything else. As well as developing our understanding and skills, this journey includes finding and exploring what speaks to us, as well as developing confidence in our own musical abilities, choices and interpretations.

I teach children and adults of all levels and abilities, and all Grade exams. I also appreciate that exams are not for everyone, nor are they essential to develop as a pianist (though some like the challenge and sense of achievement); as I said above, I try to adapt to each person and find what is right for them.

I run regular student concerts too, so students have the opportunity to perform or just listen to others playing. This should hopefully be an experience to enjoy and take pride in! Among other things, performing can help develop confidence, our ability to communicate both musically and in general, and resilience to nervousness (although it’s completely optional!).

Lessons usually take place at my house in Datchet, which is near both Windsor and Slough, where I have a Steinway grand piano that I take care to keep well maintained – I would like to think it is inspiring for people to learn on! Alternatively, I am happy to offer online lessons via internet videolink too.

If you are interested, I offer the first two lessons as a trial with no expectation of longer commitment, which can help you decide whether my lessons are right for you.

Please do get in touch if you would like to discuss further!