For intermediate or advanced players, you should bring one or two major pieces which show the level you are currently at. These need to be pieces which you have already reached a basic level of fluency with, and ideally pieces you have performed from start to finish (even if that’s just in the lesson with your teacher). Try to choose pieces which you really enjoy playing and which you feel confident with. I will need to be informed in advance what pieces you will be playing, and you will need to provide a digital copy of the score well in advance of the lesson.

We will use your consultation lesson to establish what level you are currently at in your learning  journey, and discuss any specific goals you have in mind for your lessons and performances. It’s also an opportunity for us to get a feel for each other and decide whether we could work well together. You are not committed to enrolment until we both agree that it is a good fit for you.

A reliable internet connection is essential. I recommend a good microphone separate to your computer, which does not distort the sound and allows for as accurate a reproduction as possible. We will be using Zoom for all lessons. Please ensure you download the Zoom app prior to your lessons, so that you can test the settings. You may need to adjust audio levels as appropriate. Always enable ‘original sound’ and ‘high fidelity music mode’ where possible. Make sure that you test your levels prior to your sessions so you are ready. Make sure that I have a full view of you and your instrument (a side view for pianists, where I can see your hands, and a front-to-side view for double bass players). We can do a final sound and visual check in the consultation lesson.

If you miss the 6-week enrolment and early enrolment period, you may register for late enrolment up to 2 weeks after the start of the term. After this, booking will then be closed until the next term’s enrolment. You may then apply for early enrolment from 8 weeks before the start of the next new term.

All lessons are paid for in advance, therefore cancellations are at your own loss. Please consider this commitment prior to enrolling. 

Enrolment is for at least one full term. This is to ensure that you are making a commitment to learning and progressing, and helps us to plan performances appropriately.

You will only need to go through the registration and consultation lesson once. After this, you will automatically be approved for the next term enrolment. If you miss a term, you will still be approved for subsequent term enrolment, but be aware that you will not be eligible for early enrolment. Spaces can fill up fast and you may not be guaranteed a slot. This is to prioritise those who are committed to their ongoing learning and development.

Beginners should aim for at least 10-20 minutes a day as a start. For intermediate players I recommend at least an hour’s daily practice (with a maximum of 1 or 2 days off). For advanced students, this should increase to at least 90 mins a day. Be mindful that 90% of your progress will happen during your weekly practice, and your lessons are most effective when you have something to work with.

Before you enrol, we will both agree on a regular weekly time slot for your lessons. This can then be set during booking by selecting the ‘recurring’ option. Please be aware that this time slot applies to the current term of booking only. To secure your slot for the next term, you are advised to enrol as early as possible, as slots can fill up fast.

I have professional protocols in place to ensure the safest possible environment for your lessons. I highly prioritise my students’ safety and wellbeing and endeavour to provide a safe and supportive environment for online lessons. Parents of young students are encouraged to join the consultation in the first instance, and may request to be in the room for subsequent lessons if desired. Be assured that I have an up-to-date DBS which can be provided on request.

You may wish to have your teacher or another professional musician assess your level prior to registering. I will, however, be able to discern your level at your consultation lesson. I will then assign you to the appropriate lesson duration. Please note that the minimum level for enrolment is ABRSM Grade 5 or equivalent.

My regular teaching hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 12pm-1pm and 4pm-8pm, subject to change.