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Piano, Flute, Saxophone, Guitar, Music Theory and Improvisation
Lessons in Wallasey, Wirral
Learn the music you've always wanted to play, with lessons designed specifically for you based on the way that you learn best!
What I offer...
PIANO
Age: 7+
Levels: All
Styles: Classical, Jazz
Contemporary, Pop, Indie, Dance
MUSIC THEORY
Age: 7+
Levels: All
Styles: Grades 1-8, SATB, Figured Bass
SAXOPHONE
Age: 10+
Levels: All
Styles: Classical, Jazz
IMPROVISATION
Age: 7+
Levels: All
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Contemporary,
Pop, Indie, Dance
FLUTE
Age: 8+
Levels: Beginners to Intermediate,
Styles: Classical, Pop
GUITAR
Age: 7+
Levels: Beginners
Styles: Classical, Folk, Accompanying
Frequently Asked Questions:
How much do lessons cost?
Lessons in my Wallasey studio are:
30 mins - £15
45 mins - £22.50
60 mins - £30
Students who would like to have a regular weekly lesson at the same time each week pay monthly. There is also an option to book flexible lessons.
Why are lesson fees so low?
I am a member of the Musician's Union, which sets the rate for music lessons £40 per hour. However, it is important to me ethically to ensure my lessons are affordable for people living in my own community. My lesson fees will always reflect this commitment.
How old does my child need to be to start lessons?
As a guide, I would say 7 is about the right age to start piano, guitar and music theory. Some children will be ready to learn at a younger age, and some would be better waiting a few more years. Starting too soon often means that the child quickly looses interest. If you are not sure if your child is ready, please feel free to get in touch for a chat.
Saxophones are heavy instruments! Children are usually ready between 9 and 11 years old, once they can comfortably hold the instrument and reach the keys. Flute can be started a little earlier.
Am I too old to learn?
You are never too old to learn! My oldest student is in his 90's, and thoroughly enjoys his lessons!
Will I need my own instrument?
Yes, you will need to have your own instrument before starting your lessons. Instruments can be quite a big investment, so its often worth renting at first. Second hand instruments can usually be found reasonably cheaply too. I am happy to advise you on what to get.
How do I get started?
Send me an email and we can have a chat about what you'd like to learn and how I might be able to help!
I have dyslexia, ASD or ADHD, how can you help me?
I have tons of experience in helping people with neurodiversity learn to play. As a neurodiverse musician myself, I have found lots of ways to make common struggles such as reading music easier.
Do I have to read music?
My (probably controversial!) answer to this is no!!!
No you don't need to read music. People often think that note reading is the most important aspect of learning music, and that being a "proper" musician is based on how well you read music. As a dyslexic musician, I can tell you that this is rubbish! Whilst I love the written language of music, my preferred learning style is by ear. Being a musician is not about how well you can read a piece of paper - it's about the expression of emotion and ideas through sound. We don't need pieces of paper to do that! Being able to read music is a useful tool. But when it becomes a barrier and a source of frustration, then we need to use other tools.
Can I choose what I'd like to learn?
Yes!!! I am entirely student led. No two students are the same, and no two lessons are the same. I like to find out what your goals are, and help find the best route to get you there! If you are not sure what you'd like to learn, I'm always happy to offer suggestions.
Do I have to take exams?
No!!! Exams are totally optional! Rushing students through exam after exam is not the best way to develop an all round musical foundation. I usually let people know what grade level the pieces they are playing are, so they have a sense of the progress they're making, but actually taking exams is your decision. That said, if exams are something you would like to do, I'd be happy to help! Exams have changed a lot over recent years, with lots of new formats available - such as online and pre recorded exams - which make music exams so much more accessible.
Do I have to perform?
Again, this is totally up to you! Some people really enjoy working towards a performance, or playing in front of an audience - others can think of nothing worse! For those that enjoy the chance to perform, opportunities for live and pre recorded online performing are something I like to offer.
How much will I be expected to practice?
I have no expectations around practice, and there is no pressure in my studio ever!!! Obviously, the more you practice the better you will get and the faster you'll reach your goals. Knowing how to practice to make maximum progress is a skill in itself, that I make sure all my students learn. But sometimes life is just busy and there can be a lot of demands on your time. Just do what you can, and don't worry about it!