I teach using the well regarded and internationally famous “Russian” method, made popular in the USSR in the 1930s and 1940s and which has given the world some of its greatest performers. This method places emphasis from lesson one on freedom and relaxation. Far too many approaches to learning the piano force students to endlessly repeat and drill patterns and exercises. This is, in my view, counter-productive as it destroys fun and introduces boredom and stiffness. Using my method, a child beginner can expect to arrive home at the end of their first lesson with a simple piece ready for performance and of course morale-boosting parental applause! Lessons in the early months focus on simple pieces, often of folk origin, that really develop piano skills, both technical and musical. These are often accompanied by me with a second, more complex piano part, giving the student the impression they are already performing music of some complexity. These accompaniments can be recorded on a parent’s phone for home performance as well.

 

I have taught over 50 students aged 16-18 to achieve their post grade 8 diploma with one of the Royal Schools, though a particular passion is working with young beginners. All lessons are given on a first-class Steinway B grand piano.