Instrumental Tuition

I teach Clarinet, Saxophone, Flute and Piano both in schools (state and independent) in Edinburgh and the Lothians and from my own teaching practice which I run from my home in East Lothian and I am also the resident piano and woodwind tutor at Nightingales Music School.

I have a Diploma of Instrumental Teaching and a Certificate of Teaching (CT) from the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM). I have GTCS Membership (General Teaching Council of Scotland)

I have a full Disclosure Scotland / PVG / CRB check.

My pupils range in age from 6 to 60 - it's never too early or too late to start learning to play a musical instrument, or to rekindle any musical aspirations that may have fallen by the wayside over the years.

Lesson can include a variety of playing from written music, playing by ear or improvising, depending on what your aims or preferences are.

For those wishing to learn for fun, I can introduce you to a wide range of material, from simple solos to more contemporary music with backing tracks which allow you to create your own performance.

For those wishing to follow a formal approach, I can introduce you to a disciplined approach to developing technique through theory, studies and repertoire, leading to the possibility of sitting exams or playing in ensembles, bands or orchestras.

For younger players, there are small scale instruments which are great for starting out with :-

Clarineo / Lyons C Clarinet - This is a small, lightweight, robust version of the standard clarinet which uses a clarinet-type mouthpiece and reed and the standard clarinet fingering

AlphaSax - This is a standard size alto sax, but is lighter and more compact, so smaller hands can find their way to the keys.

Flute - A flute can be made more accessible by using a curved head-joint to bring the body of the flute closer and reduce the stretch required to reach the keys. Most manufacturers of flutes offer this option. Or for very young a Yamaha Fife is an excellent way to be introduced to the flute.

On-Line Lessons

Although face-to-face lessons are the best way to learn, I also give on-line lessons to make it easier to fit the tuition into your schedule and accommodate pupils who are not able to travel to me.

Theory

Instrumental lessons include some theory, but for those wishing to learn more, possibly aiming for (Associated Board) Theory Exams or for School Nat5 / Higher / Advanced Higher exams, I can provide intense tuition to supplement exam preparation or just to help you complete your musical knowledge.

Exams

All my pupils have the option to sit (Associated Board) exams, although this is by no means mandatory. I guide pupils through the repertoire and supplementary material required for the exams and will attend on the day to support them and to accompany them on piano if required. I have a 100% pass rate for the pupils I submit for exams, with a majority of these attaining Merit or Distinction.

Instrument Rental

I have a selection of instruments available for hire if you wish to explore learning to play before committing to the outlay of purchasing an instrument. I am also happy to offer any advice on purchasing instruments and accessories.

Gift Vouchers

Music lessons make the perfect present. I can provide you with a gift voucher for any number of lessons which can be taken at the recipients convenience, with no time limit.