FAQs
Do you provide lessons during school holidays?
Yes, I offer lessons on some days throughout school holidays. These are bookable through the Student Portal section of my website. You will be given access to this when you sign up for lessons.
Do you provide lessons on weekends and bank holidays?
No, I don’t offer any lessons at weekends or on Bank Holidays.
What ages do you teach?
I start teaching children from the age of 4 right through to mature students.
Do you teach singing?
I love to sing! Although I don't offer singing lessons, I do include singing as part of lessons, particularly for young beginners. Singing is such an important part of learning to play the piano and for any learner to develop greater understanding of skills and concepts and to become an all-round musician. If you are an adult and wish to sing along with playing the piano, I would be very happy to support you with this.
Do you teach music theory?
Yes; learning music theory is important, particularly if you choose to take the graded practical exams. I teach music theory as part of the lesson.
Do you offer theory exams?
Currently, although I teach the theory, I don't enter students for theory exams. However, students are able to take exam Grades 1-5 online now and can enter themselves. You can find more information about online theory exams on the ABRSM website. For more general information about ABRSM Music Theory, click here.
Can I work towards a piano exam?
When the time is right, yes. I will only enter you for an examination if it is appropriate for you and when I feel you are ready. Exams are only one part of the learning process. I teach the MTB (Music Teachers' Board) syllabus. You can view the syllabus here.
Do I have to take exams?
No, you can absolutely learn for pleasure. The choice is yours and I will support you on your journey to achieve your goals.
How much do the exams cost?
The prices vary depending on which exam grade is taken. You can find out the cost of your exam here.
When taking an exam, is there reasonable adjustment and special consideration for students with disabilities and/or specific learning differences?
Yes. You can find more detailed information for candidates here.
When taking an exam, is proof of ID required and what types of ID are accepted by MTB?
Yes. Due to regulatory requirements, MTB have to identify each candidate to verify that the entered student is actually the person taking the exam. Your ID should have a photo, full name and date of birth is clearly visible on the document.
Accepted documents are:
- Driver’s license
- Passport or national identity card
How long will my lesson be?
I offer weekly 30 minute, 45 minute or 60 minute lessons.
Do I need my own piano for lessons?
If you want to progress in playing the piano, then you really do need to have your own piano, or be looking to buy one in the near future. You will need to practise what you have been taught during your piano lesson.
Should I buy a digital or acoustic piano?
The piano comes in many different guises and a few choices are upright pianos, grand pianos, and the very popular now is the electric/digital piano. It doesn’t matter what type of piano you have, you play them all exactly the same way. It is purely a matter of personal choice as to which type of piano you would prefer; each has its own merits. However, I would recommend a piano with a full size keyboard (88 keys) and weighted keys. If you can, I would suggest trying some out.
How much do you charge?
Please refer to my ‘tuition fees’ page.
How much practice is necessary?
This depends on the level and age of each student, and how fast they want to progress. The most important thing is that practise happen most days if possible. A guide to how long each practise session should be, is show below:
Very young students and beginners (Pre-Grade 1): 10-20 minutes a day
Grade 1- Grade 3: 20-30 minutes a day
Grade 3 - Grade 5: 30-45 minutes a day
Grade 5 - Grade 8+: 45-60 minutes a day
Another handy guideline is that students should practise for three times their age. So a 5 year old would practise for 15 minutes and a 10 year old would practise for 30 minutes a day.
What books do I need and where do I get them from?
I will guide you through the different books you will need but you can purchase them from well-known retailers such as Musicroom, Amazon etc. Cheaper books are available from eBay, World of Books (WOB). I use a variety of different books and methods to suit the student and different learning styles.
Do your students get opportunities to perform?
Children will have the opportunity to perform in the annual recital. Last year, this was held in The State Chamber at Southwell Minster.
How can I pay for the tuition?
I send out invoices by email at the beginning of each academic year. A monthly standing order/bank transfer should be arranged for the first of every month, with the first payment taking place before the first lesson. This gives you the benefit of paying a standard fee each month.
What is your Cancellation Policy?
Please refer to my 'Cancellation Policy' page.
Information last updated January 2025.