Al Watson
About
I have almost 20 years of teaching experience of teaching young people and adults. I am comfortable teaching a range of different musical genres; from classical through to jazz and pop. I regularly coach students through ABRSM and Trinity Piano exams.
I enjoy watching the progress of my students as they develop and mature. Most go on to tertiary education.
I also sing as a Lay Clerk at Salisbury Cathedral Choir. This means I perform almost daily, in services and concerts.
I work as a music arranger for Music Sales and Hal Leonard publishers, transcribing/arranging music from contemporary classical, film, music theatre and pop.
I have authored educational books including Playing with Scales, a series of books providing accompaniments to help students practise their scales. My piano tutor book Teach Yourself Classical Piano, published by Hal Leonard is due to be released late in 2020.
What I / we help young people achieve
I enjoy watching the way music education can improve the confidence of young people. It helps their education and development in so many areas.
I regularly coach students through ABRSM and Trinity piano exams, and music theory exams.
I have accompanied many pupils for GCSE and A Level Recitals
I encourage collaboration - finding musical partners for students to work on duets/duos etc
I have helped many students achieve DofE awards
Opportunities for children & young people
- To learn to play an instrument and / or develop skills on an instrument
- To play, perform music with others
- To learn things about oneself , other subjects or life-skills through musical activity
- To work with and support other young musicians
- To develop their wellbeing
Also Works With
Lay Clerk in Salisbury Cathedral Choir
Music arranger for Music Sales and Hal Leonard
Times
- Term Time
- After School
- Weekends
Working with special needs
I have taught pupils who come from disadvantaged backgrounds. Music is a really helpful way for them to connect with the world and realise their potential.
Taught Instruments
- Singing / Voice
- Piano / Keyboard
- Music Theory
Ages Taught
- 11-13
- 14-15
- 16+
Level Taught
- Beginners
- Intermediate
- Advanced
Qualifications, Grades & Certificates Taught
- Instrument grades
- Duke of Edinburgh Award
Musical Clusters Covered
- Salisbury / Wilton
My Training & Development
I talk regularly with my colleagues about different styles of teaching, always seeking to improve my teaching methods.
I also maintain my own standard of performing, playing regularly in local concerts, including piano concertos.