About

I left Bath college in 2004 with a BTEC National Diploma in Popular Music. Prior to completing this course I had attained ABRSM instrumental qualifications for the cornet and a Grade 8 RGT Electric Guitar certificate. Instead of attending university I chose to employ the services of an experienced classical guitar tutor who helped me to achieve an LCM (London College of Music) Grade 8 certificate in this subject. Alongside gaining these instrumental qualifications I was beginning to teach guitar to children and adults from a local music shop. During this time I was also writing and performing with Patchway Theft an alternative rock band I had formed with other students from Bath college. I sang lead vocals, played guitar and wrote the songs for Patchway Theft some of which were played on BBC Radio 6 Music. Whilst writing and performing with Patchway Theft I also gained a lot of recording experience and worked with professional sound engineers at various studios including the famous Real World Studios in Box.Â

After establishing a good reputation as a reliable and responsible guitar tutor I began to gain interest from schools who were seeking local private guitar tutors who were willing to go into their schools to teach. I acquired teaching roles at a number of local primary and secondary schools helping the children to achieve both instrumental grades and a strong foundation in music theory.Â

In 2012 I was approached by a 1960’s tribute band called The Zoots who were at the time performing on Royal Caribbean cruise ships. They wanted me to fulfil the role of Lead Guitarist and Backing Vocalist and I saw this as a good opportunity to gain some additional professional performance experience as well as an exciting opportunity to travel the world. My time in the band consisted of playing in large theatres to packed audiences, performing at wedding parties and corporate events across the UK and being the resident band at a 5 star hotel in Eilat, Israel.

I continue to teach people both privately and in schools and really enjoy helping those I teach to fulfil their musical potential.

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What I / we help young people achieve

I help young people to establish a clear understanding of how their instrument functions and how it should be played. As soon as the young person can demonstrate the ability to sound clear fretted notes on their instrument I will teach them to play a simple melody. I aim to teach young people to perform the music or at least a version of the music they enjoy listening to as quickly as possible. In order to truly make progress as a young musician it is necessary to practice. I seek what inspires the individual to pick up their instrument and want to play and practice music. If that means having to deviate from a structured syllabus or book, I have the ability to clearly transcribe pop songs/movie themes/computer game music etc and see this as a good source of inspiration.

I can also help individuals or small groups who are keen to perform either as soloists or part of an ensemble to be ready for an assembly performance or end of term concert. This challenge can provide good motivation to learn and play to a higher standard and also increase the child's confidence and self esteem.

If learners show a keen interest in achieving grades and completing syllabuses I can help them to achieve up to grade 8 standard in Electric, Acoustic, Classical and Bass guitar. I will show them the various syllabuses and together we will make a decision as to which one best suits their personal ambition and interest. I have helped many young people achieve grade certificates and have a 100% pass rate up to and including grade 8.

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Opportunities for children & young people

• To learn to play an instrument and / or develop skills on an instrument
• To learn to sing
• To create / write music and / or lyrics
• To develop recording /production skills
• To play, perform music with others
• To work with and support other young musicians
• To develop their wellbeing

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Times

• Term Time
• After School
• Weekends
• School Holidays
• Drop in

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Working with special needs

Over the years I have gained experience teaching both adults and children with learning difficulties and other disabilities including individuals with Down’s Syndrome, Asperger Syndrome and Autism. I have a sister with Down’s Syndrome and I am aware of the challenges that people with special needs face. Every person is different so lessons need to be tailored to meet their individual requirements to enable them to understand, enjoy and achieve their learning potential.

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