MY APPROACH

Over the years I’ve seen how early, rigid grading and pressure can take the joy out of music for children. Music should never feel like a chore or a race — it should feel alive, expressive, playful and full of possibility. Too often, lessons become so focused on exams that they squeeze out the creativity and confidence that make music meaningful in the first place.

My approach is different. I help children fall in love with music first, building a sense of fun, rhythm, curiosity and confidence long before auditions or assessments come into view. When young musicians enjoy what they’re learning, everything else — skill, technique, expression, even exam readiness — grows naturally.

I understand how important music can be for gaining a place at the school of your choice, including Southwell Minster and other selective schools. You can work with me well before audition time to explore music freely and build the foundations that make those later assessments feel exciting rather than overwhelming.

I also collaborate with other music teachers, supporting children alongside their existing lessons. Many students come to me specifically for confidence coaching, public speaking skills, performance mindset, and the small but important things like introducing themselves and their piece with clarity and calm. We explore aural listening, rhythm work and performance pieces in fun, engaging ways that help children understand and enjoy what they’re doing.

Ultimately, my goal is to help young people be their best — not just to get into the school they want, but to feel confident, expressive and proud of who they are as musicians. I want them to see music as a lifelong journey, not a box to tick, and to carry that joy with them wherever they go.