Frequently Asked Questions
New students always ask lots of questions — here are the most common ones I receive.
How often and how long are lessons?
I generally recommend once a week. If you’re highly motivated with lots of practice time, twice a week can work well. For adults I recommend 1 hour; for younger children (ages 5–6) it’s good to start with 30–45 minutes.
When do lessons take place?
I teach on a flexible basis between 9am and 9pm, Monday to Saturday. I’m more flexible during the day when younger students are at school, but after-school slots are also available.
Where do lessons take place?
I mostly teach at my studio on Old Brompton Road, near Earls Court Tube station.
What ages and levels do you teach?
All ages and levels. My youngest students are 4 years old. I’m happy to work with complete beginners through to advanced students.
How many lessons do I need to commit to?
For a regular weekly slot I recommend committing to at least five lessons. If you need to stop, please give at least one month’s notice so I can offer your slot to someone else. All lessons are subject to a 24-hour cancellation policy — cancellations with less than 24 hours notice will be charged in full.
Do I need my own piano?
It’s important to be able to practise between lessons. If you don’t have access to a piano, I’d recommend buying an instrument. If you’re unsure, start with a keyboard — make sure it has at least 5 octaves and weighted keys. A good piano is a lifetime purchase. I’m happy to advise and have contacts in the industry for buying or renting. See the resources page for details.
How do I know if my child is ready?
If your child knows the alphabet, can count to 10, and can concentrate for at least 15 minutes — we’re ready to start!
What subjects do you teach?
Piano, practical musicianship, music theory, chamber music, harpsichord, GCSE Music, A-Level Music, and the basics of classical singing.
What exams do you prepare students for?
Piano Grades 1–8 (ABRSM and Trinity), DipABRSM, Music Theory Grades 1–8, GCSE Music, and A-Level Music. Exams are not a requirement — but if you like having a goal or want certified evidence of your progress, they’re well worth considering.
Do you have a DBS certificate?
Yes. Please get in touch if you’d like to see the document.
What are your qualifications?
I graduated from the Royal College of Music under Professor Gordon Fergus-Thompson (piano) and Professor Jane Chapman (harpsichord), and hold Master of Music and Master of Performance degrees from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. In 2016 I obtained my LRSM Diploma in Instrumental Teaching from the ABRSM.
I have won several prizes in international competitions and performed at venues including the Royal Albert Hall, St Martin-in-the-Fields, Victoria and Albert Museum, Milton Court, Huddersfield Town Hall, and the Embassy of the Republic of Poland, among others. See my biography for full details.
What kind of music will we work on?
Both classical and popular repertoire. Beginners usually start with nursery rhymes to get familiar with the keyboard and basic harmony. After a few lessons I’m happy to arrange popular tunes to match your level. More advanced students are welcome to bring any repertoire they like — I enjoy music across all styles and genres.
Still have questions?
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