81 Park Ave, Ashfield NSW, Australia
Piano Lessons | Keyboard Lessons | Theory Lessons, Composition Lessons, Jazz Improvisation Lessons, Online Lessons
Bio
I have been teaching privately and been an active performer for over 40 years, and in that time taught all styles to people of all ages, and have helped a number of students prepare for their HSC exams as well as gaining entry to the Sydney Conservatorium of Music’s jazz course. I have also worked extensively in the tertiary sector, and was an academic lecturer at the Australian Institute of Music for 21 years, teaching jazz and classical theory, aural classes, performance units, keyboard skills, songwriting and composition, running contemporary and jazz ensembles, as well as supervising Masters degree students. Early on in my teaching career I learned that the most important thing is to establish a good relationship with the student, irrespective of their skill level or aptitude, as this is crucial in gaining their trust and to therefore have the best possible chance of making the learning experience not only successful, but also enjoyable.
Teaching Info
I do not have a strict method, instead preferring to tailor the lesson to suit the student and their goals. The usual course of events is that we discuss a plan once I’ve talked to them to find out where they want to go, and make sure they’re happy with that. Depending on the personality of the student, I will be flexible regarding the level of discipline that I expect from each one, but tend towards a relatively strict adherence to our agreed plan, at least in the short term. I am a great believer in the fruits of consistent effort, and have been passionate about it in my own development throughout my career. I’m also passionate about effective practice, as time is our most precious asset. The work usually involves the obvious technical rudiments, and repertoire (a priority – why else to we play music?), and perhaps sight reading or perhaps theory, all of course dependant on the student’s needs.