faq

What ages do you teach?

I teach from age 6yrs upwards. There’s no upper age limit!

How much practice do I need to do?

Whether you’re learning piano or flute 10 minutes a day works wonders; it’s the every day bit that’s important.

Do I need a piano?

If you wish to learn to play the piano you will need to do regular practice so it’s essential that you have access to a piano or to a keyboard with full size keys. Access to an instrument that’s capable of producing harmonies – piano, keyboard or guitar – is essential if you wish to pursue theory or composition. You’ll need your own flute if you want to learn the flute.

Am I too old to learn?

Some of my most able and enthusiastic pupils are ‘older’. In my teaching experience I have never found age to be a barrier to achieving a high standard in any musical area. I have taught people well into their 80s who’ve made fantastic progress.

Do I have to sit exams?

No. Although the grade exams are often an impetus to achieving a rigorously high standard of performance, I have many pupils who are simply learning for pleasure or for other reasons.

What styles of music do you teach?

All styles requested apart from improvised jazz.

Do I have to learn theory?

In order to progress beyond Grade 5 on any instrument the ABRSM requires that you pass Grade 5 theory (although appropriate substitutions will be considered by the ABRSM on request). You do not need to pass a Grade 5 theory if you’re doing  Trinity grades. If your aim is not to take exams or to sit any exams higher than Grade 5 with the ABRSM it is not necessary to study theory. Theory, however, is a valuable and interesting subject in itself and also adds to your understanding of music and your roundedness as a musician. The insight that study of theory gives into the construction of music is invaluable if you are serious about learning to play an instrument or learning to compose.

How long are lessons?

Most pupils have 30 minute lessons and I would certainly not recommend any longer than this for young children. 45 minute lessons are ideal for pupils who are more advanced and tackling longer pieces. Advanced pupils – those who are working towards Grade 8 or higher, or who are at an equivalent level – usually take hour long lessons.

How often does my piano need to be tuned?

Your piano should be tuned twice a year. There are some reputable piano tuners in the Darlington area. I use Mr Simon Topping who is based in Richmond, N Yorks, and who can be contacted by phone on 07947 733625

Where can I buy my music?

J G Windows in Newcastle stock a wide range of instruments, sheet music and theory books. Greensleeves music store in Northallerton is very good. And there’s Amazon.