My Musical journey

I am delighted to be joining the Music Department; especially as I studied for a BA Hons in Music and English at St Marys’ College, Strawberry Hill just across the road! I am sure I will enjoy many happy years teaching here.

Having gained a BA Hons in Music and English with Singing as my main instrument , I then gained a scholarship to The Royal College of Music to study on the one year Post Graduate Course in Singing and then on the two year Opera Course. I have over twenty-five years’ experience as a singing teacher and as a professional singer in concerts, opera and musical theatre; I now, mainly, devote my time to teaching.

My thoughts on teaching

I have been singing all my life and can truly say it is a lifelong passion; throughout my years of teaching, I have striven to pass on that passion to my pupils as well as developing their voice and musicianship. I reflect on my teaching and have learnt to tailor my teaching to the individual pupil. I have always striven to nurture, inspire and motivate my students with kindness, a good sense of humour and energy !I place a great deal of emphasis and importance on building up a good, positive, trusting relationship with my pupils and I endeavour to ensure that they are relaxed and happy and look forward to their singing lessons.

I have always enjoyed singing a wide repertoire of songs including folk songs, musical theatre, pop and classical and ensure my pupils have the opportunity to explore these too. I have high expectations of my pupils and want them to feel that they are progressing. Many of my pupils have either taken grade exams and achieved good results, or have achieved grade levels. I am mindful that some students don’t want to take exams but just want to sing a variety of songs. The ABRSM Singing and Musical Theatre syllabuses provide a wonderful choice and range of repertoire, so I can select songs from a particular Grade, and they know they are working at that level. I also develop sight- singing and aural awareness and I include music theory.

It is important that children understand music is a shared experience, so I have always encouraged them to perform in informal and formal concerts and to join school choirs. I am continuously amazed at how this allows the confidence of even the shyest children to grow and how their ability to perform improves and their enjoyment of sharing their performances.

Fees: £27.50