Cello
Young Children
At this age, young cellists start reading music, developing proper posture, and learning finger placement for notes. Lessons incorporate basic rhythm and ear training through singing along with cello playing. I introduce scales, simple melodies, and reading music on the staff. For those in school groups, I work on beginner ensemble skills.
Lessons are designed to be interactive and engaging, using musical games to maintain interest and build confidence. Simple pieces are introduced early on so students can experience quick successes, which helps them develop positive practice habits and strategies.
Older Children
Older students focus on mastering more complex techniques such as vibrato, shifting, and performing longer, expressive pieces from a variety of musical genres. For those preparing for exams or performances, we emphasise both technical proficiency and musical expression.
Lessons balance technique building with creative exploration. Advanced students are encouraged to work on scales and arpeggios, bowing techniques, and music theory related directly to their pieces. This approach helps them prepare for auditions or exams while also inspiring them to explore music they love and expand their repertoire.
Adults
Whether you're a beginner or returning to the cello after a long break, lessons are designed to be performance-oriented, ensuring that you can play the music you love without spending excessive time on technical drills. We focus on getting you to play recognizable tunes early on, while integrating technique naturally as part of the music.
Lessons prioritise playing and are tailored to your personal goals, whether that means learning a specific piece, refining your tone and posture for better performance, or working on enjoyable repertoire in your favourite styles or genres. We'll work on quickly building your ability to play pieces you enjoy, refining tone and posture in a way that enhances your sound, and integrating practical, healthy techniques to support your progress. This approach ensures that you can play comfortably and confidently without feeling overwhelmed by complex exercises.