Information About Thomas - Oxford teacher -

(8 reviews)

Personal Description:

I am a private Piano tutor; however I now do most of my tutoring virtually via Zoom as I work internationally. In person lessons are available when I am in the UK. I enjoy teaching Piano, Music theory to a great mix of pupils from beginner to diploma level.

I was fascinated by the piano from an early age and was fortunate to work with very good teachers from the beginning of my studies through to degree level at Birmingham Conservatoire and subsequently continued to study privately with Professors from the Royal Academy of Music. After an interlude during which I studied Chemistry to Masters and subsequently doctorate level alongside my piano playing, I returned to teaching piano full time in Oxford.

I really enjoy the challenges piano teaching offers, and being able to share in my students' successes is always a very rewarding experience.

I really look forward to discussing how I can help with potential students from any background.

Tutoring Experience:

Having taught privately for over 15 years across all ages and abilities, I continue to enjoy the challenges and opportunities that instrumental teaching presents. I am happy to tailor my teaching to match the goals and ambitions of each student, whether that be preparing for music exams, auditions or festivals, or simply learning for enjoyment. My main focus is developing a strong technical foundation alongside a deep understanding and appreciation for how music is constructed and in turn how this affects our performance of it.

Tutoring Approach:

I like to ensure my pupils are equipped with all the necessary skills to be able to get the most out of playing a musical instrument, rather than just learning how to pass exams; this comes from challenging and developing their technical ability and musical confidence. Exam preparation is offered for those who wish to take them, however. I am particularly keen to try and encourage collaborative music making where appropriate as the piano can be a solitary instrument at times and beginner pianists miss out on the enjoyment of playing in an orchestra.

The covid pandemic facilitated learning how to deliver effective tuition virtually and as such I now offer all my lessons online only, although opportunities for face to face lessons and performance classes are available periodically.