Information About Bradon - Bristol teacher -

(6 reviews)

Personal Description:

LEARN TO PLAY THE FIDDLE!

I have been playing the violin for nearly 30 years, and growing up in a folk music family, I have played folk fiddle in the English, Irish and Scottish styles for just as long.

I am a classically trained violinist, but I now specialise in teaching folk fiddle. I am a well known player on the Irish session scene in London, Bristol and Bath; I run regular Irish sessions in Bristol. I have spent time playing in Scotland, around Ireland and further afield. I have played with a number of Ceilidh bands over the years, including in Bristol and Bath.

I am available to teach both in-person in Bristol, and online (see details below).

ONLINE LESSONS
During lockdown I am also available to teach via video call. Since the beginning of 2020, I have been giving lessons online. During the periods of lockdown during 2020 and 2021, all my lessons have moved online, and all of my students have found this to be a very effective way of continuing to learn.

I use two cameras: a wide shot to show students aspects of posture or bowing technique and for general conversation; and a second close-up camera over the fingerboard to show details of fingering. You won't miss a thing!

I use a professional level sound setup - an electric pickup on the violin, along with a a separate microphone for my voice, combined with a high speed internet connection -- the sound quality is excellent.

Tutoring Experience:

I am an experienced teacher - not just of music - and hold an internationally recognised fellowship from the Higher Education Academy in recognition of my teaching. I have a PhD from the University of Cambridge, and have taught at the universities of Cambridge, Edinburgh, Bath and Bristol.

"Bradon’s knowledge and enthusiasm for the fiddle really comes across in his lessons. Lessons are well prepared and the music is challenging but accessible to my level. He is an excellent teacher; his explanations are clear and he is supportive when pointing out mistakes or suggesting improvements. His teaching style is friendly and approachable. I look forward to my lessons and highly recommended Bradon as a tutor" -- Graham

"I have been extremely pleased with my experience having fiddle lessons with Bradon! He is skilled, professional and easy to work with. I enjoy and look forward to my lessons." -- Rosie

"Instantly made me feel at ease and I learnt so much in my first lesson" -- Scott

Tutoring Approach:

Whether you are a complete beginner, or already an advanced player, I can help you improve your technique, teach you about the subtleties of phrasing and ornamentation in fiddle playing, and build your repetoire of tunes. I can teach both orally, but can also teach you to read music if you wish.

I create a relaxed environment for learning, looking to build confidence and help my students to understand the 'feel' of traditional music that is so important to playing the fiddle.

If you don't have a violin yet - don't worry! I have instruments that my students can use, and which are also available for hire/purchase.