Information About Joanna - Peterborough teacher

Personal Description:

I went to the Purcell School and trained in London and Moscow.My background as a professional performer includes touring North America as principal cellist with the Scottish Baroque Ensemble and a successful solo recital at the Wigmore Hall. I was the founder, artistic director and principal cellist of Peterborough String Orchestra which was reviewed in The Guardian as having “the sort of responsive precision you expect from a string quartet. The real emotional stuff of music making”.

I also started composing a few years ago and my first two cello and piano books - Folk and Beyond and Clan - are available for sale on the Kevin Mayhew website.

Tutoring Experience:

I love teaching and have taught cello at all levels for more than 40 years. I play the piano well, so I can accompany my pupils, and I was an ABRSM examiner for 24 years, so I know what is required for exams.

I also run a relaxed cello ensemble for cellists from around Grade 4 upwards. If you are interested in joining this rather than having lessons, please get in touch.

Tutoring Approach:

I encourage a feeling of energy and happiness when playing - so I approach every pupil individually.

I am keen to pioneer a link between folk and classical styles, and I can incorporate both in lessons. So while I can teach classical music at the highest level I am also happy to focus on improvisation, playing by ear and learning tunes and accompaniments without music.

Weekly lessons are not essential for progress if you are well motivated.