Information About Michelle - Peckham teacher -

(11 reviews)

Personal Description:

***Schedule Full, but open for casual and trial lessons and operating a waitlist for series-based lessons***

Originally from California, Michelle moved to London to train at the Royal Academy of Music and at the Royal Northern College of Music. Her extensive studies at music conservatoire and international masterclasses gave her the opportunity to learn from world-renown cellists and pedagogues many of whom made their mark on how she plays and teaches. She plays as a freelancer with major UK orchestras including the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, the Philharmonia Orchestra, and has been on trial for positions with Royal Scottish National Orchestra, the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, and the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. She has also performed and toured in bands, recording sessions, and musical theatre. Her teaching draws on an extensive background of multi-disciplinary practices across the arts and health.

Tutoring Experience:

I have been teaching privately and in schools for 17 years. I run a cello programme from my home in Bermondsey.

Tutoring Approach:

My mission is to help students develop freedom in cello playing so that they have the means of making a lifetime of beautiful music with the cello.

I will teach you how to use your body in a way that ensures comfort, reliable intonation, good rhythm, resonant sound and an expressive use of the bow. I approach technique in an intuitive way, making comparisons to real experienced activities and guiding students to use their senses and powers of visualisation, supplemented by practical exercises. Alongside cultivating a healthy physical connection to the cello, I work with students to draw out emotional, imaginative responses to music and communicate them through their playing. Scales and music theory are brought to life for students to use them as the tools they are for music creation, and we play a wide range of enjoyable, level-appropriate repertoire to inspire progression and experience a diverse spectrum of music.

While pursuit of quality is always present and competitions and exams are to be taken by many students, being organised with goals ensures a balance so that our efforts do not overtake the enjoyment and creativity of playing. Whether it is the aim or not, I prepare students to be confident joining orchestras, summer courses, other performances and ABRSM exams, and use music how they wish.

All levels and ages are welcome. In the consultation lesson we will assess your level and needs, and make a plan that is constantly updated. I will always suggest the path forward but also happy to take your lead if you prefer so that you get what you want from your lessons. I am a sensitive, adaptable teacher and will keep communication flowing in working with you.

As 1 to 1 lessons are an essential part of learning the cello I am only able to take on students who make a regular commitment. The continuity of having regular lessons is vital while setting foundation, for learning how to practice, have continuing improvement, motivation, and developing a rapport between teacher and student.

Most lessons take place at my home as I like to have my cello at hand to play together and demonstrate easily. If you prefer, you are more than welcome to use my second instrument when having lessons at mine. If I am able to travel to you, it will be subject to an extra fee.

On establishing contact, I will send more information on the lessons, policies, and fees and feel free to ask any questions.

Do let me know your motivations for learning the cello or any musical background when you get in touch also.

I look forward to hearing from you.