Information About Nicholas - Manchester teacher -

(7 reviews)

Personal Description:

I'm a professional composer, arranger, performer and bandleader active in the Manchester area, with a PhD from Newcastle University. I've played thousands of performances across the UK, from the south bank of the Thames to the Dundee blues festival, including appearances on national radio, at music festivals, award-winning productions at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and have been nominated on electric bass and electric guitar respectively for Best Soloist at Great North Big Band Competitions.

I have played in a variety of styles from jazz, funk, blues, soul, Scottish folk and world music, to rock and pop, to experimental and electronic music, hip-hop and drum and bass. I'm fluent on guitar and bass in a variety of styles, techniques and effects.

When I'm not playing and teaching music, I also work freelance in the tech industry, primarily developing mathematical models of consumer behaviour for the financial services industry.

Tutoring Experience:

I started teaching guitar 17 years ago, and have been actively teaching guitar and bass essentially ever since, and working off-and-on with community groups, mentoring and developing young performers and vulnerable adults and working as a private tutor, both of theory and performance.

I've also worked in academia and taught a variety of subjects at the undergraduate and graduate level. I've also provided academic support to vulnerable and struggling students through outreach programmes.

Tutoring Approach:

Technique is an important part of any student's development, but my approach differs from that of most teachers in that I emphasise the student's internal musicality and personality from the moment an instrument is in their hands. Contrary to many online courses and other tutors, I don't focus on technique and speed-building as an end unto itself, but I encourage the student to focus on fluency and the brain-body connection, and look at how to develop fluency in a safe manner, that will encourage the student to take charge of their own development outside of my relationship with them. Most of the student's development happens when I'm not watching, and I usually shy away from high frequency teaching except where this is important for motivation.

With this approach, anyone can sound good and feel good about playing, essentially from the moment they instrument is in their hands. Practice will be a comfortable, fun, organic process, and you'll be ready for the stage in no time!

I usually teach from my home, but may travel on occasion. Please do ask.