Information About Simon - Haringey teacher

Personal Description:

Hello! I am a 22 year old oboist, recent Cambridge graduate and current law student with a passion for helping others learn and develop musically.

I am an experienced instrumentalist with a wide range of performance experience in high level ensembles and solo contexts. I attended the Royal Northern College of Music Junior Department (2015-2016) studying with David Cowdie, during which time I played in the National Youth Orchestra under Nicolas Colon, Kristian Järvi and Edward Gardner. I subsequently studied at the Royal Academy of Music with Celia Nicklin as part of the CAMRAM scheme (2017-2019).

I received first class marks in my undergraduate recital examinations, and was a University Instrumental Award Holder, as part of which I received professional coaching with a chamber ensemble. I have undertaken some freelance work in the Greater Manchester area.

As a conductor I have conducted Cambridge University Symphony Orchestra during the 2018-19 year and I was the Musical Director of the recent production of Princess Ida at the Minack Theatre, Cornwall.

Academically, I hold both a BA and MPhil in Music from the University of Cambridge, graduating with Double First Class Honours with Distinction.

In my spare time I love playing cricket, running and cycling, as well as experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen and watching Masterchef!

Tutoring Experience:

I have experience teaching group oboe classes for school-age groups, demonstrating the oboe as an instrument and giving initial lessons to beginner players. As part of my time in the National Youth Orchestra, I also helped lead performance classes for more advanced and developing players.

I have frequently led group rehearsals and sectionals, and as a conductor have experience helping instrumentalists to develop individually and in group settings. I have taken music workshops with international Summer School students, focusing on singing and general musicianship.

Tutoring Approach:

I look to develop a good relationship with students, knowing first-hand how important a positive connection with a teacher can be to a learning environment. I am a very patient teacher, and seek to ensure that students are comfortable with techniques and repertoire, finding alternative ways to explain and demonstrate ideas where necessary.

I would seek to ensure that lessons combine a good grounding in fundamental technique with sufficient focus on the enjoyment of playing. I believe I can bring a rigorous academic understanding of music with technical ability and a passion for the oboe and its repertoire, and share that with my students.