Information About Siobhan - Thornton Heath teacher

Personal Description:

I've just graduated with a BA in Actor-Musicianship from the Guildford School of Acting, attached to the University of Surrey. I have been playing the flute since I was 9 and have mostly taught myself clarinet and saxophone since starting my course at University. I achieved a merit in Grade 7 on flute and play clarinet and saxophone to a professional standard- I played them both in several of my third-year productions ( which is why I have no official grades in clarinet and saxophone as I just learnt them alongside my degree). I have LAMDA Acting grade 8 (distinction) and Musical Theatre Grade 7 (Distinction). I also received an A in my GCSE music and D*D*D in my BTEC in Performing Arts.

Tutoring Experience:

I am eager to gain more experience teaching as my original plan to start whilst studying at Uni was postponed due to COVID. I have given advice and tips to several people in my year who were also woodwind players, as well as the odd small lesson for fun to those who had never played the flute before. I have experience working with children as I have chaperoned for my local youth theatre company and have experience babysitting. I also have a valid enhanced DBS check.

Tutoring Approach:

I focus on the individual in choosing goals they'd like to achieve and the approach to learning. The main takeaway should be enjoying music and making it feel approachable. Mistakes are one of the most important things to happen, and my lessons will be a safe space for any questions or concerns. Growing up around musicians who were better technically than me at a younger age sometimes made me feel that playing an instrument wasn't worth doing, but I want to encourage everyone to enjoy music for them and take a load of the perfectionism pressure off after all music is a method of storytelling and I think that can sometimes be lost. I'm also dyslexic, so I understand the need to adjust the lessons to each individual and will work with everyone to find what works best for them. My motto is to be kind and honest, which will carry into my teaching.