Information About Sophie - Greenwich teacher

Personal Description:

I wanted to learn to play the cello when I was 7 years old, after listening to Saint-Saen's 'the Swan' being performed at a local concert. Shortly after, I began to have cello lessons, and absolutely loved it!

I have been lucky to study with fantastic teachers during my education, most recently with Tim Lowe, a Guildhall School professor. I attend the International Cello Gathering courses each year, and I graduated with a first in music, specialising in performance, from Durham University in 2020.

I am friendly and approachable, fully DBS checked, and have extensive training in safeguarding.

Tutoring Experience:

After graduating from Durham, I spent three years working in two of the UK's specialist music schools; the Purcell School and Wells Cathedral School. Working here gave me extensive experience teaching 1-1, and in small groups and ensembles. I also learnt a lot about pastoral care and wellbeing in children.

I now teach the cello in primary schools for the ground-breaking charity, Music Masters, and I recently completed a PGCE in group instrumental teaching. I also teach for Merton Music Foundation, teaching at secondary level. I also have some adult learners within my private student class.

I recently completed my PGCE in group instrumental teaching through Birmingham City University.

I live in Greenwich, London, normally travelling to teach at my pupil's houses, or teaching from my home or online.

Tutoring Approach:

I plan my lessons to be fast-paced, engaging, but also establish good routines. I want all of my pupils to feel supported and inspired, and I adapt my approach to each pupil, depending on their needs and goals.

Studying a PGCE over the last year has highlighted to me the importance of giving children choices and opportunities for them to lead and take ownership of their learning.

I am knowledgeable about teaching cello technique, an my aim is to provide my pupils with an excellent technical foundation, which they can use to help them express their musicality and ideas in the pieces they enjoy playing.

For teaching beginners, I use a variety of methods such as Kodaly and Dalcroze, with an emphasis on teaching aurally and developing their musicianship skills, as well as reading music notation.