Amelia

I began studying the violin at the age of 9 with Professor Richard Crabtree (Royal Welsh Conservatoire). I made my way through the grades, as well as 2 diplomas, gaining distinctions. I joined the National Children’s Orchestra at 12, and the National Youth Orchestra at 14, gaining a place on a London Symphony Orchestra string workshop that same year. I performed with these orchestras at the Royal Albert Hall for BBC Proms, and at venues such as the Royal Festival Hall, conducted by Ed Gardner, Vasily Patrenko, and John Wilson. I partook in various courses and competitions, performing across Europe in Venice and France, and won the Bristol Rotary Competition in 2017.

I then went on to further my studies at Goldsmiths College, London, expanding my musicianship into more avant-garde, experimental music, playing at the likes of Cafe Oto with KlammerKlang. I have plenty of ensemble experience, having been part of a string quartet for many years, as well as jazz ensembles, bands, and have also performed solos with various orchestras, such as Bristol Ensemble and Bristol Sinfonia.

Currently, I am enjoying composing a film score with my partner John Bence, whilst playing with the post-punk band 'Foot Foot' in Bristol, recently having performed at venues such as Rough Trade and the Windmill Brixton, as well as teaching, doing session work and curating events and concerts.

Tutoring Experience

I have taken on various pupils previously in London and Bristol, from ages 8 to 40, and am happy to take on anyone at any stage of their exploration! I have studied under Richard Crabtree (Royal Welsh) and Mira Benjamin (Goldsmiths) as well as had masterclasses with Chloë Hanslip and Alexander Markov, so I have plenty of experience to pass on! I have lead rehearsals and workshops for many years. I am happy to take on beginners, or more experienced violinists looking to further their studies, or branch into something new!

I have a wide range of experience; from orchestras ( NCO, NYO, LSO string ensemble) , to post punk bands, folk bands, jazz groups, workshops, masterclasses, session work, improvisation, theatre, performing solos with an orchestra - meaning that my approach is hollistic and informed in all areas!

Tutoring Approach

I am as comfortable taking you through the grade system, as I am helping you to arrange your favourite songs! I am open to any and all styles and approaches - whether its studies, techniques, improvising, playing in a band, composing, arranging, working with electronics - I am happy to take your lead in terms of which skills you are interested in developing, and what style of violin you feel drawn to! I can also help you find your niche!
It is important we find a way for the violin to work for you - there are plenty of different ways to approach violin technique and posture!

FIRST LESSON
In your first lesson with me, we will discuss your goals and aspiritations with your musicianship - what you are most drawn to, your previous experience, and make a plan! I always ensure that we get to playing even in the very first session, whether you are a beginner or not! So I will talk you through the instrument if you area a beginner, or, take a look at your posture if you are more experienced, and play something together.
Ensemble work is a big part of my musicianship, and was important in my violin lessons growing up - my teacher would always be willing to play alongside me, and would accompany me during the practice which was vital for my learning!

LOCATION
I am happy for you to come to my music studio at home - I am also willing to travel to you (up to 10 miles form Glastonbury), as well as teach lessons over Zoom/Skype!