Marie

My musical journey began at the age of six, when I started playing the piano and singing. The works of Chopin, Debussy and Beethoven inspired me to pursue my passion for music composition. My favourite styles to write in are Film and Impressionism.

My original goal was to become a concert pianist. Instead, I stumbled into teaching whilst working as a teaching assistant in Cambridge. Whilst I was there, I absolutely fell in love with teaching! Seeing students that I had personally helped to blossom (both as musicians and individuals), brought me the greatest joy imaginable. As a result, I abandoned my goal of becoming a concert pianist and instead pursued a career in music teaching

Tutoring Experience

I have 20 years of music teaching experience. I attained a First BA Hons Music Degree from UEA, where upon I specialised in piano performance and composing.
A short while later, I became the Head of Music at Sancton Wood School, Cambridge. I taught pupils aged 4-16 and directed the music for school performances and theatrical productions.
I later acquired my. PGCE from the University of Cambridge and I enjoy inspiring my pupils along their own musical pathways to this day. The focus of my teaching is currently one-to-one piano lessons (online or in person).

Tutoring Approach

My approach to teaching involves a friendly relaxed environment, where students can be creative and express themselves freely as a musicians. As a result of this students flourish in their learning of the piano.

The majority of my students choose to follow the traditional route of learning to read music. However, other approaches such as learning to ‘play by ear’ and composing are also taught. These methods are tailored to the needs and desires of each individual.

My students are encouraged to play in a wide variety of styles and to explore their own musical identity. If they wish, students can be trained to perform in concerts, which often helps them to develop and grow as a musician.

Adult / Returning students

Marie enjoys teaching adults of all ages and abilities. She understands how differently adults learn to children and is determined to find the right teaching method to suit the individual.
From experience, Marie has seen that it takes a lot of courage for adult learners to return to piano lessons after having not played for a while, or even to start learning as a beginner. Therefore, Marie strives to builds up the confidence of the adult learner and enable piano playing to be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Examinations

As a performer herself, Marie understands the anxiety that students face as they prepare for their exams. Therefore, it’s important for Marie not only to make sure her students can play the repertoire well to secure a good mark on the day, but also to help them manage their performance anxiety and feel confident as they go into the exam.