Frequently Asked Questions

Some of the most famous musicians in history never had a formal lesson.  What  interests me is your potential.  My question would be: how can I shape your talent; make your technique more efficient; and help you stand out from the crowd? Finally, we would decide which qualification would be the most appropriate for you or your intended course of study.

Many students start A level having previously completed a GCSE in the subject.  However, I have taught many students from around the world with no previous musical qualifications.  I will assess potential using these criteria: 

1) Performing is usually 30%-35% of most A level courses. How well could you do in the recital in the final months of the course?  You could be a singer, guitarist, cellist, in fact almost any instrument is acceptable, but it is important that you have the potential to perform at Grade 6 level and above in order to get a good grade.  I will ask you to submit a video of you performing to assess this.

2) Your English level.  Of course, this is not the most important part of Music, but it is another consideration when preparing students for essay writing and analysing music using technical language.

I have taught numerous GCSE students who have never had any musical background.  The biggest challenge you will find is performing on an instrument or with your voice.  It is quite possible in 18 months for a student to get to ABRSM/TRINITY grades 3, and therefore do well in the exam. If you are enthusiastic, and enjoy learning an instrument, I will accept you as a student.

This depends on the course. Usually for practical musical lessons you will be billed by the hour.  If you enrol on a course, then you would be billed half-termly in advance.  The fees would be inline with typical rates set in your country.