An Individual Approach to Clarinet Tuition
Thank you for considering learning the clarinet with me! With professional performance experience in Paris, trained at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, over 10 years of learning, practicing and playing, and a passion for helping students of all ages and abilities unlock their musical potential. Whether you’re picking up the clarinet for the first time or looking to refine your artistry as an advanced player, I’m here to guide your journey with a balance of structure, creativity, and fun.
My Teaching Philosophy
At the heart of my teaching is a simple but powerful principle: music should be fun! I try to place a large focus on putting feeling and emotion into a performance, making practice enjoyable and all the while ensuring the technical foundations of the clarinet are not forgotten!
I draw on both the classical pedagogical methods I experienced when learning and more modern and flexible teaching strategies to tailor each lesson to you/your child’s learning style.
Every student is different!
So my role is to listen to your needs, adapt my approach, and help you flourish in your musical journey!
Core Pillars of My Approach
Enjoyment Through Repertoire
Whether it’s classical, jazz, folk, or film music, I will help students find pieces they want to play. Repertoire isn’t just necessary for learning, it’s the whole reason we play! Even if you are a total beginner, we will work together to find achievable goals where you can start playing the music you want to play!
Technique That Serves Expression
Good technique is of course essential, but I believe it’s most powerful when it can be moulded to suit musical expression. We’ll work on embouchure, fingerwork, tone, articulation, and breath support through exercises that connect to the music you love. For more advanced players, we will work further on phrasing, and interpretive decisions that elevate your playing to a level ready for the world to hear!
A Growth Mindset
I always do my best to create a safe, encouraging space where mistakes are part of the process. I help students set meaningful goals, reflect on their progress, and develop the tools to learn how to effectively practice while trying to make it as exciting as possible. (I know just how boring daily scales can get!)
Performance as Play
As someone who performs regularly, I always try not to see performance as a pressure filled, stressful environment, but instead, as an opportunity for growth and expression. Whether you’re preparing for a concert, exam, audition, or just want to share music with friends or family, my job is to help you feel confident, expressive, and proud of what you play.
Who I Teach
- Children and Teens: Fun, structured learning with tailored repertoire and focus on learning how to not only play, but how to practice is essential not only in musical endeavours, but in a broad range of studies.
- Adult Beginners: It’s never too late. I love working with adults who are discovering or returning to music. Lessons are paced gently with your goals and lifestyle in mind.
- Advanced Players and Musicians: If you’re preparing for Grade 8, university/conservatoire auditions, or simply looking to finesse your artistry, I offer high-level coaching informed by professional experience.
