About Lisa

I have taught piano exclusively for over twenty years.

Before that, I had a successful career in arts management for various music organisations in Oxford, before returning to Wales to work for the BBC National Orchestra of Wales.

I discovered my passion for teaching unexpectedly, and that discovery inspired me to retrain and dedicate my career to music education.

Lisa Jewel, piano teacher in Abergavenny
Lisa

My story

My musical journey officially began, like that of many of my pupils, at the age of seven with a local piano teacher. However, my love of music started much earlier, inspired by attending my father's male choir concerts. I was fascinated by the piano from an early age and, once my parents bought our family piano, I was hooked from the very first note.

Like many young musicians in Wales, my earliest performances and competitions took place at local Eisteddfodau and music festivals. Whilst I loved performing, I was equally drawn to the wider world of the arts, which led me to pursue a career in arts and event management.

I completed a BA (Hons) in Music at Oxford Brookes, specialising in music history and contemporary music, and remained in Oxford to work with a number of arts organisations. During this time, I had the privilege of meeting and working with many inspiring musicians, including the celebrated pianist Alfred Brendel.

Returning to Wales to work for the BBC National Orchestra of Wales rekindled my passion for the piano and inspired me to resume lessons myself. I was fortunate to study with the then Head of Keyboard at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, an experience that ultimately led me towards piano teaching as a profession.

In 2006, I left the arts management world to establish myself as a full-time piano teacher in Cardiff.

Alongside teaching, I continue to enjoy performing as a church pianist and playing for weddings, ceremonies and charitable events.

A few things worth knowing

  • Over 20 years teaching experience
  • BA (Hons) in Music
  • Member of the Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM)
  • Member of the Roskell Academy
  • DBS checked
  • Fully insured
  • Committed to ongoing professional development (CPD)

Questions people often ask

I have never played a note. Can I still start?

Absolutely. Many of my pupils begin with no experience at all. We start gently, at your pace, and build strong foundations from there.

Am I too old to learn?

Not at all. I teach adults of every age, including complete beginners. It is genuinely never too late to start playing.

Do you teach adults as well as children?

Yes, both are very welcome. I currently have some spaces during the week for home-ed children and for adults, and Saturday mornings are available too. A waiting list is open for after-school lessons.

What style of music do you teach?

Lessons are grounded in classical training and musicianship, but pupils are encouraged to explore a wide range of musical styles and repertoire.

Do I have to take exams?

No. Exams are entirely optional. Some pupils enjoy working towards them, others simply play for the love of it. Both are equally welcome here.

How long are lessons, and how often?

Lessons are one-to-one and usually weekly during term time. We can talk through the length that suits you or your child when you get in touch.

Do I need my own piano?

Yes. You will need a real piano (some types of electronic keyboard can work too) to practise on between lessons, as steady practice is where real progress is made. If you are just starting out, I am happy to advise on what to look for.

How does payment work?

For children, fees are spread evenly across the year and paid in twelve equal monthly payments, so the cost stays the same each month, school holidays included, with no large one-off bills. Adult lessons are more flexible, arranged and paid week by week.

Still wondering about something? Ask me, no question is too small.