Lessons

My teaching philosophy

I believe that the most successful piano lessons are built on a strong relationship between teacher and pupil. Every student learns differently, and my teaching is always pupil-led, adapting to individual personalities, interests and learning styles.

Lisa and a pupil playing a duet side by side at the piano

Lessons should be enjoyable, engaging and motivating. When pupils are having fun and feel encouraged, they develop confidence, curiosity and a genuine love of music that lasts far beyond their lessons.

Alongside enjoyment, I place great importance on excellence from the very beginning. I believe that strong foundations in technique, posture, rhythm and musicianship allow students to progress with confidence and freedom as they develop.

I have spent many years refining my approach to teaching beginners, as I believe the earliest stages of learning are among the most important in a musician's development. The habits, skills and understanding established in those first lessons provide the foundations on which all future progress is built.

My aim is to nurture well-rounded musicians who not only learn to play the piano, but also develop creativity, listening skills, musical understanding and an appreciation of the wider world of music.

Classical foundations
Technique, reading, listening, and musicality, built up patiently so playing feels natural rather than forced.
Beginners to advanced
A first-ever lesson and a Grade 8 lesson are equally at home here. We start wherever you are.
Children and adults
Younger pupils, teenagers, and grown-ups returning to the piano or starting fresh. Each lesson is shaped around the person.
One-to-one, at home
Never a group or a classroom. Just focused, unhurried time at the piano in a comfortable setting.
A Mozart score on the music stand of Lisa's piano, with a metronome and a plant nearby

If you'd like it

ABRSM exam preparation is available for anyone who would like it, but it is always a choice, never the point.

Ask about lessons

Rates

Lesson rates

Lessons are one-to-one. The length of the lesson depends on the stage and age of the learner. As a general guide, see the rates below.

  • 30 minutes £22 Beginners to Grade 2
  • 45 minutes £33 Grade 3 to 4
  • 60 minutes £44 Grade 5 and above

Fees for children are spread evenly across the year and paid in twelve equal monthly payments, so the amount stays the same each month, school holidays included. Adult lessons are arranged on a weekly basis. Get in touch and we can talk it through.

Gift vouchers are also available.

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.