Teaching Experience

Stephen has had wide and varied teaching experience spanning over the last twenty-three years.  Although he has always taught privately, Stephen has worked as a lecturer in Higher and Further Education where he taught Performance, Composition and Arranging, Theory, and History and Analysis. It is this experience that has helped to forge his unique style of teaching that he adapts to respond effectively to students of all ages and abilities.

Whilst he continues to teach both Classical and Jazz Piano at Salford University, Stephen has concentrated on the expansion and consolidation of his private teaching practice over the last seven years. Stephen is a member of the Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM).

Philosophy

Having a deep knowledge of the piano and its associated repertoire is essential. Moreover, nurturing a love of music in all students by encouraging them to listen to a wide variety of music - by both listening to recordings and by going to concerts. Central to developing the all-round musician, students are encouraged to take part in music-making by performing for family and friends (at the pupilís discretion!), or by joining a group or ensemble.  The most important consideration, however, must be that learning should be fun!!!

Tailor-Made Courses

The advantages of quality private music tuition have long been recognised - the flexibility to develop oneís own curriculum to suit individual needs is invaluable.  In addition to teaching Classical/Jazz Piano and Theory, Stephen also offers tuition in Composition and Arranging, together with GCSE, A Level, and Degree support.

Who Can Learn

Anyone can ñ the only prerequisite being a desire to learn!

Age Range and Ability

Stephen welcomes students of all ages and ability, from young children to adults, and from beginners to advanced level including Diploma.

Exams

For many people, exams are a great motivating factor - a means where both parents and students can measure the level and speed of progress. In addition to this, there is great importance attached to ëachievingí in todayís society by passing examinations. Stephen enters students mainly for Associated Board music exams, but not exclusively. Syllabi from other exam boards such as L.C.M., Guildhall and Trinity are also taught. Stephen enjoys a 100% pass rate, thanks to his effective teaching strategies.

Pleasure

Learning a musical instrument is extremely rewarding in itself, and very often is the only motivating factor. Whilst there are no short cuts to becoming a good player, a pathway without the pressure of examinations is sometimes more appropriate for some students, especially adult learners - who prefer the flexibility of working at their own pace, around their often busy lives.

Resources

Stephen has a well-equipped and up-to-date teaching studio - the centre-piece being a modern Steinway Model 'B' grand piano. In addition to this, the studio contains excellent digital recording facilities, together with an extensive library of recordings and text books.

Fees

Fees are currently £26 per hour pro rata, and are paid a calendar month in advance. Minimum lesson time is half an hour per week. The length and period of lessons are by negotiation and will largely be determined by the personal requirements of each individual student.

Holidays

Teaching continues throughout the year, and doesnít follow any specific academic calendar. This allows for continuous support for students whose exams can be at any time of the year. The practice will close for two weeks in the Summer holidays and at Christmas, together with one week at Easter. Teaching continues during half-term but attendance is optional.