About Me

From childhood inspiration to guitar as a career

I started learning guitar at primary school, but my passion for performing began when I won the Dudley Young Musician prize at the age of 13. This inspired me to make music my career, ultimately going on to complete BMus(hons) in Classical Guitar at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire (RBC), studying with Mark Ashford and Mark Eden, two of the world’s leading guitarists.

Excellence in teaching and learning to the highest standard

I have been teaching since 2006 and have taught students, of all ages and backgrounds, from beginner to the highest level, in individual settings, small group settings and whole class settings. I have extensive experience of the differences between the ABRSM and Trinity boards, entering students from grades 1 to 8 in both, with many of my students passing grade 8 with distinction.

Recently one of my students, obtained a scholarship to study at the Royal Academy of Music and currently holds the New Elizabethan Award, one of the most prestigious prizes in classical guitar. Watching him perform his debut at Wigmore Hall, was an incredibly proud moment for me.

Performance

During my time at RBC, I developed a passion for playing in ensemble, performing for guitarists such as Andrew York and William Kannengiser (Grammy Award winning Los Angeles Guitar Quartet). I was also a finalist in the ensemble prize and my major project was to arrange Romancero Gitano for guitar quartet and chamber choir, and to organise a concert series, to perform this piece with my own guitar quartet, Nocturne Guitar Quartet.

Performance is a fundamental part of learning and throughout my career I have organised 100+ concerts and performances. I have been lucky enough to travel throughout Europe, performing at guitar festivals such as Iserlohn in Germany and organising a guitar series in Malta.

  • You will a need a classical guitar to start lessons with but this doesn’t have to be expensive. I can recommend local shops or particular models if you would like.

  • I have many years experience teaching all exam levels with many students gaining high marks in Trinity and ABRSM exams. Students are encouraged to take exams if this is something they want to do, however there is no pressure to do this if you just want to play for your own enjoyment.

  • Parents are always welcome to stay and watch. There is ample seating in the studio or we have plenty of space to park if you want to wait outside.

  • There is no “right” age to start but as a rough guide I would recommend about 7/8 (year 3) although I have had many successful students who have started earlier. I have taught many adults also.

  • I have worked in many schools in Warwickshire and Birmingham and have a full enhanced DBS check. I am happy to show this if requested.

  • I am happy to teach groups if siblings or friends want to learn together. Please contact me regarding pricing for this.

  • Lessons take place at my studio in Hatton. Travel can be discussed on a case by case basis within the local area but will incur an additional charge.

  • I am experienced in teaching music theory and have helped many students gain their grade 5 to go on to higher instrumental grades.