The core principle of my teaching approach is that goals and objectives are agreed with the
students. My experience taught me that while some students may be willing to undertake piano
exams, others are not comfortable with that pressure and want to learn piano to simply have fun,
learn pieces they like, or realize their long-term dream of learning an instrument. Whatever their
motivation is, I tailor my teaching approach and strategies to the individual goals each student has
for their own learning.
While piano is generally perceived as a solitary instrument, I do not underestimate the value of
music making in group contexts and I seek opportunities for those students who are willing to
expand their musicianship further or meet new peers by organising four-hand duets and setting up
regular informal performance recitals.
On one thing, however, I do not compromise: my students’ health. Both my research interests and
activities within the University of York Music department relate to musicians’ health and wellness
and I actively pursue the promotion of healthy habits in my piano lessons by choosing suitable
repertoire tailored individually to each student, discussing posture and appropriate practice
strategies.