Information About Fiona - Haringey teacher -

(3 reviews)

Personal Description:

Fiona is a trained primary school teacher and a graduate of Leeds College of Music, where she obtained a first-class degree in Music, specialising in vocals, songwriting, community music and education.

In addition to her studies, Fiona has been performing since the age of 11, taking part in concerts and musical theatre productions whilst at school and then working in various bands as a backing vocalist, lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist. She has always had an affinity and talent for songwriting and enjoys sharing her skills with others.

Fiona has had enhanced DBS check and is a member of the update service. If you would like to view her certificate, please ask.

Tutoring Experience:

As a qualified teacher with a PGCE, I have studied the science and theory of learning in-depth, which informs my instrumental teaching. My teaching is grounded in my musical knowledge, as well as my research completed whilst studying for my PGCE and my teaching experience in schools.

Before training to teach, I worked as a music tutor for two years. Over two years, I built a music tuition and workshop business. I worked as a music tutor and freelance as a workshop facilitator with organisations such as PQA Exeter and Find Your Voice, London. I have worked with adults, young people and children.
• Working one-on-one and in small groups to develop vocal, guitar and songwriting skills.
• Researching, planning and delivering singing and general music skills workshops with adults and young people.
• Considering any barriers to learning and adjusting course content and style appropriately.
• Adhering to safeguarding practices and ensuring the safety of students.

Leeds College of Music - The Noisey Project

This community outreach project was aimed to engage children who may not be able to access music tuition due to financial, social or geographical constraints. Funded by Leeds City Council and Leeds College of Music this project lasted for 10 weeks where I worked as the Lead Practitioner planning and delivering songwriting sessions to a group of 10 students. As well as working with the wider group I worked one on one with individuals in the group to improve their playing ability and confidence.

Leeds College of Music - Saturday music school

I delivered 12 songwriting sessions to 4 different groups over 3 Saturdays, The groups ranged from 16 -30 students and from ages 9-18. We worked in a large group to write a song on the subject of the students choosing, incorporating all players from different musical disciplines.

Leeds College of Music - Introduction to Songwriting Short Course

Working with a group of 6 adults to introduce both experienced and beginner players to the concepts of songwriting.

Converge Leeds - Converge Tutor

As part of my degree study, I undertook a placement with Converge where I worked in a team of 3 to plan, deliver and evaluate a 6-week songwriting course for people in Leeds with mental health difficulties. As well as working with the whole group I instructed individuals on guitar, piano and voice to improve their musical and performance skills.

Tutoring Approach:

I believe that everyone should be given the chance to develop their musical skills and the benefits of learning an instrument can be more than just gaining a grade or qualification. Music not only improves our well-being and helps us to relax but can improve confidence, academic achievement and give us vital social and teamworking skills.

If you choose to study with me, your study will be lead by you. What I mean by this is that if you wish to study for grade exams I can assist you but if you wish to take a more informal approach such as concentrating specific goals and skills I can also help. Maybe you want to learn to play the guitar and sing at the same time? Maybe you want to learn to sing your favourite song? Perhaps you've begun writing songs of your own or you are in a band with your friends and you would like to start writing? Or perhaps you simply want some time every week to learn more about your voice and capabilities.

I believe no two students are the same and everyone has different interests and goals when it comes to musical learning.

If you are learning guitar you will need to have your own guitar. The first-hour session will be half price (unfortunately I cannot offer this for 1/2 hour lessons).