Information About Matthew - Caerphilly teacher -

(4 reviews)

Personal Description:

*I am also currently offering lessons online* I am a teacher, pianist and composer currently working in Cardiff and the surrounding areas. With a wide range of composing experience, my pieces have been performed in the UK and Europe, and I have personally performed in many venues including The Royal Festival Hall, London.

My specialisms include piano performance and technique, classical and popular composition, and musical theory, analysis, and history.

Tutoring Experience:

With over 10 years teaching experience, I have picked up knowledge about music and teaching from a wide range of students, from ages 4 to 80, and with a wide range of abilities, from beginners to post-grade 8, and students with learning difficulties. I have taught both towards examinations, and for pleasure. I have completed the NSCPP Child Protection Awareness in Music course, in which I achieved 100%.

I also hold a Masters in Music Composition and a PhD in Music Composition.

I currently hold a 100% Merit and Distinction exam rate for pupils.

Tutoring Approach:

I pride myself on taking a very individualised approach to teaching, and I do not follow a set lesson plan for all students. Each student will have lessons planned specifically for them, their needs and their abilities, which are interesting and diverse. Notes are always provided for students and, when requested, I give full feedback to parents or guardians at the end of the lesson. This helps students prepare for the next lesson and ensure that everyone is aware of the student's development.

The majority of my pupils work towards graded examinations with ABRSM, however I am also happy to use alternative exam boards if you prefer, and I am also happy to teach for pleasure! Music should be fun and so are my lessons - with my varied and tailored approach, no two lessons are the same!

I allow students to have some choice in the music they play, once they are at a stage where they can do so, and strive to accommodate wherever I can, including arranging pieces for my students if they want a specific piece to play at their level!

I believe in an all-round musical education, not simply designed just to teach students how to pass exams, but how to help them develop into independent musicians, with a broad and far-reaching understanding of music. Therefore, instrumental lessons include insights and information on music theory and history, meaning you don't get to grade 5 piano and suddenly realise you have no theory knowledge!

I hold at least one concert annually, but in many years, there are two. Student's are allowed to participate if they wish, but it is not a requirement! The concerts are a fantastic opportunity to have a low pressure and friendly performance experience. Students and families always love them!