Information About Simon - Shipley teacher

Personal Description:

I am a guitar and clawhammer banjo tutor based in Bradford, who graduated with a BA Hons in Music Technology and Popular Music from Huddersfield University.

I have 15 years experience of teaching, at all age ranges and ability levels, and both in private settings and in educational institutions. I have also done a lot of work in SEN settings and with people with additional needs. I strive to help all of my students achieve success in setting and meeting their own personal goals, whilst maintaining a fun and relaxed environment.

I was born in Sheffield, England, and have always had a love of music. I first started learning classical guitar aged 8, and then over time branched out into electric guitar, acoustic guitar, banjo, ukulele, mandolin, bouzouki and bass! This had led me to perform both in solo situations and in ensembles in a wide range of styles, including folk, blues, soul, jazz and classical.

Whilst at University I was part of a band called Maia, and performed nationally and internationally, playing prestigious festivals such as Glastonbury, Isle of Wight, Cambridge Folk Festival and Cropredy Festival. I now also play solo and with a number of groups including Redwood River Band and Sugarwell Hill, as well as running a monthly Old Time Jam session in Leeds.

Tutoring Experience:

I have 15 years experience teaching all levels and ages. I teach clawhammer Banjo, all styles of guitar, and ukulele. Whatever style you are wanting to learn, I will guide you through important skill-sets such as: reading music notation, learning scales, improvising, fretboard harmony, soloing, music theory, performance skills, and much more.

Tutoring Approach:

My approach to music tuition is to always put the needs of the pupil first. I like to find the best way for each individual to learn and to work with them to realise their potential. I am a friendly and patient teacher and like to make the lessons as fun as possible. During the Covid pandemic, I have been teaching online via Zoom. I can also accommodate Skype lessons too. Teaching online has meant that I can now accomdate students from all over the world, and have taught people in Sweden, Canada and the USA.