Teaching

Click on the link to go to Richard’s dedicated website for piano lessons.

Richard trained as a classroom music teacher at University of London Goldsmiths’ College, where he obtained a BMus and a PGCE in secondary music education. Since 1988 he has been giving piano lessons, and the unique teaching style that he has developed has seen many of his students progress at a far quicker rate than they might under the tuition of someone less experienced. Richard teaches a range of pupils – currently his youngest is 6 and his oldest is in his 50s.

Essentially, Richard believes in teaching about broad musical concepts as soon as possible in order to understand music as a whole. Of course he teaches technique, but only as a part of what must be learnt. He teaches people to read music where appropriate (it isn’t always), and works with his students to achieve the targets that they set themselves.

Richard teaches piano, musicianship, acoustic guitar, songwriting, music technology and band skills. His charges reflect the focused teaching which you will receive and the years of experience that he has gained in order to give the very best service to his pupils. Richard charges £25 for a half-hour or £45 for an hour. If you want a half-day session (4 hours), which could be a combination of skills, this will cost £170. A full day (8 hours) will cost £300. The longer sessions can be done in groups of up to 4, but there will be a surcharge of £25 per extra person. Thus, if 4 people want to hire Richard for the day to work with their band, that will cost £300 plus 3 x £25 = £375, which works out as £93.75 per head.

Some testimonials from Richard’s pupils (and parents of)…

“Richard is a marvellous teacher, inspiring, creative and untiringly positive; his energy and understanding have enabled both my children to grow into sensitive, imaginative musicians.”
Leora Brook – parent

“Richard has been an inspirational teacher, enabling me to develop my musical skills in different areas such as improvisation, songwriting and music technology. He’s a patient, encouraging teacher and great fun to learn from!”
Andrea Staniforth – (adult) pupil

“Richard is an inspiring and creative teacher”
Anna Maria Heseltine – parent

“Richard has proven…that it is possible to turn around an ailing department and make music exciting and appealing for all children…”
Mrs Kay Bickley – Headteacher (retired), Blackheath Bluecoat School