About me
What are your qualifications?
I hold a Master of Music and a Bachelor of Arts in Trombone Performance from UCLA. I spent four years as Professor of Low Brass at the Nanhai Conservatory of Music and have taught low brass for over 15 years, from school beginners to conservatoire students.
Where have you performed professionally?
I held the bass trombone chairs of the La Jolla Symphony and the Gaslamp Quarter Jazz Orchestra, and played as a substitute with the San Diego Symphony and San Diego Opera. Other work includes theatre pits at the Utah Shakespeare Festival, cruise ship showbands, and opening for the Rolling Stones 50th Anniversary Tour at the Staples Center.
Are you DBS checked?
Yes. I hold an Enhanced DBS check and have completed safeguarding training in both the UK and the US. I follow standard safeguarding practice for lessons with children, including a parent or guardian being welcome to sit in at any time.
My lessons
Is the first lesson really free?
Yes. Your first lesson is free, in person or online, with no obligation to continue. It gives us both a chance to see how we work together before you commit to anything.
How much do lessons cost?
Standard lessons are £20 for 30 minutes or £35 for a full hour, with no contracts or termly commitments. Buy nine lessons in a block and the tenth is free. Home lessons carry a small additional charge. Full details are on the prices page.
Where do lessons take place?
My teaching base is Quad Studios in Leicester. Home lessons are available across Leicester, Loughborough, Hinckley, Melton Mowbray, Wigston and Oadby for an additional charge, and I teach online by video call for students further afield.
Do you prepare students for ABRSM and Trinity exams?
Yes. I prepare students for ABRSM and Trinity graded exams on trombone, euphonium, baritone and tuba, from Initial through Grade 8, as well as auditions for county ensembles, brass bands and conservatoire entry.
Do I need my own instrument before starting?
No. Come to your first lesson empty handed and I will help you choose the right instrument and the most sensible way to get one, whether that is hiring, buying second hand, or starting on a plastic pBone.
Learning low brass
Is the trombone hard to learn?
It is one of the more approachable brass instruments to start. There are no valves or fingerings to memorise, and most beginners play recognisable tunes within their first few lessons. The slide takes patience to control precisely, which is where one-to-one teaching helps most.
What age can my child start?
Most children are ready for trombone or baritone from around age 7 or 8, once their adult front teeth are settled. Smaller players often begin on pBone or baritone before moving to a full size instrument. Adults can start at any age.
Which low brass instrument should a beginner choose?
It depends on age, physique and what you want to play. Trombone suits most beginners and styles. Baritone is ideal for younger children. Euphonium and tuba are the heart of the brass band and always in demand. We can try options in your first lesson.
