Why learn music theory?

Theory is not a hurdle to clear before the "real" music. For the performing musician, it is what lets you hear where a phrase is going, why a passage feels tense, and how to play a piece as its composer imagined it. Understanding the building blocks of Western Classical Music develops the way that we engage with it, whether that’s listening to it, performing it, writing it or

Do I need Grade 5 Theory?

If you want to take ABRSM practical Grades 6, 7 or 8, yes: Grade 5 Theory (or an equivalent) is a prerequisite. Trinity does not require it.

What theory do you teach?

- Grade 5 Theory, Grades 6 to 8, and Trinity equivalents.

- A level harmony and analysis.

- Theory for players: harmony and analysis applied to the pieces you're learning, for adults and advanced students of any instrument.

Where do you teach music theory, and is it one-to-one?

I teach either in Folkestone or online [most usually on Zoom]. I teach students one-to-one. In person lessons or group lessons by request.

Do I need any previous musical training?

I have taught music theory and appreciation to people with no musical training at all, and we have started from the very basic rudiments. If you already play a musical instrument, you will know a lot more about music theory than you think - you have used it all in your playing, and theory lessons just go through the process of identifying and labelling these elements.

How much is a lesson?

Folkestone or online: £50 per hour.