Teaching

 
 Welcome to my Teaching Page! Teaching has been an integral part of my
 activities as a musician since 2001. I have had pupils ranging all ages and
 abilities.

 Below is some information which might be useful if you are considering lessons
 for yourself or your child. Lessons are given in English or in French and take
 place in Kilburn.

 Choosing a teacher

 Finding the right teacher can be daunting! Taking a trial lesson before making a commitment is always
 my first recommendation, as it is the best way to see if student and teacher work well together. It is
 important for continuity's sake that a student remain several years with the same teacher.

 Choosing an instrument
 The next step is finding a cello, a bow and a case, which can be rented or purchased. Always ask to
 borrow the instrument before purchasing, to try it out and show it to a teacher. You will also need to buy
 rosin for the bow and a music stand. Smaller instruments exist for children. The following can be used
 as a general guide:
1/8 size - 4 to 6 years old (up to 4 feet tall)
1/4 size - 5 to 7 years old (up to 4 feet tall)
1/2 size - 7 to 11 years old (up to 4 1/2 feet tall)
3/4 size - 11 to 15 years old (up to 5 feet tall)
4/4 size (full size) - 15 years old and above (over 5 feet tall)

 Starting age for children
 Generally, children can begin learning the cello from the age of seven, though I have had four-year-old
 pupils who had excellent concentration skills! Learning to read the notes, understand rhythm and
 generally appreciate music can and should begin earlier. This can be done at the keyboard and through
 games.

 Choosing a goal
 Some food for thought: learning to play an instrument is a life-long endeavor, and finding attainable
 objectives is essential to a pupil´s satisfaction. Your goal may be to play with other musicians (that´s the
 reason I started), to prepare an exam, to learn your favorite piece... anything is possible. One of the
 projects I enjoy most is the making of a CD with my younger pupils for them to give to family for
 Christmas.