
Cello lessons in Leeds
Leeds tutors guide bowing, rhythm, and musicality — Headingley to Roundhay or online.
Teachers near Leeds
Browse a few nearby teachers to get started — or search again above to refine.
Hello, my name is Ellie and I am a cellist, cello teacher, and music therapist with over 14 years of experience teaching students of all ages, from 5 to 84 years old. My teaching approach is grounded in person-centered principles, drawing on the rich traditions of humanistic pedagogy. It emphasizes nurturing the students' individuality and creativity, empowering them to make informed, meaningful decisions about their own learning journey. I hold a Bachelor of Music from Canterbury Christ Church University and a Master’s in Music Therapy from Nordoff Robbins. In addition to teaching, I perform in various ensembles as an improviser and composer and work as a Neurologic Music Therapist, specialising in supporting individuals with disabilities. I have received certification in Neurologic Music Therapy from the Academy of Neurologic Music Therapy in Toronto, Canada. My cello lessons cover a comprehensive curriculum, including music theory, technique, etudes, exercises, and a wide range of pieces. The lessons can be tailored to your specific goals and interests, whether you’re aiming to prepare for grade exams, perform in concerts or chamber music groups, or simply learn for personal enjoyment. Please note that all lessons are held online.
Whether you are a beginner struggling to find your voice and want to have fun singing your favourite music or want a more professional level of training, I can provide accessible vocal training for all levels and genres, with a friendly and encouraging approach. I provide accessible cello tuition for beginner to intermediates. I place great importance on developing a true connection to the cello that is relaxed and focussed, developing a sound that you enjoy. I work with students to improve not only their general technique and quality but also work on performance confidence, communication, leadership and directing. I can also provide support leading up to performances and auditions. If you are looking to take exams, we can also discuss taking grades. If you would like to write your own music, songs or lyrics I can help with this too. I can teach lessons in-person, online or from your home depending on the distance. In terms of my professional experience I am a Classically trained vocalist and cellist with a love for all types of music and performance. I began singing as a member of the Exeter Cathedral and Buckfast Abbey choirs and have a BA Hons in Classical Voice from Leeds Conservatoire. I have performed with a diverse number of groups including Opera North, Leeds Contemporary Singers, Leeds Baroque Choir, LCON Chamber Choir and Orchestra (cello), Contemporary Pop Choir and LCON Opera Scenes; I was also Music Director for the LCON Opera Society in 2019. My performance experience spans genres such as Classical, Pop, Rock, Hip Hop, Punk, Jazz, Folk and more! Since graduating in June 2020 I have been working as a professional session vocalist and cellist for a variety of recording sessions and performances and regularly perform with bands, groups and ensembles. I have plenty of experience leading choirs, orchestras, opera groups, bands and continue to teach 1 to 1.
About cello lessons in Leeds
Leeds teachers balance solid technique with music you enjoy. Learn in Headingley, Chapel Allerton, or online when travel is tight.
Tutors cover Leeds, Chapel Allerton, Roundhay, and nearby towns, plus online lessons for flexibility.

Find professional teachers with clearer trust signals — and inquire in minutes.
Cello lessons: what to expect
Find local cello teachers for in-person bow and tone work; online lessons suit repertoire coaching and interpretation.
Beginners to advanced students preparing for conservatoire, auditions or performance.
Bow technique, shifting, tone, repertoire and musical expression.
In-person tuition is invaluable for bowing technique; online lessons are effective for musical coaching and repertoire work.
A simple learning path for cello
A good teacher will tailor lessons to your goals — but here’s what progress often looks like.
Set up, posture, simple bowing and basic scales to develop clear tone.
Develop shifting, vibrato beginnings and work on standard repertoire and orchestral excerpts.
Prepare concerto/sonata excerpts, chamber music and audition materials with focused coaching.
Getting started: what you need
Keep it simple at first — your teacher can help you choose the right setup.
- A well-setup cello and bow with a teacher-recommended string choice.
- A quiet practice space and a tuner/metronome for intonation and rhythm work.
- Regular practice focusing on bow distribution and left-hand accuracy.
Styles & goals your teacher can support
Choose a direction — lessons can be tailored around what you actually want to play.
Tone production, orchestral excerpts and ensemble blending.
Communication, phrasing and repertoire for small ensembles.
Modern repertoire and extended techniques for advanced players.
Browse cello lessons by location
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Popular cities for cello lessons
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Other lessons in Leeds
Trust & safety
Parents and students should always feel confident asking about safeguarding, insurance, and lesson policies.
FAQs about cello lessons in Leeds
Yes — we start with posture, bow hold, and simple études to build confidence.
Yes — online coaching is available for weekly or occasional sessions.
Tutors can rehearse orchestra or band parts to prepare you for rehearsals.
No — exams are optional. Teachers can guide ABRSM, Trinity, or RSL if you choose.
Many tutors teach children and adjust lesson pace to suit them.
Many start around age 5–7 depending on size; beginner-friendly small cellos are available.
Yes for repertoire and musical coaching; bowing technique benefits from occasional in-person guidance.
