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My name is Anna and I teach quality music lessons from my Poynton studio and online in Piano, Guitar, Saxophone, Composition, Music Production and Music Theory. All ages and abilities are welcome, from young to old and from beginner to advanced. I carefully tailor lessons to each person's learning style, goals and music preferences. In lessons you will play great music, work on technique, apply music theory, play fun music games and take part in creative activities such as improvisation or composition. I teach a wide range of styles including Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Folk and music from various cultures. I will source and often notate level-appropriate pieces for each individual student, depending on what they are into - whether it's classical, latin jazz, a recent pop song, a classical arrangement of a rock track, or a piano version of a hip hop tune. I have a patient and friendly approach and always like to keep lessons fun and engaging. It's music; it's meant to be fun! My music therapy training informs my teaching so I try to be sensitive to the well-being of each person and aim to create a safe space for all students in which they can feel at ease and gain confidence. For those who wish to take exams, my student pass rate is 100% and I’m very familiar with the ABRSM, Trinity, RSL and LCM exam boards. Please read my reviews to see what students say about my lessons. Lessons are either at my studio in Poynton or online. Online lessons are interactive and clear as I use multiple webcams and a virtual piano. Students enjoy the convenience of these lessons and love them as much as face-to-face. I graduated from Leeds College of Music with a BA (Hons) in 2006, and then gained my post-graduate teaching qualification (PGCE) at Huddersfield University in 2009. I have worked as a classroom music & music technology teacher for ages 11-18 on GCSE, BTEC and A-level courses. I’ve led numerous ensembles including guitar and ukulele groups, jazz bands and choirs, and have led music workshops in primary schools and universities. I launched Animo Music School in 2016 with the aim to provide quality, person-centered music education tailored to the individual. In 2018 I qualified as a Music Therapist (MSc) at St Margaret’s University in Edinburgh and am registered to perform this role. Music therapy is a recognised psychological service which allows the client to form a safe and trusting relationship with the therapist in order to work on issues such as communication and anxiety which may stem from earlier life experiences. Music is used as the main form of communication which can help bring hidden feelings conscious, with the aim of improving mental health. If you have any questions about music therapy feel free to get in touch. I continue to develop my own music creativity through writing and producing my own music and performing live. I compose TV and production music with many works published and played on national and international TV and radio. So you know you’re getting a tutor who is constantly honing their craft and who works in the music industry. I also hold an up-to-date enhanced DBS check for your peace of mind. I look forward to hearing from you! Anna Hetherington BA (Hons), PGCE, MSc
Hi, I'm Billy, a guitarist from South East London who's been performing live since I was eighteen. I was trained at the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance and have over five years of private teaching experience. Having begun as a self-taught musician, I believe it is fundamental for students to first find their passion, as this will provide the necessary motivation to advance. Whether you've just got your first guitar, or you wish to build upon your existing skills and advance your playing - I will make sure to tailor my lessons to you. With more than seventeen years of playing, over five years experience teaching privately, and two and half years spent in primary schools, I am well versed in teaching both young and old, new and advanced students. As a versatile musician, I am accomplished in many genres and playing styles, including rock, blues, jazz, metal, funk, disco, country, pop, soul, punk and many more. Having helped students learn their first song, while also helping others improve their improvisation and soloing skills, I am confident and happy to teach students of all ages and abilities. As a songwriter and performer in my own band, I have performed across the country for many years, showcasing my own compositions. I also have experience working with singer songwriters, function bands and session work. I have six years of musical education, having studied at Access To Music in Stratford, before studying music at degree level at The Institute of Contemporary Music Performance in Kilburn, where I achieved First Class Honours.
Gene has gained a wealth of music knowledge after touring Europe and the UK playing in several high-profile bands over the last 25 years. He strives to pass on this knowledge to other musicians and his students, and he is keen to develop their passion for music. Gene has achieved a successful teaching business which was started in Jan 2012, and has taught hundreds of students over the last decade both privately and within schools, with 100% pass rate for exams through Rock School, ABRSM and Trinity Rock and Pop syllabuses. Gene delivers personalised lessons to suit the needs of each individual learner. He really understands how to make music accessible to all. Gene has expanded his knowledge by studying a degree in music at Nexus ICA in Coventry. After working as a music provider for a year at the Cube Disability, Northampton, he is widening his teaching scope and pursuing a master’s degree in music therapy to provide therapy to all ages. Helping to improve the quality of life for children and adults with learning difficulties. He is passionate about helping others to feel a sense of achievement and well-being and through his passion in music he is achieving this. Gene has an innate understanding of the power of music in improving mental wellbeing and supporting neurodiversity. Gene has recorded, managed, and performed nationally and internationally with many bands since the age of 14. He has been Musical Director for a George Michael tribute show and Soul of the Town Motown and Soul show band. He currently still performs keys regularly with a popular covers band, as well as playing saxophone and piano for wedding guests and corporate clients. Qualifications: BA Hons First Class Degree in Popular Music and Worship, Diploma in Sound Engineering and Music Production
I have been a full-time music teacher for over 35 years now and this is my main focus so you can expect a competent, well prepared, structured lessons aimed at your needs and level. I am usually available 52 weeks of the year so you also get an uninterrupted schedule. Besides teaching the other part of my music career is songwriting and production which I also have a long track record of. Over 80 tracks are my SoundCloud but that’s about 20% of my output. So besides the technical niceties of guitar, I have a good understanding of form structure and lyrics and also the recording process. I play a number of instruments including banjo, ukulele, bass, lap steel, mandolin, mandola, harmonica and keyboard. I have performed in a large number of local bands in the 90s in Coventry and Birmingham but this is historical and I am not active in the live music scene at the moment. I have also been a journalist for a street worm a local music journal. Music Qualifications & Achievements: Highest qualification MA uni Warwick
Hello, my name is Bernard Kane, I have been playing the violin and viola since before I was a teenager and have an absolute passion for music. I absolutely adore inspiring others to play music. I studied at the Royal College of Music in London, Yale School of Music, UCLA and have a doctorate in music performance from the University of British Columbia, Canada. Originally from Wales, I have taught and performed all over the world in venues that include: Carnegie Hall, New York City, The Royal Albert Hall, London, The Royal National Theatre, Southbank, London and St David's Hall, Cardiff. I have performed with artists that include: Quincy Jones, Natalie Cole, Manic Street Preachers, Ricky Martin and many others. Whether you want to play music just for fun or want to train to become a professional violinist or violist, I focus on each individual's own ambitions as a player. I design lessons that encourage my students to reach their goals in an encouraging and exciting way. I always aim to have a student create a beautiful singing tone with a solid technique that enhances beautiful music making. I have a 100% pass rate for all my students that have taken both ABRSM and Trinity College London exams. "Bernard is hands down the best violin/viola teacher around. Not only is he an amazing player, he is also an amazing composer, orchestrator, and historian. He brings his extensive musical knowledge to each lesson. Bernard’s personality is the perfect balance of serious, caring and humorous. He relates well to people of all ages and talent levels. I recommend Bernard with the highest confidence, you will think he’s amazing!" - Meghan Turner, Long Beach, California
I’m Kwabla Amenyah, a Pianist, Music Educator, and Curriculum Designer dedicated to helping learners of all ages discover the joy of music. With 10+ years of experience, my lessons focus on piano & vocal performance, music theory, and exam preparation for ABRSM and Cambridge, while also welcoming those who simply want to explore music for personal enjoyment. I use clear explanations, practical exercises, and easy‑to‑follow resources to make complex ideas simple and engaging. Over the years, I’ve guided beginners, advanced students, and diploma candidates, always tailoring lessons to individual goals. I also design educational materials that explain theory in straightforward language, ensuring students feel confident rather than overwhelmed. In class, I combine practice with understanding, so learners not only play but also grasp the structure behind the music. Technology plays a big role in my teaching—I use modern tools to speed up progress, reinforce mastery, and make lessons interactive. At the same time, I place strong emphasis on building a solid foundation that supports growth far beyond expectations. Outside teaching, I continue to create curricula, publish resources, and explore new ways to make music education inspiring and effective. I aim to help every student develop lasting skills, confidence, and a deep love for music.
My Journey and Academic Background My name is Neil, and my career has been defined by a deep-seated passion for music and a commitment to the art of teaching. My professional foundation is built upon a rigorous academic and practical background: I hold a Master’s Degree in Music from Newcastle University and a Diploma in Piano Performance. These qualifications represent my dedication to both the academic study of musicology and the technical demands of professional performance. Currently, I balance a thriving private practice with my role as a teacher at the Yamaha School of Music. Working within the Yamaha system allows me to stay at the forefront of modern music pedagogy, ensuring my methods are always fresh, effective, and student-centered. 20 Years of Diverse Classroom Expertise With over two decades of experience working within the heart of the UK education system, I have had the privilege of navigating the diverse landscape of mainstream schools. My time in the classroom has been incredibly rewarding, as it required me to communicate the language of music to a vast range of learners. I am just as comfortable teaching a student with no prior musical knowledge as I am mentoring a musician with significant experience on their instrument. I have a proven track record of taking complex, abstract concepts and breaking them down into "lightbulb moments" for students who may have previously found music theory inaccessible. This experience has taught me that there is no "one size fits all" approach; every student deserves a lesson tailored to their unique pace and interests. My Philosophy: Making Theory "Click" I believe that music education should be, above all else, fun and engaging. There is a common misconception that music theory is a dry, academic chore—a "roadblock" that stands in the way of making music. My mission is to dismantle that wall. In my studio, theory is not just about marks on a page; it is the "grammar" of a language we all love. When you understand the theory, the music you play on your instrument suddenly makes sense. Having achieved a Performance Diploma myself, I know exactly how much a solid grasp of theory enhances your ability to interpret and perform at a high level. I specialise in ABRSM Music Theory, with a particular focus on the "Grade 5 hurdle," helping students replace rote memorization with genuine, lasting understanding. A Supportive Environment for All Patience and friendliness are the cornerstones of my teaching practice. I am proud to work with students of all ages and abilities. To the young learner, I am a supportive mentor who makes the syllabus feel like an adventure. To the adult learner, I am a peer and a guide, helping you rediscover the joy of music with the maturity and context that adult brains crave. Learning a musical concept is a vulnerable process, and I pride myself on creating a "safe-to-fail" environment. Whether we are working through a tricky past paper or exploring the harmonic structure of a favorite piece of music, I am there to provide encouragement and clarity every step of the way. Why Online Learning Works Transitioning my 20 years of expertise into the online space allows me to utilize incredible digital tools—interactive staves, high-quality audio, and visual whiteboards—that often make theory easier to grasp than traditional methods. Whether you are aiming for a Distinction in your next ABRSM exam or you simply want to understand the inner workings of the music you love, I have the experience, the high-level qualifications, and the passion to help you get there. I look forward to meeting you and starting this musical journey together.
John Spoulos,I have been teaching for five decades.I have had three rock stars and two Grammy nominees as,well as numerous performers,college scholarships for students.We teach all of the,styles,but more importantly, I wrap the lessons around,what students want to learn.You puck the genre and songs,we then go to work enabling you to achieve your musical goals.The lessons,are thirty minute,once a week sessions geared toward your goals and,ability to achieve them.We can do in studio,or, online.Most students are within a,several month framework to achieve.My technique gets you to where you wish to be. While I cannot guarantee you will be a star,I can guarantee that you will achieve your goals.Visit the website,Raritanbaymusicschool.com to hear our performing lesson students.
About Find music history lessons
Music history lessons cover stylistic developments, influential works and how historical context shaped musical evolution.
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Music history lessons: what to expect
Who music history lessons suit
Students, musicians and curious listeners wanting structured historical knowledge and listening skills.
A simple learning path for music history
A good teacher will tailor lessons to your goals — but here’s what progress often looks like.
Survey of major historical periods and listening milestones.
Focused study of specific composers, genres and cultural contexts.
Getting started: what you need
Keep it simple at first — your teacher can help you choose the right setup.
- Access to recordings and a notebook for listening notes.
- Suggested reading list from your tutor.
Styles & goals your teacher can support
Choose a direction — lessons can be tailored around what you actually want to play.
From medieval to contemporary music history.
Cultural context and cross-cultural influences.
Related lessons
Trust & safety
Parents and students should always feel confident asking about safeguarding, insurance, and lesson policies.
FAQs about music history lessons
No — lessons are accessible to listeners and performers alike.