Piano lessons in Edinburgh
Learn with kindness and clarity in Scotland's cultural capital.
Teachers near Edinburgh
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23 years experience - All ages and stages of learner - Online lessons so you can learn from the comfort of your own home - Piano, Music Theory, Recorder, Clarinet, Saxophone - First trial lesson free! I'm a highly experienced music teacher with 23 years teaching experience working with all ages and stages of learner. I teach piano, recorder, clarinet, saxophone and theory through my own self employed private teaching practice. I work at the pace and to the interests of the learner. If someone wants to go down the exam route then we can do that, or if they want to learn for fun that is also on offer. I have also helped people with short term musical goals, such as passing exams, or auditions with less than expected notice. I have experience working with those with additional support needs (ASN/SEND) too. I have an excellent pass and results rate with exams, and in particular with music theory exams. I know that every student is different and learns in different ways and at different paces, so you'll always get a bespoke and learner-centred approach if you have lessons with me. I also have expert knowledge in alternative notation systems (such as Figurenotes) that are ideal for those with learning needs or dyslexia. I also often teach with the help and assistance of my 21 year old cat, Tess! 🐾 I teach predominantly online which works around people's lives, work schedules, childcare with siblings, and allowing pupils to learn from the comforts of their own home. I offer a trial lesson for free! In my music career I am a Senior manager for a National music education organisation in Scotland for disabled people, and I also sit on UK and International Boards advocating for music education. I wrote and published a recorder tutor book, Recorder Roundabout in 2008 which is a great fast track learning resource aimed to get children (or any age!) to grade 3 level in less than a year! I am also a member of the professional body, the Independent Society of Musicians. I obtained my BMus Honours Degree from University of Edinburgh in 2005. I am passionate about everyone having equal and equitable access to music! Over the years I've taught many students from beginner to university level, and have had students go on to study music at universities and Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. If you are interested in exams, I am happy to go down the routes of both ABRSM and Trinity.
In my personal view, the teaching of Music is paramount across primary and secondary schools. Over the period of lockdown, I have continued in giving online Music Theory lessons via Zoom to students and pupils in various parts of the UK. I currently privately teach syllabi from GCSE (AQA/Edexcel), International Baccalaureate, or EDUQAS examinations. In the virtual age that we currently live due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the method and delivery of teaching have significantly changed. In offering my services, I would provide a professional, safe, and supportive environment of learning where pupils and students will get the best out of learning the Music curriculum online. When it comes to teaching and delivering the subject, I am methodical, supportive, passionate, and enthusiastic in my teaching. I believe it is crucial that students and pupils receive good music education, and whilst not all things are possible and the face-to-face teaching due to Covid-19, I am determined to give the best music education I can despite the circumstances and deliver as music as the same classroom experience online. Music Qualifications & Achievements: Common Entrance Music – A GCSE Music (Edexcel/AQA) – A International Baccalaureate – 6/7 Student Incorporated Society of Musicians (SMISM) [2019] Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA) [2020] ABRSM Grade 5 Theory – Pass ABRSM Grade 8 Organ – Pass ABRSM Grade 5 Piano – Pass Currently reading for the BMus degree at University. I can cover first and second-year harmony (figured bass and more).
About piano lessons in Edinburgh
Edinburgh teachers offer thoughtful, encouraging lessons. You'll explore music that resonates with you, from classical to contemporary, and grow with steady, supportive guidance.
Teachers serve Edinburgh and the Lothians, with online lessons available.
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Piano lessons: what to expect
Great piano lessons combine structured technical development with repertoire that inspires you. Search by location to find local teachers for in-person tuition, or choose online lessons to access specialist tutors in your chosen style.
Piano suits learners of all ages — children, teens, adults and returning players. Lessons can be tailored to beginners, hobbyists, exam candidates, and aspiring performers.
Lessons focus on technique, rhythm, reading, ear training, and musical expression. Teachers create progressive plans so you consistently improve week-to-week.
Online lessons are effective for repertoire, theory and technique when recorded materials and clear audio/video setup are used. In-person lessons offer direct physical guidance and instrument-specific coaching.
A simple learning path for piano
A good teacher will tailor lessons to your goals — but here’s what progress often looks like.
Develop posture, hand position, basic sight-reading, simple scales and arpeggios, and a practice routine that builds consistent progress.
Expand technique with scales, arpeggios and exercises; learn pieces across styles and build expressive playing and musicality.
Refine interpretation, explore improvisation or accompaniment, and prepare confidently for exams, recitals, or studio sessions.
Getting started: what you need
Keep it simple at first — your teacher can help you choose the right setup.
- A reliable upright or digital piano with weighted keys is ideal — full-size 88-key preferred.
- Piano bench at the correct height helps maintain relaxed posture and technique.
- A metronome and a simple practice plan (20–40 minutes daily) yield far better results than occasional long sessions.
Styles & goals your teacher can support
Choose a direction — lessons can be tailored around what you actually want to play.
Technique, interpretation, sight-reading, and repertoire from Baroque to contemporary classical traditions.
Harmony, voicings, comping patterns, lead sheets, improvisation practice, and repertoire building.
Song accompaniment, chordal arrangements, studio-friendly techniques, and performance-ready repertoire.
Structured technical work, piece selection, sight-reading practice, and mock exam coaching for ABRSM, Trinity and other boards.
Popular cities for piano lessons
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Trust & safety
Parents and students should always feel confident asking about safeguarding, insurance, and lesson policies.
FAQs about piano lessons in Edinburgh
Yes — teachers can coach repertoire, technique, and musicianship with care.
Absolutely. Lessons start from first steps with patience.
Yes — these can be woven in gently alongside repertoire.
Short daily practice sessions (20–40 minutes) are more effective than infrequent long sessions. Your teacher will help design a routine suited to your goals.
Absolutely. Many adult learners progress quickly with consistent practice and a teacher who tailors lessons to adult learning styles.
A full-size 88-key instrument with weighted keys is ideal, but a good quality 61–76 key weighted keyboard can work for beginners. Your teacher can advise on suitable options.
Yes — many students successfully prepare for ABRSM, Trinity and other exams via online lessons when the teacher provides structured materials and targeted feedback.