Welcome to
Piano Lessons Herne Hill
I'm Louise Macphail, and I am happy to provide personalised piano lessons to students of all ages and skill levels. Together, we'll take it one step at a time, tailoring each session to your abilities and goals.
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Lessons Tailored To You
I’m a professional musician who specialises in guitar, music theory, singing, piano and songwriting. I play in an alternative / indie rock band but have experience playing both classical and jazz guitar. I am passionate about teaching and I have experience of tutoring people of different ages with varying abilities, both in person and over zoom in preparation for formal music exams and also on a more casual basis. I always ask my pupils to make me a playlist of their favourite songs and then from that I create lesson plans based around their interests in music.
Prices
£30 per 1/2 hour, £50 per hour
Piano Teacher
Louise MacphailLocation
Playfield Cres, London SE22 8QR, UK
Get in touch to find out more.
Find out more about my piano lessons, as well as book your first piano lesson.
Learn Proper Piano Techniques
My lessons are designed to break down techniques in an approachable and easy-to-follow way. For younger beginners, I focus on building coordination and rhythm through fun and interactive activities. For advanced players, we can work on refining dynamics, articulation, and expression. I always strive to meet you where you are, whether you're looking to play classical pieces, jazz, or simply your favorite songs.
Scales, arpeggios, and exercises are often seen as the building blocks of piano technique, and I incorporate these into lessons in a way that feels both practical and rewarding. Rather than just drills, I integrate these elements into your playing, showing how they directly apply to real music. You'll develop dexterity and precision naturally while deepening your understanding of the instrument's mechanics.
Prices:
£30 per 1/2 hour
£40 per 3/4 hour
£50 per hour
Lessons are weekly, fortnightly or as suits you.
Advice for New Students
Professional Piano Teacher in Herne Hill
When you join me for piano lessons in Herne Hill, you can look forward to a personalised piano lesson plan that caters to your unique interests and abilities. I believe in teaching composition alongside practical skills, helping you explore the world of music in a way that’s both engaging and inspiring. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an advanced player looking to fine-tune your skills, our lessons will be tailored to your individual journey.
Learning Different Styles
As a teacher at Piano Lessons Herne Hill, I am passionate about not only classic genres but also teaching students how to play jazz, pop, and even hip hop. This great range of styles helps students learn music that resonates with their personal tastes, making music a rewarding experience.
Developing Skills and Abilities
In our weekly sessions, you can expect to advance not just in playing the instrument, but also in music theory and sight reading. I equip my students with a solid foundation that supports their growth into competent musicians capable of handling various musical challenges. You’ll gain the tools you need to explore music composition and possibly even arrange songs you love. My hope is that, through this journey, you’ll not only enjoy playing but also discover the many benefits of understanding music deeply.
Encouraging Creativity and Imagination
Throughout our time together, I strive to foster an environment that encourages your creativity and imagination. I enjoy teaching a wide range of ages and I adapt my approach to suit each pupil’s learning style. My goal is to create a space where music becomes more than just notes on a page—it becomes a way to express yourself and connect with the world around you. I look forward to embarking on this musical journey with you and helping you make the most of your piano tuition.
Weekly Lessons Looking at All Genres
Classical Mastery
At Piano Lessons Herne Hill, I always find that classical music serves as an incredible foundation for building technical abilities. I teach each student the beauty of composers like Bach, Beethoven, and Chopin, aiming to refine your technique and expression. Understanding classical pieces helps students master the intricacies of the instrument and enhances their music theory knowledge profoundly.
Jazz and Improvisation
For those intrigued by the spontaneity of music, jazz offers a whole new world to explore. My passion for jazz allows me to teach composition and improvise alongside my students, creating a fun and engaging learning atmosphere. Jazz isn't just about notes; it's about feeling the music. By participating in weekly lessons focused on jazz, students develop their ability to think creatively and expressively.
Pop and Contemporary Styles
Pop and contemporary styles form an essential part of our piano lessons here in Herne Hill. These styles resonate with many students as they reflect the music of today, the songs they love on the radio, and the latest hits. I enjoy guiding students through the process of playing popular songs, helping them understand how these pieces are written and performed.
Hip Hop and Modern Beats
Venturing into the world of hip hop on the piano is a unique experience. The rhythmic and percussive characteristics of this genre can be explored with our personalised lesson plan, blending traditional techniques with modern musical trends. Whether you're learning to play iconic hooks or accompany ensembles, this genre promises excitement and innovation.
Performing and Sharing Music
Beyond learning the notes, playing the piano gives students in Herne Hill and beyond the chance to perform and share their music. Whether you perform solo or in ensembles, playing different styles develops your confidence and ability to communicate through music. It’s all about harnessing your passion for music and letting it shine, regardless of your age—with lessons made to guide your journey in music.
My Teaching Style
As a teacher, my goal is to create an enjoyable atmosphere for piano lessons in Herne Hill while ensuring my students grasp all the essential skills needed to become proficient musicians. I believe that when lessons are fun, students become more engaged and motivated, leading to better learning outcomes. Each lesson is designed to balance enjoyment with rigorous training, ensuring you gain technical prowess alongside musical appreciation.
Focus on Essential Techniques and Theory
Every student, from beginners to seasoned players, progresses through a detailed curriculum that covers instrument technique, music theory, and song work. I emphasise the importance of understanding and mastering these fundamentals, as they form the building blocks upon which more complex abilities are built. By integrating theory within practical sessions, my students gain a comprehensive understanding that fuels their passion to explore deeper musical elements.
Building Practice Routines
An integral part of our journey together involves constructing robust practice routines tailored to your personal schedule and skill level. I work with each student to develop a routine that not only fits their lifestyle but also optimally leverages their innate abilities. This approach ensures consistent progress week over week, making learning both methodical and rewarding.
Personal Connection and Adaptation
I cherish the personal connection established through teaching—it's a great privilege to guide pupils of varying ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Understanding that each person is unique, I adapt my teaching methods to suit individual learning styles. By crafting a learning space that is both nurturing and challenging, I aim to unlock each student's full potential, encouraging them to explore new facets of music beyond just written notes.
Encouraging Lifelong Learning and Passion
Ultimately, my courses for piano lessons in Herne Hill are about more than just playing an instrument; they're about instilling a lifelong love for music. My hope is that, as my students learn more, they become inspired to continue their musical journey, enjoying the artistry and creativity music brings to life. Whether it's mastering a complex composition, transitioning from other instruments, or exploring new genres, I've taught loads of students like you & I'm here to support and empower your musical growth in London and beyond.
When it comes to learning the piano, mastering proper technique is key to becoming a confident and expressive player. I create a supportive environment where you feel encouraged to ask questions and experiment with your playing. Learning proper techniques is a collaborative process, and I ensure that every step feels rewarding and suited to your pace. Whether you're a complete beginner or seeking to refine years of experience, I'm here to help you unlock your full potential at the piano.
Frequently Asked Questions
Children can start piano lessons as early as age 5, but many teachers recommend starting formal lessons around age 7 to ensure readiness.
Yes, piano lessons are worth it for adults. They offer cognitive benefits, a creative outlet, and a rewarding sense of achievement, regardless of age or skill level.
Yes, you can learn to play piano after 30. While some things may become more difficult as we age, playing piano is not one of them.
Taking piano lessons once a week is common and effective, but frequency can be adjusted based on individual goals and availability. If you're looking to buy your own piano then please do check out Markson Pianos located at 7-8, Chester Court, Albany St, London NW1 4BU.
Learning to play the piano can take a few months to a few years, depending on practice consistency, individual aptitude, and the complexity of pieces being learned.
Playfield Cres, London SE22 8QR, UK Full teaching address will be provided upon first lesson booking.
Location
Teacher
Louise MacphailFind out more about my piano lessons and how to book your first session.
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