Ashley Kingsley

I’m Ashley Kingsley, a professional pianist and experienced piano teacher based in Brighton. I teach children, teenagers and adults, from complete beginners through to advanced players.

Lessons are friendly and personalised around the individual. Whether you want to learn classical piano, pop, jazz, improve your reading, explore chords and improvisation, or work towards graded exams, I tailor lessons around your musical interests and goals.

For beginners and younger students, I believe in building strong foundations in reading music, rhythm and technique, while also making sure they are learning music they genuinely enjoy. Lessons should be structured, but they should also be something students look forward to each week.

Music notation is a unique language, so it’s important to understand the basics of this in order to lay down the foundations of your practise. I vastly encourage learning to play the music that interests you. In fact, I feel it’s mandatory to learn songs you love – after all, that’s why you’re learning right?

I want every student to feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes. I give clear, encouraging feedback and help students understand not just what to practise, but how to practise effectively between lessons.

Supporting Younger Students:

I keep parents up to date with every lesson. I encourage parents to observe lessons if they wish and to help with productive practise for their children. I also take notes on every lesson which can then be emailed to parents.

A Relaxed & Encouraging Approach:

Lessons are relaxed, friendly and encouraging. My aim is to make students feel comfortable at the piano, build their confidence and help them enjoy making music — whether they’re learning purely for pleasure or working towards a specific goal.

Exam Preparation

I prepare students for ABRSM, Trinity and Rockschool piano exams, from the early grades through to Grade 8. Exam preparation can include repertoire, scales, sight-reading, aural skills and theory where required. I have a 100% exam pass rate, while still making sure lessons remain enjoyable and musical.

Music Qualifications & Achievements:

• Masters in Composition for screen from Royal College 0f Music
• I’ve composed Music for many Music Library companies and 2 feature films in US, I’ve also done full orchestration for Beverley Knight for Andrea Bocelli European tour 2018

As a session pianist, I’ve played for numerous artists including:

• Beverley Knight (20 Years – world, support tours including Prince, Bryan Adams, Carlos Santana, Jamiroquai, Take That)
• Jimmy Cliff (2003 tour)
• Chris Rea (2000 world tour)