Louise Turnbull Piano Tuition

With a decade of experience teaching pupils of all ages, I believe strongly in the moto " you are never too old to learn." Through an individualised, pupil centred approach, I aim to create a nurturing learning environment, allowing students to achieve their goals and become acquainted with a vast range of musical genres. I use a variety of books and resources within my lessons, including my own arrangements of contemporary music, expanding students technical knowledge, while also keeping them engaged. I even work with students to create their own musical arrangements for the piano, engaging them in learning musical theory without even realising it. 

Having learnt piano since the age of 7, music has always been a passion of mine, and an integral part of my life. Whilst raising my family, I pursued an Open University Bachelor of Science Honours degree, centred on the study of music, education and the psychology of child development. Around this time, I decided I wanted to pursue piano as my long term career, with the aim to create an encouraging environment for even the most nervous of students. 

As a parent with children who have actively learnt instruments from a young age, I have a good understanding of the demands placed on both children and parents alike when it comes to home practice, and have realistic expectations on time management and encouragement levels. From continuing education later on in life, I also can empathise with adult learners as I know just how daunting it can be to undertake learning a new skill. 

The distance learning format of the Open University has made me very confident in online learning, so when the pandemic hit I quickly adapted my piano lessons to a new virtual learning format. Throughout the pandemic I also continued my own musical studies, achieving a Maters of Arts in Music, acquiring skills used by musicologists and ethnomusicologists to enhance my independent teaching style. I strongly believe in the importance of continuing my own learning journey through different mediums such as courses and masterclasses, as I believe that a passion for life long learning from the teacher, creates a more dynamic learning environment for the pupil.  

Qualifications

• Masters of Arts in Music (Open University).
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) Open (Open University) which includes music, education, and child development.
• ABRSM Grade 8 piano.
• ABRSM Grade 5 theory. 
• Certificate in Working Together for Children (Open University). 
• Certificate in Becoming A Better Music Teacher (ABRSM).
• Child Protection Awareness (NSPCC).
• Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service Certificate that is updated annually. 
• Continuing Professional Development, Assessing Musical Performance Webinar, ABRSM (as a life long learner myself, I like to attend regular online Masterclasses from highly regarded pedagogists).