Christchurch
Guitar Lessons | Banjo Lessons, Ukulele Lessons | Theory Lessons, Jazz Improvisation Lessons, Online Lessons
Bio
I’ve been playing guitar for over 35 years and began teaching after completing my music degree at Middlesex University, London, in 2007. Since then, teaching has been a central part of my musical life alongside performing and working within recognised examination pathways.
I work with both children and adults who want to grow as confident, capable musicians — whether that means learning favourite songs, preparing for exams, or developing their own musical style. Lessons are tailored to the individual and cover acoustic, electric, classical and bass guitar, as well as banjo, across styles including rock, blues, fingerstyle, folk, jazz and bluegrass.
I’m the New Zealand representative for the London College of Music (LCM) and organise LCM examinations nationally and am the first point of contact for anyone looking to become an LCM guitar tutor or enter themselves or their students for face-to-face exams.
Alongside guitar, I specialise in Clawhammer Banjo and have been playing it for the past 15 years, teaching bluegrass for the last five. Over the years I’ve performed in a wide range of bands — from cover groups to jazz ensembles — and given many solo fingerstyle performances in the UK.
In lessons we focus on strong foundations and technique, rhythm, understanding chords and scales, ear training and musical confidence so students learn to understand what they’re playing, not simply copy it. Lessons are structured but relaxed, with steady progress and a genuine love of music at the centre.
Teaching is based from my Christchurch studio.
Teaching Info
Teaching music has always been a genuine passion of mine. I enjoy seeing students progress — from their very first notes on guitar or banjo to confidently playing the riff or song they’ve always wanted to master.
Lessons are engaging and focused, always built around clear goals based on what each student wants to achieve. The feedback I receive from students and parents consistently highlights a friendly, encouraging approach combined with steady, structured progress.
Alongside learning songs, we develop the essential skills every guitarist or banjo player needs — understanding rhythm and technique, training the ear to work things out independently, and even learning how to turn musical ideas into original pieces. The aim is not just to play songs, but to build confident, independent musicians with their own musical voice.
Students receive professionally prepared music and TAB, created using Sibelius and Guitar Pro 8. I also provide targeted exercises and backing tracks to support technique, lead playing and improvisation, helping progress happen naturally and efficiently.