Christchurch

Guitar Lessons | Banjo Lessons, Ukulele Lessons | Theory Lessons, Jazz Improvisation Lessons, Online Lessons

Qualifications: BA (Hons) Music (Jazz), London College of Music LLCM, ALCM, DipLCM (TD), Grade 8 Distinction in Music Theory, Electric, Acoustic, Bass and Classical guitar.
Pricing: Weekly Lessons $80-1hr, $60-45min and $40-30min , Duo Lessons $50-30min, Casual lessons $80-1hr.
Styles: Acoustic, Blues, Rock, Latin, Country, Jazz, Slide, Modern Fingerstyle, Classical, Clawhammer Banjo, Bluegrass Banjo
Suitability: All ages and levels welcomed

Bio

I’ve been playing guitar for over 35 years and began teaching after completing my music degree at Middlesex University, London, in 2007.

I’m the New Zealand representative for the London College of Music (LCM) and the Registry of Guitar Tutors (RGT). I organise LCM exams and am the first point of contact if you’re looking to become an LCM guitar tutor or enter yourself or a student for face-to-face exams.

I’m a fully registered tutor with both RGT and LCM and have been a member since 2007.

I’m also an accomplished banjo player and have been playing Clawhammer Banjo for the past 15 years. Over the last 5 years, I’ve been teaching Bluegrass as well.

During my time as a guitarist, I was a finalist in the Admira International Young Classical Guitarist of the Year competition. I’ve played in a wide range of bands, from cover groups to jazz ensembles, and have performed countless solo fingerstyle gigs across the UK.

Teaching Info

Teaching music has always been a real passion of mine. I love seeing my students progress—from their very first steps on guitar or banjo to finally nailing that riff or song they’ve always wanted to play.

I make each lesson fun and engaging, always with a clear goal based on what the student wants to achieve. The feedback I get from students and parents is consistently positive, especially regarding my friendly and encouraging teaching approach.

I also make sure to include all the essential skills a guitarist or banjo player needs—whether it’s figuring out a song by ear or composing something original from the ideas in their head. Every lesson includes a focus on these core skills, helping each student develop their own musical voice and style.

You’ll receive professionally prepared music and TAB sheets, created using Sibelius and Guitar Pro 8. I also provide exercises tailored to help you reach your goals faster, along with backing tracks to practice lead playing or improvisation.