Why have private lessons?
Obviously this is a personal choice, and the availability of music lessons in schools is very important. Advantages of private lessons are that pupils can have individual lessons, and longer in duration. (Many schools can only offer 20 minute group lessons.) I can carry on with lessons during the holidays if desired, which is a particular advantage in the summer. There is also more opportunity for parents to be involved, and hopefully to sit in on some lessons.
Where do the lessons take place?
I teach in the “music room” in my house in Mottingham, SE9. (This is on the edge of Bromley borough, near to Eltham.)
When are the lessons?
For children at school, I mainly teach at the weekend. If preferred, I can give after-school lessons during the week. For any children who are home-schooled, and adults who aren’t working during the day, I prefer to arrange lessons during school hours. This leaves more time to accommodate students who are at school or work at this time, and also leaves me more time to be mum to my son!
How much does it cost?
For young children under the age of eight, I recommend 30 minute lessons. From age 8 upwards, I like to give 45 minute lessons, especially if preparing for exams, which means I will be doing aural training and sightreading practise. For students preparing for the more advanced exam grades, ideally lessons will be one hour. I charge £20 for 30 mins, £30 for 45 mins, and £40 for an hour.
Where can I get a violin?
If you are looking for a violin for a child, please don’t buy one until you have had help with finding the correct size!
Reid’s of Bromley, 216 High Street, Bromley, Kent BR1 1PW sell violins, and also has a string specialist and repair service. http://www.reidsmusicbromley.co.uk
Normans Music, 32 Well Hall Road, Eltham, London SE9 6SF sells violins suitable for beginners and the early grades. http://www.normans.co.uk
If you would like to hire a violin then I would recommend T.A. Craig, 31 High Street, Sevenoaks, Kent. TN13 1JD. http://craigviolins.com
From me! Sometimes I have violins for sale, so it is worth asking if I have anything suitable. I don’t deal for profit, but I will buy violins to sell on to pupils when the opportunity arises.
If you are looking for a more high-end instrument, you could try https://www.stringersmusic.com/london or http://www.guivier.com