Author: Susanna Cassam

Today’s featured new tutor is singing teacher Melissa. Singing lessons not only teach you how to use your voice as an instrument, but are a great way to improve confidence, musical knowledge and stage presence. Below you can find Melissa’s teaching profile, here you can find out about her teaching styles, influences, experiences and much more. Melissa is ready and waiting to take on new students, so please contact Susanna direct on 01273 504505/07720 771053 or email [email protected] to book your free into lesson.

Profile:

Melissa is a classically trained singer and professional singer/songwriter recently graduated from studying Music at the University of Sussex, where she gained a 1st in performance and film composition. In 2012 she released her debut album Beyond The Frame, and is currently working on her second album. As well as classical music, Melissa loves popular music, folk and musical theatre, and has had the privilege of working with some of the top West End performers and directors in the recent production Love Beyond at the Brighton Centre. She has also hosted numerous performances promoting her work as a songwriter, and her songs have featured on radio in Ireland over the past few years. Melissa loves inspiring people of all ages to be creative, whether in singing, composition, song writing or performance.  She is passionate about encouraging students to find their own unique style whilst teaching them to learn to love the spotlight. By tailoring lessons to suit each individual, Melissa helps to ensure students improve their vocal abilities whilst maintaining a fun and relaxed environment that enables them to  grow in confidence and enhance their performance skills.

Time for another piano teacher… todays featured new tutor is Sam. Sam is a very highly qualified music teacher and he teaches a broad range of styles. Below you can find Sam’s teaching profile, here you can find out about his teaching styles, influences, experiences and much more. Sam is ready and waiting to take on new students, so please contact Susanna direct on 01273 504505/07720 771053 or email [email protected] to book your free into lesson.

Profile:

Sam is a pianist, composer, singer-songwriter and teacher. He has a BA(hons) in Music from University of York (2009) and has Piano Teaching Certification from The European Piano Teachers Association (2009) and a Grade 8 Piano with Distinction (2004). Aside from his qualifications, both of his parents are musicians (composer/flautist and singer) so he grew up in a hugely musical environment. Sam been teaching piano privately, to all ages and abilities, for around 6 years. He also teaches Music and Performing Arts A-level at a local sixth form college. Sam has a lot of performing experience including being a finalist in national classical piano competitions and playing concerts abroad (USA and India). Outside of his classical background he also has experience in Jazz, Hip Hop, Pop, Musical Theatre, Folk, Motown, Latin-American Music and Electronic Music by playing in several bands and regularly collaborating with other musicians.

Sam’s lessons are designed around each individual student, based on their ability and the ways in which they learn most successfully, as well as their musical ambitions and interests. Lessons often include Composition, Improvisation, Technique, Theory, Sight-reading/Notation, Aural Training, Singing, Music History, Listening, Performances and Interpretation. The majority of his students play classical repertoire and half of these opt for taking exams and so far he has had a 100% pass rate with many getting merits and distinctions. As well as piano/theory/composition lessons Sam has worked with many instrumental teachers to help them improve their teaching.

Another brilliant multi instrumental teacher for today’s featured new tutor. Philip teaches 3 instruments, piano, guitar and singing. Philip also teaches songwriting… great for all those budding Ed Sheeran’s! Below you can find Philip’s teaching profile, here you can find out about his teaching styles, influences, experiences and much more. Philip is ready and waiting to take on new students, so please contact Susanna direct on 01273 504505/07720 771053 or email [email protected] to book your free into lesson.

Profile:

Philip is a multi-instrumental musician, singer, songwriter, improviser and composer. He trained at the University of London Goldsmiths College in Jazz & Popular Music, Musicianship and Music Workshop Skills; he has done postgraduate study in secondary school Music Education and is about to complete an MA in Participatory & Community Arts. He started teaching guitar over 20 years ago to adults and children, gradually expanding into teaching singing, piano, musicianship, songwriting and eventually becoming a workshop facilitator and community choir leader. Philip’s personal musical path has been about building his own self esteem, confidence, courage and self-discipline as well as studying the technical aspects of music. A lifelong musical path has given him the experience and understanding to be able to help students break through any creative blocks to find their unique musical and vocal self-expression.

Philip will  listen, and encourage you to explore and enjoy your musical journey. He offers ongoing encouragement, insights, positive feedback and creative ideas to inspire, motivate and build your confidence. He teaches essential technique, theory and how to use it, and help to correct bad habits, and to polish your skills and style. Learn your favourite music or compose your own; sing & play together; head for the stage or learn just for fun!

To start of this week we have a brilliant multi instrumental teacher, Claire. Claire is both a piano teacher and saxophone teacher. Less than a week now till the start of the school year, the perfect time to start thinking about your child’s music lessons. Below you can find Claire’s teaching profile, here you can find out about her teaching styles, influences, experiences and much more. Claire is ready and waiting to take on new students, so please contact Susanna direct on 01273 504505/07720 771053 or email [email protected] to book your free into lesson.

Profile:

Claire has been teaching music privately, in schools and adult education for over 25 years. She studied a music degree in Leeds and has a second degree in arts Management. As an Arts Development Officer at Rutland County Council, she set up music projects in schools and colleges to meet curriculum targets, and also ran projects across the community, with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. She moved to Brighton to be closer to her grown up children and to play classical and Jazz Saxophone in various different ensembles. She has a particular interest and passion for Jazz and improvisation but can teach all styles of Music. Her instruments are Saxophone and Piano and she is able to teach at her home or at pupil’s homes.

‘I am passionate about teaching music to both adults and children alike. There are many benefits that come from playing an instrument. It encourages learning and understanding across a range of subjects and for older people, it keeps the brain healthily active. It brings focus as well as enjoyment and when skills allow the student to play with other musicians, then a high degree of innate teamwork is developed. It is so much fun too!’

It’s a new violin teacher today, the brilliant Andrew! The violin is a great instrument for youngsters wanting to start music lessons, as they come in smaller sizes for smaller hands. Below you can find Andrew’s teaching profile, here you can find out about his teaching styles, influences, experiences and much more. Andrew is ready and waiting to take on new students, so please contact Susanna direct on 01273 504505/07720 771053 or email [email protected] to book your free into lesson.

Profile:

Andrew is a Grade 8 classically trained violinist and has recently graduated with a First-Class BAHons in Music and a Foundation Degree in Professional Musicianship from the University of Sussex. Andrew is very experienced in performing on the violin, mandolin, keyboards, guitar and voice for bands in the UK & Europe as well as in session work. These experiences have broadened his musical approach and enable him to teach in both classical and modern traditions. He also has Grade 6 music theory and has composed for film and adverts. Accommodating to the needs of both parent and pupil, Andrew aims to provide a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere for learning.

The lovely Sofie is today’s featured new tutor, she has come on board with us a a piano teacher. The piano is a great starting point for anyone looking to start music lessons and also works as a great second instrument for anyone already learning a musical instrument. Below you can find Sofie’s teaching profile, here you can find out about her teaching styles, influences, experiences and much more. Sofie is ready and waiting to take on new students, so please contact Susanna direct on 01273 504505/07720 771053 or email [email protected] to book your free into lesson.

Profile:

Today as part of SCMT’S new tutor feature we have piano teacher Al. The piano is a very popular instrument and is very versatile, a great choice for someone who wants to start music lessons. Below you can find Al’s teaching profile, here you can find out about his teaching styles, influences, experiences and much more. Al is ready and waiting to take on new students, so please contact Susanna direct on 01273 504505/07720 771053 or email [email protected] to book your free into lesson.

Profile:

Al has been playing piano for over 20 years taking an interest in Jazz Piano for the last 10 years. He values the depths of melody, rhythm & harmony, the three main aspects in music. He’s been playing professionally for many years gaining experience playing a mix of Jazz,Soul,Pop,Funk & Blues. Improvisation has been at the forefront with the majority of gigs being jazz led.

Having taught pupils ranging from age 7 to 60 years of age, he can adapt to the individual needs of the student & tailor lessons to suit you. Depending on your style, he’ll try to help you progress in that chosen field where possible.

Hopefully everyone had a restful bank holiday. Not long till the start of the new school year, when many parents are looking to start music lessons for their children. A common instrument is the voice. Today as part of SCMT’S new tutor feature we have singing teacher Sally!  Below you can find her teaching profile, here you can find out about her teaching styles, influences, experiences and much more. Sally is ready and waiting to take on new students, so please contact Susanna direct on 01273 504505/07720 771053 or email [email protected] to book your free into lesson.

Profile: 

Sally is a welcoming and experienced singing teacher, dedicated to helping her students achieve their goals and grow in self confidence.  She has been teaching since 2000, ranging from private 1-2-1 lessons, to teaching vocal lessons in schools and colleges.  She is very dedicated to perfecting her craft and has achieved a diploma in Popular Music Performance at Vocaltech Vocal School where she was crowned ‘Performer of The Year’. She is a certified CoreSinging(TM) teacher and has a BA (Hons) in Professional Musicianship from the Brighton Institute of Modern Music. Sally has also been lucky enough to train with Vocal Process and other leading name voice practitioners.  As well as teaching, Sally is a keen songwriter and session vocalist. She has written and produced two original albums and continues to write for other artists such as previous X Factor finalists. As a session vocalist, Sally has recorded vocals for leading karaoke companies and radio jingles.

Today as part of SCMT’S new tutor feature we have another piano teacher, the brilliant Annalies!  Below you can find her teaching profile, here you can find out about her teaching styles, influences, experiences and much more. It’s drawing ever closer to the start of a new school year, when many parents are looking to start music lessons for their children. Annalies is ready and waiting to take on new students, so please contact Susanna direct on 01273 504505/07720 771053 or email [email protected] to book your free into lesson.

Profile:

Annalies is a classically trained Pianist, who has just graduated from the University of Sussex in Anthropology. Alongside her passion for classical and jazz piano, she also loves to sing, which regularly takes her out onto the streets of Brighton to busk! Her approach towards lessons is one of fun and flexibility, learning to adapt lessons to the individual learning style of the student in order that each child gains the most out of their lessons. With music lessons having being a key part of her own childhood, she appreciates how an encouraging teacher, who also teaches good techniques early on, is crucial to the progress and enjoyment of the student. Enjoyment is key so that a long-lasting passion for the instrument is developed.

This month SCMT are featuring our new tutors in place of our normal ‘Composer/Musician of the Month’ feature. First up we have the lovely Louisa (pictured). Louisa has come on board with us as a piano teacher. Below you can find her teaching profile, here you can find out about her teaching styles, influences, experiences and much more. If you or someone you know would like to book in your free intro lesson with Louisa please contact Susanna direct on 01273 504505/07720 771053 or email [email protected]

Profile:

Louisa’s pupils always praise her for her relaxed and friendly approach to teaching, putting the nervous at ease and ensuring everyone walks out of her class with a smile on their face and a sense of achievement. Louisa enjoys teaching all styles of music, from Classical to Blues, and has performed in Jazz, Gypsy, Country, Swing, Latin and Klezmer bands. Her 20 years experience in teaching adults and children have taught her that everyone learns in different ways, enjoys playing different music, and has different personal goals when learning an instrument, so Louisa tailors each individual pupil’s course of study to match their personality.

Alongside learning your instrument Louisa’s classes also include learning a variety of techniques and ‘short-cuts’ that will make it easy to start playing the music you want to learn straight away. If desired, lessons can include learning improvisation skills, practising composition, and improving note-reading fluency, as well as learning band skills so you can feel confident playing with other people. She is happy preparing students for exams, or simply playing just for fun.

SCMT are very pleased to announce that Jo (piano teacher) and Jinny (piano and violin teacher) have come on board with us. You can see their picture below and read their teaching profile on our teachers page. Don’t forget we will be featuring all of our new tutors in detail over the next few weeks.

Here at SCMT we are very excited to have had 12 new tutors come on board to work with us. They have all been added to our teachers page and we have briefly introduced you to them in our news blogs. Over the next couple of weeks we will be looking at each one in depth. Finding out about their teaching styles, musical interests and how to book in a lesson with them… so watch his space!

We are delighted to announce that Melissa (singing teacher), Zara (singing teacher) and Matt (trumpet teacher) are all coming on board with us. You can see their pictures below and find their full profile on our teachers page. Please get in touch if you would like lessons with Melissa, Zara, Matt or any of our other teachers.

Igor Stravinsky is SCMT’s Composer/Musician of the Month, in this blog we take a look at the later years of his composing career.

Stravinsky started his career writing ballet scores and then moved forward to a neoclassical period, but from the 1950s his writing took a different turn. He started to use serial techniques and moved into the serial genre.

Serial music is a genre of music that uses a pattern or series that is repeated over and over again, it can be notes, dynamics, articulation, rhythms and much more.

The technique that Stravinsky is most commonly associated with is dodecaphony or twelve-tone technique. It uses the 12 notes of the chromatic scale in a tone row (specific order of notes) and repeats them over and over again in the same order.

His works at this time included:

Agon – One of Stravinsky’s first experiments with serial techniques.

Canticum Sacrum – A composition based on a tone row.

Threni – Contains the twelve-tone technique

The Flood – Using text from biblical texts and theatrical plays.

We are delighted to introduce to you Claire, Philip and Amy (all pictured below), three new tutors that have come onboard with us. Please see our teachers page for their full profile. Throughout August we will be featuring each new tutor individually, so watch this space!

This month SCMT are featuring Russian composer Igor Stravinsky. In our last blog we covered his ballet years, through the early 1900s. But what came next?

In his early career Stravinsky wrote many ballet scores but from the 1920s he moved forward while at the same time looking back. He wrote symphonies, concertos and operas using form, structures, instrumentation, and themes that were used in the Baroque and Classical periods.

His famous works from this period included:

Pulcinella – A ballet score that took structure and instrumentation  from the Baroque era and is even thought to have been based on a Baroque composition.

Symphonies of Wind Instruments – Using form and structure used in the Classical period.

Orpheus – Using classical form, structure and instrumentation and looking back at the classical theme of Greek mythology.

Here at SCMT HQ we want to say a massive congratulations to all those who passed their ABRSM exams this term! We had a brilliant set of results.. passes, merits and distinctions!

What a brilliant close to the summer term. Well done on all your hard work guys and we must not forget… well done to all our tutors for all their hard work too!

Here at SCMT we are delighted to announce we have 6 new tutors come on board with us. Louisa, Annalies, Sally, Al, Sofie and Andrew (all pictured below) will all be teaching with us and you can find their profiles and picture on the teachers page of our website. Over the next week we will be featuring each new tutor individually and getting to know them a little better… watch this space!

This month SCMT are featuring the brilliant Igor Stravinsky. Stravinsky first found fame as a composer for the Russian ballet. His three most famous works are The Firebird (1910),  Petrushka (1911) and The Rite of Spring (1913). These three works became renowned, not only in the ballet music world but also the music world in general.

The third ballet, The Rite of Spring, however was the most revolutionary. It used rhythmic ideas never seen in the world of ballet before. There were changes in time signature, tempo and off beat rhythms that lead the way for a change, again not only in the ballet music world but also the music world in general.

Even in his early career Stravinsky really was a forward thinking composer, leading the way for new compositional techniques and ideas.