Private Music Lessons with Nikki
​
I have been teaching for over twenty years, guiding children and adults through the various stages of learning from beginner to Diploma Level.
I support students through graded examinations in piano - jazz or classical and music theory using the Trinity syllabus. I also draw on my experience as a keyboard player and vocalist in bands across the UK and France to offer Trinity Rock & Pop Exam preparation to Grade 8. This will help you develop confidence, build a contemporary repertoire as used in many bands, and for vocalists, develop range, tone quality and security in intonation.
I run workshops in composition for all ages, beginner to advanced, including preparation for application to composition degrees at conservatoire level.
My blog on Technical Work for the Trinity Piano exams was published in 2018.
​
​
​
As an examiner for Trinity, specialising in the Rock & Pop syllabus, I have training in the marking and assessment, which helps students in preparing for their own exams throughout the year.
PERFORMANCE:
Each Autumn, students are invited to perform at an informal concert, sharing their work and own compositions developed throughout the year. This is a friendly event, often ending in a jam session.
​
Piano
From beginner to Diploma standard including preparation for university or conservatoire courses.
Classical, Rock & Pop, Jazz styles covered
Preparation for Trinity Classical Exams or Trinity Rock & Pop
​
Vocals
Learn to sing with confidence, develop technique and repertoire. Vocal projection, breath control, microphone technique. Also supporting piano/vocalists in delivery and independence in performance.
Preparation for Trinity Rock & Pop exams.
Composition
As a student here, everyone has a go at composing. Right from the outset, students will write much of their early material with plenty of support from Nikki. All students are encouraged to compose one of their exam pieces for Trinity College London or Trinity Rock & Pop exams. We are currently working with Trinity to develop the teaching and delivery of 'Own Compositions'
Assistance in GCSE or A level composition offered, using Sibelius software
​
Keyboards
Learn to groove, follow chord symbols, perform a keyboard solo, play as part of a rhythm section or along to backing tracks. Join our workshops to experience playing with a professional rhythm section.
Preparation for Trinity Rock & Pop Exams
Theory
Music Theory underpins the learning of any style of music. Theory is integral in all of our music lessons. Exams can be taken through Trinity College London or ABRSM
Arranging
As a stand-alone skill, or within your compositions, lessons in arranging for your instrument or ensemble are offered. We have had some great results from students, creating a wide range of scores and recordings to be shared. Assistance in GCSE or A level arranging offered, using Sibelius software
Lesson Fees 2024
Individual Lessons £60/hour
pro rata for 45 minute lessons.
​
Diploma students £75/hour
​
Group Composition Lessons , 2 hours:
£40 per student
minimum 4 attendees (maximum 6)
​
Lessons can be paid individually
or via monthly invoice, payable in advance,
Invoices will be sent including details
for payment via internet banking.
Students come to me (RH1 6HE) for lessons. We are accessible by car, rail and bus.
Unfortunately, we do not have disabled access, with steps to the music room.
​
I teach music in a holistic sense, to develop a student's understanding of music alongside learning to read written notation and developing techniques of playing or singing. I encourage composition and playing by ear from the early stages, incorporating many styles of music to all students. If you wish to concentrate on jazz or blues repertoire, I enjoy teaching the principles of groove and feel. If you wish to take exams, I can support you through the graded system. Much of your repertoire, especially at an early stage, will be written for you, or by you (with my support).
If you don't want to follow the grade system, I encourage all types of learning. The most important thing is that you are achieving what you want from your lessons - I'm just here to guide you!
I would say my speciality is in re-training adults who learned as a child and in inspiring teenagers who may have lost interest in music lessons, but who want to give it 'one more try'. Lessons are offered to all ages, though I advise that young children have basic literacy and numeracy skills.
Each student will receive digital notes via email or file sharing after their lesson, including goals, timetables and links to reference material. This allows students, parents and myself to keep a clear focus on practice and progress.