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Ever since being a child, I have been absolutely obsessed with the piano. I remember vividly listening to Brahms' Waltz in A-Flat Major on a little toy that my mum gave me and I was just fascinated by the beautiful sounds. This intrigue led me on an incredible musical journey.
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From the age of 8 years old, I started formal piano lessons with my first teacher, Shirley Aylesbury, in Askern, Doncaster. Shirley was a fantastic teacher, guiding me through much of the foundations of a secure piano technique.
After many enjoyable years with Shirley, I naturally moved onto my second piano teacher, Mr Craig Laszkowicz. Craig entered me for an array of music competitions and other music events and inspired me so much. Throughout my lessons, Craig also introduced me to many great composers, including
J. S. Bach, Franz Schubert, Frédéric Chopin, and many more. After achieving an ABRSM Grade 8 (distinction) with Craig, I moved onto the next stage of my musical career.
My Story
My First Teacher
Craig Laszkowicz
Next Steps
After some success in a handful of local music competitions, I worked hard in my A-Level Music qualification which propelled me towards the next stage of my career.
In September 2013, I commenced studying at the University of York, taking on a
BA (Hons) Degree in Music. Throughout my three years at York, I was immersed in a wide variety of music and ideas and I loved every single minute of it! I was able to refine my skills as a pianist and teacher and was also kindly invited to perform in many concerts. One of the highlights of my degree was at the end of my first year when I played Schubert's Impromptu in G-flat Major to a sold-out Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall. Please find the recording below.
I met some incredible people along the way, one special person in particular being Joan Dixon. Joan guided me through some difficult repertoire - combining brutal honesty as well as kindness along the way! I really did enjoy my piano lessons with Joan and still miss them very much.
Graduation Day
It was a very proud day to graduate from the University of York after many hours of hard work. Some highlights include:
.Performing in the Royal Albert Hall
.Graduation Day itself with my family
.Gaining a BA (Hons) degree!
Ranby House School & Nursery
My very first professional piano teaching role was at a school called Ranby House, a wonderful primary school based in Ranby, Retford. This education hub gave me ample opportunity to work with some incredibly talented young musicians, preparing them for concerts, exams, and other exciting musical events.
Bootham Junior School
After two dedicated years at Ranby House, I now teach piano at the incredible Quaker-lead school, Bootham Junior School, based in York. Bootham Junior School is a powerhouse of a school, crammed with talented teachers and young students all honing their individual crafts. I feel very luck to hold the position of Peripatetic Piano Teacher.
Hill House School
As of September 2024, a new job role opened up at Hill House School in Auckley,
Doncaster.
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With approximately 800 students,
Hill House School is a
co-educational independent day
school for pupils from the ages of
3 to 18. In 2012, Hill House was
named 'Independent School
of the Year' at the independent
school awards. I am sure that I
will thoroughly enjoy working at
both the Junior and Senior schools.
