Hi, I’m Kate:
I'm the piano teacher at Upbeat Piano.
I hold an Associate of the Royal Schools of Music Diploma in Piano Performance (distinction), a Diploma of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music in piano teaching, and have completed a course in piano teaching through the Royal Conservatory of Music (teaching beginner and elementary piano) with a mark of 100%.
I also have an enhanced DBS.
More information
I began playing the piano at primary school, passed my grade 8 more than 20 years ago, and started teaching others to play a couple of years ago after completing my ABRSM piano performance diploma. I have studied the art of teaching piano since attending a set of ABRSM/EPTA lectures on the subject, and have an ABRSM diploma in instrumental teaching (piano). I'm a member of multiple piano teacher communities, and I have a treasure trove of pedagogically sound games and creative activities to use in lessons which are not just fun, but also educational!
I am a creative, organised, kind and patient teacher. My background in addition to music has been a degree and career in healthcare, and I find it fascinating how much effect music can have on our bodies, including benefits to mental health, and even reducing pain perception. For those who learn to play as children, there is evidence it speeds the development of speech and reading skills, and trains focusing attention for sustained periods, thus helping with attainment in other subjects at school.
"Don't just learn to play, play to learn"
- Forrest Kinney
Get in touch
Please get in touch and chat with me about what you would like to learn, and we can discuss how I can help you. Perhaps you are returning to piano after learning years ago, or have tried to learn through books or an app. I can help you work out what standard you are at, and make a plan with you for how you can get to where you would like to be. Lessons will cover (amongst others) reading notation, healthy technique, improvising, sight reading and ear training.
"Kate is an amazing teacher. She is patient and engaging. She is constantly devising ways to make learning the piano fun and interactive. It is obvious that she is very experienced in this field and my son enjoys each and every lesson."
- Sue, mum of a student at Upbeat Piano School