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From a certain point of view, learning to play the piano is simply a question of translating blobs on the page (sheet music/notation) into movements of the fingers and hands etc. Bach himself said as much. He also emphasised the fact that if anyone worked as hard as he did, they would achieve the same results.
While some lucky people seem to have an innate facility with the piano, for most it is more a question of intelligent application over years, involving patient, determined practice and the encouragement and guidance of a teacher.
But it mustn’t be joyless, dutiful work – this is music after all! While essential techniques cannot be side-stepped, students must be encouraged to enjoy their practice, to experiment, to improvise, and ultimately to become their own teacher. My main job is to help students learn how to practice on their own, as they spend a lot more time at the piano on their own than with me by their side (I hope!).
I started learning from my Dad, aged about 7, though went on to become more involved in brass bands, playing trombone. But the piano was the instrument I kept coming back to, particularly in adult life.
I have had some great teachers who have inspired me to continue to develop my skills, and helped me pass all my exams with distinction, most recently the ATCL performance diploma. Currently I am studying with Duncan Glenday who is helping me prepare for the next diploma exam (yikes!).
I love the sound of a piano and its versatility – it really is like having an orchestra at one’s fingertips. I very much lean towards the classical repertoire but also enjoy contemporary music.
Throughout my adult life I have also practiced Buddhism – in fact Ajay is my Buddhist name. Although I make no claims to being an accomplished practitioner I do think some of its core values have seeped into me over the years and contribute to my teaching: awareness, clarity, kindness, sensitivity, concentration, perhaps even a little friendliness…
I am a mobile piano teacher, thus I come to you and teach in the comfort of your own home. Based in Todmorden, I teach in the following areas:
Calderdale, Todmorden, Hebden Bridge, Littleborough, Milnrow, Oldham, Shaw, Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside, Mossley, Stalybridge, Greenfield, Uppermill, Saddleworth, Audenshaw, Chadderton, Blackley, Prestwich, Salford, & North Manchester. Other locations are theoretically possible!
I currently teach at the following times:
Monday-Thursday: 9am – 9pm
Friday: 9am – 6pm
Obviously I am busier from 4pm onwards (after school/work) so have more availability during the daytime, but slots do regularly crop up in the evenings so please do get in touch.
As a mobile piano teacher, I take the strain out of piano lessons. I reliably turn up and give my undivided attention for the duration and you have no waiting around or getting stuck in traffic – your busy life just got easier!
One to one private tuition is the best way of learning the piano, allowing for demonstration, individual attention and personalised treatment. Given my travel time, I think I am very competitively priced:
4 x 60-min lessons: £108
4 x 45-min lessons: £84
4 x 30-min lessons: £64
You can see that I like to book 4 lessons in a block, payable by cash, cheque or BACS transfer in advance, so that we are not always having to deal with money. Non-attendance or cancellation of a lesson for any reason without 48 hours notice need to be charged for. I am sure you understand.
