I’ve been teaching piano since I was fifteen years old. That’s nineteen years of lessons, students, breakthroughs, and the occasional frustrated parent wondering why their child won’t practise. I started out teaching for my grandmother Elsie - the most inspiring teacher I’ve ever known—and everything I understand about music, about teaching, and about how to carry yourself as a musician began with her.
Since then I’ve taught in schools, built Private Piano Tuition UK, and continued performing as a pianist at some of the most extraordinary events imaginable. But no matter where the performing has taken me, I’ve never stopped teaching locally - because honestly, I just love it too much to give it up.
If you’ve found your way here because you (or your child) are thinking about learning the piano, I’ve also created a collection of carefully designed resources in the Music Shop - from elegant music theory posters to structured practice materials - designed to support learning from the very beginning through to more advanced playing, all in a way that feels calm, clear, and enjoyable.
This blog is simply a collection of my thoughts, experiences, and honest opinions after nearly two decades of teaching. Nothing here is gospel - it’s just what I’ve noticed, what’s worked, and what I genuinely believe.
I hope it’s useful, and more than anything, I hope this inspires you to play the piano today.
Where to Find Affordable Piano Sheet Music
Not sure where to find piano sheet music without spending a fortune? Here's my honest guide to the best sites — free, subscription, and everything in between.
What Piano Lessons Really Give Your Child - Beyond the Music
I've been teaching children for nearly two decades. Here's what the piano really gives them - and it has very little to do with music.
Why Learning an Instrument as an Adult Is One of the Best Things You Can Do for Yourself
I've been teaching adults since I was seventeen. Here's what nearly two decades of lessons has taught me about what the piano really gives people.
Can You Quit Piano Lessons Anytime?
It's a fair question - and one worth answering honestly. Here's how it works at Private Piano Tuition UK.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Piano Lessons
Taking piano lessons is one thing. Getting the most out of them is another - here's how.
Should I Buy a Piano Before Taking Lessons?
Before you spend a single penny on a piano or keyboard - please read this first.
How Often Should I Take Piano Lessons?
Weekly is the gold standard - but the honest answer is a little more nuanced than that.
Can You Learn Piano Without a Teacher?
The honest answer is yes - but here's what you need to know before you decide.
How to Find an Affordable Piano Teacher Near Me
Finding a great piano teacher at a price that works for you is absolutely possible - here's exactly where to look.
Where Should I Put My Piano? The Room That Could Change Everything About Your Practice
Where you put your piano matters more than you think - and it could be the reason you're not practising enough.
What Are the Benefits of Learning Piano? More Than You Might Think…
The benefits of learning piano go far deeper than just playing music - and some of them might genuinely surprise you.
What Happens in Your First Piano Lesson? Here's Exactly What to Expect.
First lessons are almost always gentler than you imagine - here's exactly what to expect.
Do You Need to Read Music to Play the Piano?
The short answer is no - but the full answer is far more interesting than that.
Can Adults Learn Piano From Scratch? Absolutely.
It's never too late - and adults might just be the best beginners there are.
Piano Lessons vs. Apps Like Simply Piano - Which Is Actually Better?
Apps got you started - but is there a point where only a real teacher will do?
How Long Does It Take to Get to Your First Piano Grade and Is It the Best Way to Improve?
Grade 1 isn't a finish line - but knowing what it takes might surprise you.
How Much Do Piano Lessons Cost? An Honest Guide
Piano lesson prices vary more than you'd think - here's what you're actually paying for.
How Long Does It Take to Learn Piano? An Honest Answer
There's no single answer - but understanding what progress really looks like changes everything.
How Much Should You Practice Piano as a Beginner? Little and Often Wins Every Time
Little and often beats everything else - here's why consistency is the only piano practice rule that matters.
How to Motivate Kids During Piano Lessons
Motivation is the secret ingredient - here's how to keep children genuinely excited about the piano.