What makes Private Piano Tuition UK different?

The school was founded in 2014 on the belief that great piano teaching should embrace both the classical and the contemporary. Students here study Beethoven and Chopin with the same care brought to Ed Sheeran, Rihanna, film scores, and Bridgerton-style arrangements. If you want grades, wonderful. If you want to arrange chart songs, also wonderful. Often, students do both - side by side. The goal is always the same: real progress, genuine enjoyment, and a love of music that lasts.

How many students do you teach?

Private Piano Tuition UK currently teaches over 70 students each week across Tadley, Basingstoke, Hampshire, and Berkshire. Despite that number, lessons remain personal, carefully planned, and individually tailored. Every student has a learning plan built around them.

Who teaches the lessons?

All lessons are taught by Lewis Bolland - a professional pianist, composer, and teacher who founded Private Piano Tuition UK in 2014. Lewis performs at some of the most prestigious venues and events in the country, has achieved over three million streams as a composer, and has been featured on BBC Radio 3 and BBC Sounds. He brings that same level of care, musicianship, and attention to detail into every single lesson. When you join Private Piano Tuition UK, you are taught by Lewis - not a substitute, not a subcontractor. Always Lewis.

Getting Started

How do I apply for lessons?

Simply visit the Private Piano Tuition UK homepage, click the application button, fill out the short form, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. There's no pressure and no obligation - just a conversation about where you are and where you'd like to go.

Do you offer taster lessons?

Yes - and I'd always encourage one before committing to anything. A taster lesson gives you the chance to meet me, experience how I teach, and get a genuine feel for whether it's the right fit. You can find out more about lesson formats and pricing on the teaching prices and information page.

What age should my child start piano lessons?

There's no single right answer - and I'd be cautious of anyone who gives you one with too much certainty. Most children are ready to begin somewhere between five and seven, but readiness matters far more than age. If your child is curious about the piano, able to focus for short periods, and genuinely interested in music, that's a much better indicator than their birthday. A taster lesson is always the best way to find out - it takes the pressure off completely and gives you a real sense of whether the time is right.

Do you teach adults as well as children?

Absolutely - and some of my favourite students are adults. Whether you're a complete beginner picking up the piano for the first time, or a returning player who learned as a child and wants to find their way back, you are very welcome here. It is never too late. Adults often progress quickly because they bring focus, motivation, and a genuine reason for being there. If you've always wanted to play, please don't let age be the thing that stops you.

Lessons & Learning

How long are lessons?

Lesson length depends on the student's age, level, and goals. Younger beginners typically start with 25-minute lessons, while older children and adults usually benefit from 55 minutes. We'll discuss what's right for you when you get in touch.

How often should lessons take place?

Weekly lessons are the standard - and for good reason. Consistency is one of the most important factors in making real progress at the piano. Regular weekly lessons, combined with practice at home, give students the best possible foundation. I also offer ad hoc lessons for students who need something more flexible.

What do lessons actually cover?

Lessons at Private Piano Tuition UK cover everything a well-rounded pianist needs - technique, music theory, aural training, sight-reading, and a diverse repertoire spanning classical and contemporary. Learning plans are personalised from the start, and every student progresses at their own pace with clear goals and consistent guidance. For those pursuing exams, dedicated ABRSM preparation is built into the process. For those learning purely for enjoyment, the focus shifts to repertoire, creativity, and musical confidence.

Do I need a piano or keyboard at home?

Yes - having an instrument at home is essential. You don't need to spend a lot to begin with. A basic keyboard with 61 touch-sensitive keys is absolutely fine for a beginner, and there are good options available secondhand on Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree for very little. As students progress - particularly around Grade 1 or Grade 2 - I'd recommend moving to a weighted key instrument to develop proper technique and finger strength. I'm always happy to advise on what to look for.

How much should my child practise?

For beginners, little and often is the approach I always recommend. Ten to fifteen minutes a day, five or six days a week, will make far more difference than one long session at the weekend. As students progress, practice time naturally increases - but the principle stays the same: consistency matters more than duration. Every student receives clear guidance on what to practise and how, so time at home is never wasted.

Do you prepare students for ABRSM exams?

Yes - and it's something we take seriously. Private Piano Tuition UK maintains a 100% pass rate with the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music. Exam preparation covers every element - pieces, scales, sight-reading, and aural training - and I always review mark sheets with students after results come in. That said, exams are never the only measure of progress. Many students learn purely for enjoyment, and that is equally valued here.

How long will it take to reach Grade 1?

With consistent practice and regular lessons, many students reach Grade 1 standard within six to twelve months. I've had students pass with high distinction in seven months - it's absolutely achievable when the work is there. Every student is different, though, and I'd always rather a student is genuinely ready than rushed towards an exam before their time.

Pricing & Policies

How much do piano lessons cost?

Pricing is competitive, transparent, and reflects both Lewis's experience as a teacher and his career as a professional performer. You can view full lesson prices and information here. Accessibility matters - Private Piano Tuition UK was built on the belief that great teaching should be within reach for families across Hampshire and Berkshire. Lessons start from £18.

Do you offer flexible or ad hoc lessons?

Yes. Ad hoc piano lessons are available for students who can't commit to a fixed weekly slot - whether that's due to a busy schedule, irregular availability, or simply wanting to try things before committing. Some students come once a month, work through everything in their own time, and get in touch with questions between sessions. It works beautifully for the right person.

Do you offer paired lessons?

Yes - and it's an option I'd genuinely recommend for younger beginners or families looking for a more affordable entry point. Paired lessons are a lovely way to start, particularly for children who might feel a little nervous on their own. In my experience, many students who begin in paired lessons naturally move into one-to-one lessons after six months to a year, once they've found their feet and know it's something they want to continue.

What is your cancellation policy?

All lessons are paid for regardless of attendance - the tuition fee reserves your exclusive weekly time, and that time cannot be resold or recovered. Lessons cancelled by 9am on the day will be turned into a lesson credit. Each student is allowed a maximum of two lesson credits per school year, redeemable in make-up sessions held during half term, Easter, and the summer holidays. Any lessons cancelled by me will result in a deduction on your next invoice.

What notice is required to stop lessons?

A half term's notice is required if you wish to discontinue lessons. This gives both student and teacher time to plan properly and ensures a respectful, organised end to the arrangement.

Have your students gone on to professional careers?

Yes - and it's something we're genuinely proud of. A number of former Private Piano Tuition UK students have gone on to careers in teaching, composing, and professional performance. Some have performed at venues including Four Seasons Hotels, Roseate Hotels, luxury weddings, and the hospitality areas at the Wimbledon Championships. Others have become teachers themselves. Both outcomes matter enormously to us.

I hope this has answered everything you needed to know. If you have a question that isn't covered here, please don't hesitate to get in touch - I'm always happy to help. If you'd like to find out more about who I am and how I teach, you're welcome to visit the Private Piano Tuition UK homepage here. I offer piano lessons in Tadley, Basingstoke, and across Hampshire, Berkshire, and the South of England - and this page is here as a free resource for piano students and parents wherever you are. If you're ready to take the next step, you can view lesson prices and information here.