WHERE?
LOCATION
Based in Ardley (near Bicester in north Oxfordshire, UK), John prefers to teach students from his studio here if possible, as there is a sizeable music room with a piano, organ, music stands, double bass, dozens of guitars...
DURATION
John usually offers half-hour or hour-long lessons, either weekly or fortnightly, but is more than happy to tailor your lessons to your own preferences.
PREPARING FOR EXAMS
You may want to work towards the various ABRSM medals and grades, or simply to play for pleasure and the enjoyment of making music with others. It's your choice!
Children may appreciate the rewards of earning ABRSM medals, followed by working towards their grades, whereas adults are often more inclined just to "play for pleasure", perhaps with a view to playing with a friend or joining a group to make music together.
Manor Farm, Somerton Road, Ardley, Bicester OX27 7NS
home of
Manor Farm Music Frivolities and Ardley Parlour Concerts
between Bicester, Banbury, Oxford and Brackley - main local landmarks are the M40 (junction 10) and the Ardley tip!
"CASE HISTORIES"
Cello
Deborah enjoyed singing and played the recorder from time to time, but had never tried a stringed instrument. Then she was given a 3/4 size cello by a friend (great friend!). She started taking lessons with John, and enjoyed all the musical opportunities available at Manor Farm.
Not only did this cover how to get the best out of her instrument, but also how to enjoy playing with others - including how to keep going regardless of whether or not she went wrong!
She didn't want to take any exams, but loved every minute of making music.
She earned the nickname of "the giggling cellist" from someone who overheard the hilarity that was accompanying one lesson which they took outdoors in the summer!
Violin
Anna was just 4 when she started learning the violin with John - she was still so petite she needed a one-eighth sized instrument. She has now earned her copper ABRSM medal and is working towards bronze - and has moved up to a quarter size violin!
Recorder group
The church in nearby Duns Tew used to have musicians to play at their Nine Lessons & Carols service each Christmas, to make a change from the organ, but one year they ran out of available instrumentalists.
So John taught himself and others (trying to keep one step ahead of them each time!) to play the recorder. "Fumb & Forefinger" was originally formed to accompany the Duns Tew carol service in 2015.
Members of the new recorder ensemble enjoyed themselves so much that they now meet twice a month and work on all kinds of music - as well as Christmas carols!