Nicola Rumford, Pianist
BMus (Hons), Dip M-T, BSc (Hons)
Piano Lessons
I am a highly experienced teacher, having taught the piano privately for 24 years. I offer one-to-one lessons either face-to-face or online. These lessons are open to pupils of all ages; adults are welcome. I teach all standards from complete beginners to Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) Grade 8.
My teaching style is relaxed, with enjoyment of piano-playing being paramount. I am very happy to teach those pupils who don’t wish to sit exams, with lessons tailored to their interests.
For those pupils wishing to sit ABRSM exams I offer more structured lessons and thorough preparation of all exam components. My pupils have achieved a pass rate of more than 99%, with a high proportion obtaining Merits or Distinctions. One pupil who came to me as a complete beginner has been through all the grades with me culminating in a Distinction at ABRSM Grade 8.
The basis of my teaching is classical music; however, I also enjoy teaching blues/jazz. Lessons can include aural training, scales, sight-reading, theory, improvisation and composition. I incorporate Paul Harris's Simultaneous Learning approach to help pupils make connections between the different aspects of the music, and to make the lessons fun.
Lessons are in Cambuskenneth, Stirling. Free residential on-street parking is available.
Group Piano Lessons
I also offer tuition in small groups (maximum 4). Lessons cover all of the same areas as one-to-one tuition. Group lessons are available for standards from complete beginner up to ABRSM Grade 2.
Groups are formed of pupils of similar age and standard. New pupils can easily be added to existing groups, or I am happy to create a new lesson slot for a group of friends.
Group lessons offer a cost-effective alternative to one-to-one tuition, and provide an opportunity to try out learning piano in a fun, relaxed environment.
Music Theory Tuition
I also offer lessons purely in Music Theory (ABRSM), at all levels. These lessons are open to students learning any instrument who require an ABRSM Grade 5 Theory certificate, a pre-requisite for ABRSM practical exam entries at Grade 6 level and above.
Lessons are in Cambuskenneth, Stirling. Free residential on-street parking is available.
Piano Accompaniment
For students learning instruments other than piano, I am a reliable and skilled accompanist for ABRSM exams. I am happy to accompany all ages and instruments.
I would recommend two practice sessions before the exam. These would be up to 30 minutes each, for which I would charge my normal lesson rate pro rata. For the exam itself, I charge half the ABRSM exam fee.