Lewis - St. James - Harpsichord

Methodology

I teach classical singing, keyboard continuo, and theory/harmony. I am happy to teach all sorts of music, and at any level. Beginners of any age are welcome!

- Which subject(s) do you teach?

My main study is classical singing, but am I also proficient in harmony, counterpoint and keyboard continuo. I am an early music specialist and have extensive knowledge in this area: intrinsic to this is exposure to a large amount of chamber music.

- Tell me about your qualifications.

Bmus(hons) - Birmingham Conservatoire ABRSM grade 8 distinction Voice and Tuba A level music: A

- How much do you charge?

Singing lessons are charged at a rate of £25 an hour. Fees are subject to negotiation and travelling costs etc: any questions are more than welcome! I regret that due to abuse of the system I no longer offer a free consultation lesson. If shorter lessons are desired, the amount for 30 minutes is £15 - this is generally aimed at younger voices.

- Where do you teach?

I prefer to teach from home, but am happy to travel within reason: the only stipulation I have is that the learning environment is suitable: clean, tidy and preferably with a pitch source of some kind (piano, keyboard etc). My current location is easy to get to by car and has off-street parking. I teach from my home in Nottingham, or various locations in the Midlands, including Birmingham.

- When are you available?

My availability is necessarily flexible, depending on performing work and travelling. I am however happy to make student's slots regular.

- Which ages and levels do you teach?

I am happy to teach all ages and levels: all that I require of students is a willingness to learn and an enthusiasm for music.

- Which qualifications do you prepare your students for?

I am happy to prepare students for ABRSM exams, and am happy to look at A level harmony work.

Experience

- What kind of experience do you have?

I have a lot of experience in coaching early chamber groups, usually on matters of performance practice. I have also taught a variety of individuals, of whom many have very differing standards and interests. As a singer, I have been performing with the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford for the last few months. I have made a number of acclaimed recordings with the Convivium Singers, and have performed with groups such as Ex Cathedra. As a continuo player, I play for the Birmingham Conservatoire Early Music department, which involves playing with a number of ensembles and soloists. I have participated in masterclasses with such performers as Dan Laurin, Piers Adams, Adam Woolfe, Emily White, Oliver Webber, Margaret Faultless and Andrew Parrott. I frequently organise my own concerts, for which I edit the majority of the music. My own compositions have been performed in various venues such as Birmingham Oratory and the Lighthouse in Poole, Dorset's regional arts venue.

- Do you have an up-to-date DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service, formerly CRB) Certificate?

I was CRB checked for my work at Birmingham Cathedral.

- Where and with whom did you train?

I studied at Birmingham Conservatoire with tenor Andrew King and baritone Gwion Thomas, amongst others.