I offer a wide range, from elegant modern and classical styles for aisle songs, to smooth jazz and Disney classics for ceremonies and dinners. My goal is always to match the atmosphere of your event.
Performances can be tailored to your event, so anything from a short 30 minute ceremony to a full evening with multiple sets. We can confirm the schedule together so it fits smoothly into your day.
Absolutely. You can provide a list of special requests, or I can suggest a setlist based on your style and preferences. I also specialise in custom writing a personalised arrangement for aisle songs.
Yes. I bring professional sound equipment suitable for weddings, but require foldback speakers or an in house plug-in for surround sound indoors for venues larger than 80. I can often use a DJ's speakers if available. I just need access to a standard power source.
I travel anywhere in the Newcastle/ Hunter Region. Travel fees may apply depending on further the location, but I’ll always be clear about costs up front.
Absolutely! As long as there’s a flat, shaded, and dry space to set up, I’m more than happy to perform outdoors. (A wet-weather backup plan is always recommended, just in case.)
If it’s something I know, I’ll happily play it. For songs not in my repertoire, I encourage requests in advance so I can prepare properly.
I primarily perform solo, but I can also arrange duos and have connections to many professional singers if preferred. Its important to note that adding extra musicians will increase the cost, but it’s a wonderful way to create an even richer atmosphere for your event.
I teach a combination of classical theory and chordal improvisation. I predominantly focus on scales, sight-reading, and chordal improvisation theory. It is important to build a repertoire that balances between reading music and creating your own sounds to develop several styles.
I can only share from my perspective, and from what I have experienced, exams are largely seen as an achievement of comparison. I've seen too many students achieve grade 8, but go on to lose all interest and forget their skills within 2 years as a direct result from associating the stress of the exams with their skill of music. I strongly prefer to impart a passion for their instrument that will last a lifetime.
Practice varies according to difficulty, but in general your practice should include:
It's important to remember that consistency is key. The most helpful practice is routine and habitual, even if it starts at just 5 minutes every day.
Jazz learning is improvisation-based which focuses on playing by ear, understanding chordal theory, and developing and in part learning by ear. Classical learning is more notation-based, emphasizing precise reading and interpretation according to the original composer of written music.
Both approaches can complement each other — a well-rounded pianist benefits from the structure of classical and the independence of jazz.
The best way to develop sight-reading is by starting with music several levels lower than your technical ability.
For example, an advanced student should start by getting comfortable sightreading beginner music, or intermediate students should start learning sight-reading by using preliminary level songs.
There are also specialised exercises available online, and you can find various technical exercises on Musescore.
To be considered advanced, you should be consistently mastering intermediate pieces while demonstrating expressive playing. Generally, advanced level students will be able to comfortably sight-read beginner-intermediate level pieces. Also, a solid grasp of theory and Italian terminology would be expected at an advanced level.
To be considered applicational, you should be confidently performing advanced-level pieces with technical precision and musical expression. Applicational students are expected to handle complex rhythms, fast runs, and wide leaps with control, while interpreting musical phrasing independently of a teacher. Strong sight-reading skills and fluency in musical terminology are essential at this level.
A lesson is typically 30 minutes long, but hour-long lessons are recommended for more advanced students to develop technical exercises and skill outside of song choices.
The cost of piano lessons varies greatly depending on the abilities, expertise and musical background of the teacher. Highly populated areas will tend to charge more due to the increased cost of living. As a rough guide per 30 minutes in Australia:
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