Piano Lessons

Hello!

My name is Ruby, I'm a classical piano and music tutor. Having been a pianist and singer since aged six, I have a deep love and appreciation of music in all it's forms. I first learnt to play in traditional classical style, completing all eight ABRSM graded theory and performance exams in piano and vocal with distinction. After this, I studied jazz, orchestral and alternative music at Melbourne University's VCA, before completing a degree in Ethnomusicology with the University of Auckland. In my own time, I compose and perform folk/ art-pop music as a singer, producer and banjoist.

I have been a teacher since 2021, beginning in New Zealand with a classical piano studio that specialises in ABRSM & Trinity exam preparation. After returning to Australia in 2023, I worked with several primary schools in Northern Melbourne and classical and contemporary music studios, before establishing my own solo, small music education business, providing lessons to Melbourne based students via weekly or biweekly house-visits.

I teach in all styles and across all ages - my youngest student is a 3 year old classical pianist, while my oldest student was 80+ year old student who studied improvised playing as a form of dementia rehabilitation. As a teacher, I believe that the best foundation for any student is that they enjoy their lessons. I always lead with the view that students should be passionate about their instrument before introducing a disciplined practice regime. My first task as a teacher is to facilitate a positive experience and attitude towards lessons so that I can guide them towards passion and a style of music they feel inspired by.

From there, we establish a strong baseline of technique, aural and sight-reading competency, and music theory knowledge. Once these skills are concretised, students should have the confidence and technical proficiency to teach themselves pieces or compose in whatever style or genre they're most enthusiastic about.

As student's skills improve (and they grow older), the level of practice required increases. For young beginner students, I typically recommend they start with just 15 minutes of daily practice, while a Grade 6 ABRSM exam candidate may need to do at least an hour a day. However, every student is unique and has different availability, so my practice advice is always tailored to the wants and needs of each student and family.

In terms of material, I'm happy to teach with any available books or sheet music, old or new -- having taught over 300 students, I'm likely already familiar with the book! I also have a list of lesson books that I recommend, which we can arrange for discounted purchase via specific vendors. Additionally, I bring a folder with loose music to lessons, as well as loose refill, stationary (and stickers) that we may need.