Mrs Will Minton GRSM.ARMCM.Dip Ed

My background

With over 30 years experience teaching piano and music theory, I am passionate about music and the pleasure it brings to people’s lives.
 I taught piano at degree level at Huddersfield University for 17 years and have also taught adult piano and theory classes at the Leeds College of Music. 
I have been teaching privately from my home in Headingley for 25 years. 
A typical snapshot of my pupils ranges from six year old absolute beginners, to six formers who have been with me since primary school and are working towards grade 8. 
I have adults who are taking it up as a new hobby, those wishing to revisit piano learnt in their youth, and digital music production undergraduates looking to improve their music theory skills.  

 My approach

I teach all my pupils on a very individual basis, tailoring their lessons to suit their varying abilities, personalities and tastes.  At the heart of my teaching is a well structured plan.  As a musician, most of your time is spent practising on your own, so a key factor of my approach is teaching my pupils how to practice.  By following my methods, the process of learning new notes and how to play with both hands, for example, is effective and productive.  My techniques enable pupils to overcome difficulties and gain tangible results, making practice time enjoyable and rewarding.   Lessons are played on a century old Bechstein grand piano which produces a wonderfully warm timbre. 

Theory is taught to all my pupils, both children and adults.  I believe that learning the language of music is vital and will enhance your enjoyment of the instrument.  All children work towards the Grade 5 Theory Exam, and to date, I have a 100% pass rate

Opportunities for progression

Grades 

The Grades we can work towards are through the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, and I prepare my pupils well for exams should they wish to take them.  Over 30 years of teaching, I have a pass rate of 100% and one of my pupils won awards for the highest marks gained for Grade 6 and Grade 8 in the Leeds and Harrogate areas!

Festivals

Music Festivals are a great way of showcasing young people’s talents in front of a live audience and celebrating their achievements amongst family and friends.  Over the years, my pupils have won numerous prizes at local music festivals including the Mrs Sunderland Music Festival in Huddersfield, and the Rothwell and Horsforth Music Festivals.  I am always happy to support involvement in these events as they can be a fantastic confidence boost.

University students

Universities welcome students who have wider range of interests than their chosen subject, and studying music demonstrates commitment and the ability to work under your own steam.  The examination results from Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music Grades count towards UCAS Points.

Call me for a chat about your musical ambitions!

If learning piano, keyboard or music theory is something you feel you’d like to pursue, please call me on 0113 2784990 and we can have a chat over the phone or arrange a visit.  If I’m teaching and the answer phone is on, please leave a message and I’ll get back to you as soon as I’m free.

Mrs Will Minton, 8 Claremont Drive, Leeds LS6 4ED.