Testimonials
Parent of Megan, age 11:
Rachel is a committed and knowledgeable teacher. She has a patient, encouraging manner and seeks to nurture resilience and creativity in her students as well as technical ability. My daughter frequently comments that she enjoys her lessons with Rachel, and she is making great progress.
Parent of Jasper, age 11:
Rachel's understanding and flexible approach means that she's able to tailor the tuition to the needs of the student. This keeps young and restless minds involved with setting the direction and speed of learning - and in turn, leading to engagement and exam success!
Parent of Reana, age 8:
Rachel's teaching very much suits Reana's learning style as she is dyslexic and the method of learning by ear first has really benefitted her.
Attending Reana's lessons has been invaluable as I am able to help her practice, with the full knowledge of what she has learnt that week, and what needs to be developed. It has meant that I have been learning about the cello and how to practice, and can support Reana in her learning. Reana has difficulty with her concentration, and my involvement in the lessons has helped her in that she knows how interested I am in the great progress she has been making. I have seen her concentration in lessons improve enormously in the time that Rachel has been teaching her. This is a very positive and rewarding experience that we can share.
Rachel's lessons are fun and varied enough to keep Reana's attention. She is also learning the invaluable early techniques which will pave the way to her becoming a competent cello player. Rachel also always encourages self expression and exploration with the cello. Reana has a very colourful imagination and the lessons allow her to explore her creativity whilst still giving her a sold grounding in technique.
Reana and Rachel often play duets and hearing them play together is always a pleasure. It is wonderful to watch Reana produce some lovely music now with her cello. Her lessons have given her the interest to go to concerts and she is always fascinated by the orchestra and the cello players. Reana has been to see Rachel perform with her trio, which she loved. This has all opened a new door for Reana to experience music and concerts and the joy this brings. I would say the experience of the lessons and the progress that is made, to be able to play this beautiful instrument, makes it an invaluable part of learning and life.
Catherine, adult pupil:
I found Rachel's details in an edition of Families Magazine last year, when looking for a cello-teacher for my son. While I learnt the basics to help him with his practice I became hooked myself. One year later I have a distinction in my Grade 1 exam. I have found Rachel to be a thorough and encouraging teacher. Rachel is teaching me how to put personality into my playing. Each lesson stretches me just enough to keep me challenged and engaged and build my confidence along the way. I am so glad to be learning to play the cello with Rachel.
Justin, adult pupil:
As an adult student, I approached Rachel not only because of her qualifications and experience, but also because she performs regularly with Trianon Symphony Orchestra, and also with the 'Cornerhouse Trio’. Rachel always puts you at ease, and I find her to be very friendly, supportive and flexible around my needs. She will always go out of her way to support me in learning pieces I have discovered on my own. After one year of lessons, I achieved Grade I with Distinction, with the highest marks for the November exam session! I would definitely recommend Rachel if you are looking for a cello teacher.