About Andrew
Discover the joy of learning something new. Whether you are: a complete beginner; a performing pianist looking for a extra input; a composer; or a student in need of some help with Grade 5 Theory, Andrew is a pragmatic, kind teacher able to help you reach your goals.
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Andrew gained entry to Chetham’s School of Music in 1997 and studied the piano with Nigel Pitceathly and Murray McLachlan. In 2002, at the age of 16, he was a BBC Young Musician semi-finalist, featured in BBC television and radio interviews, and in the same year performed Rachmaninov’s 2nd piano concerto. As a composer, he enjoyed masterclasses with Sir Peter Maxwell Davies and James Macmillan, and completed his first symphony aged 19. Between 2017 and 2022, he was a lecturer in musicology at Salford University. He currently lives in Prestwich, Manchester, and has been teaching piano, music theory, and composition for 15 years.
Additional Information
Of all instruments, learning the piano can provide the most complete, rewarding and enriching musical experience. From the easiest Mozart minuet to the most difficult Prokofiev sonata, there is something in the vast repertoire to suit all tastes. It is my role to facilitate the discovery and performance of this music.
I aim to promote as much independent learning as possible, so consider myself quite a 'hands off' teacher. I prefer to give students space to think for themselves and use common sense, rather than too prescriptive or overbearing.
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Learning the piano, therefore, is not merely a box-ticking exercise about taking exams - though they are useful. It is about enjoying the widest variety of different music, and being able to learn to play it with pleasure.
