CREATIVE MUSIC TEACHING SINCE 2014
Lesson FAQs
Vermont / Bentleigh (Melbourne VIC)
Online worldwide
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about lessons. If there's anything else you’re wondering about, feel free to get in touch — I’ll be happy to give you more information.
Lesson availability and suitability
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If you're a beginner, I recommend starting with ongoing weekly lessons. Regular sessions give you the structure, support, and feedback you need in the early stages of learning — helping you build good habits, stay motivated, and avoid common frustrations.
Ongoing lessons are also a great fit for intermediate students or anyone wanting to make steady progress with a mix of accountability and flexibility. We’ll build a strong working relationship over time, and I’ll tailor each lesson to your evolving needs.
Masterclasses are one-off, focused sessions designed for intermediate to advanced musicians who don’t need regular lessons but want expert guidance on something specific — like a tricky technique, creative block, performance prep, or developing a song.
If you’re not sure which is right for you, feel free to book a free 30-minute consultation and we can talk it through together.
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I currently have limited openings for new students at the following times:
Australian students (Zoom / Vermont / Bentleigh)
5 - 8pm AEST / AEDT (weekdays)
9 - 11am AEST / AEDT (Saturdays)European / UK students (Zoom)
9 - 12pm Central European Time (weekdays)US students (Zoom)
6 - 8pm CST (weekdays)
You can check my weekly schedule here to see what times might work.
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I prioritise ongoing weekly students in my schedule. Casual or fortnightly lessons are available when I have openings, but spots are limited.
If you’re looking for a few focused lessons rather than ongoing study, I recommend booking a masterclass.
Not sure which option is right for you? Feel free to get in touch and we can chat about what would suit you best.
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I offer a free 30-minute consultation for all new students. Please email me to arrange a time to chat online.
I don’t offer observation lessons, but you can get a strong sense of my teaching style by watching my Practice Space podcast on YouTube, which shares the ideas and mindset I bring to lessons.
Ongoing lessons are also a great fit for intermediate students or anyone wanting to make steady progress with a mix of accountability and flexibility. We’ll build a strong working relationship over time, and I’ll tailor each lesson to your evolving needs.
Masterclasses are one-off, focused sessions designed for intermediate to advanced musicians who don’t need regular lessons but want expert guidance on something specific — like a tricky technique, creative block, performance prep, or developing a song.
If you’re not sure which is right for you, feel free to book a free 30-minute consultation and we can talk it through together.
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Lessons cannot be cancelled, but can be rescheduled with advance notice:
Weekly lessons — 24 hours
Masterclasses — 48 hours
Each lesson can be rescheduled once, to another day or time within the same week. If you're unable to make the rescheduled time, the lesson will be forfeited.
If you can’t give 24 or 48 hours notice due to illness or a last-minute emergency, you may book a replacement time within the next 7 days (subject to availability). See my booking terms for more information.
Rescheduling, cancellations, and consultations
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A computer or tablet with a built-in or external camera works best. Please use headphones where possible, and make sure you have a reliable internet connection.
I use Google Meet for all my online lessons, so you will also need a Google or Gmail account.
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Yes. I accept payments via Stripe in EUR, GBP, USD and other major currencies, with no international transaction fees.
I use set rates for commonly used currencies so your lesson cost remains stable regardless of exchange rate changes. Email me to request pricing in your preferred currency.
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Please send a short outline of what you'd like to work on—this could be anything from 7th chord theory or vocal warmups to feedback on a song or guidance on a half-finished piece.
You're also welcome to share recordings, videos, sheet music or anything else you’ve been working on. I’ll review your materials beforehand and prepare tailored feedback and resources for us to use in your session.
Lesson logistics
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This depends on your goals, background, and schedule.
If you're a beginner or lower-intermediate student, I suggest committing to 6–12 months of ongoing weekly lessons to build a solid foundation. I book ongoing lessons in blocks of 10 (prepaid in advance) — usually enough time to get to know each other, build some momentum, and assess whether you'd like to continue working together longer term.
More advanced students may benefit from just a few intensive sessions, and masterclasses may be a better fit.
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Absolutely! Many of my students began as adult beginners with little or no music training. Some now write their own songs, perform in bands or choirs, or simply enjoy playing for themselves or their kids.
With the right support and dedication, anyone can learn to play, sing, and write music—at any age.
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With classical double bass students, I only teach beginner to intermediate-level technique — but I do work with advanced players on integrating songwriting, composition, and music theory into their playing.
Learning goals and expectations
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Definitely. Many of my students are learning singing alongside guitar, ukulele or double bass. You’re welcome to start with one and add others over time.
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It’s possible, though you’ll find it easier if you can play basic chords on an instrument or use software like GarageBand or Band in a Box.
We can include beginner-level guitar, ukulele, keyboard, or computer production skills as part of your songwriting lessons.
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Not at all. Many of my students learn by ear. That said, learning to read music can expand your musical possibilities.
If it aligns with your goals, we can introduce reading skills gradually, so it feels like a natural part of your learning.
Instruments and subjects
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Not at all! I aim to make theory enjoyable, accessible, and relevant—especially for singers, self-taught musicians, and songwriters who’ve learned mostly by ear.
I know how overwhelming theory can feel, and I take care to teach it in ways that build confidence and support your creative work.
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Yes. I studied these subjects in depth at university and continue to explore them in my own practice. I regularly teach advanced theory to self-taught or classically trained musicians and singers who want to strengthen their improvisation, composing, and arranging skills.
Music theory & improvisation
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Yes. I have a big collection of tools, exercises, and creative strategies to help you move through stuck periods and stay inspired.
You might like to start with these articles I wrote about writing a song a day for a year:
Creative support
Book a free 30 minute consultation
Online (via Google Meet)
This is a relaxed, friendly chat where we can talk about your musical goals and interests, get to know each other a bit, and I can answer any questions you have about lessons and scheduling.
Practice Space podcast
Practice Space is my free video podcast for musicians and music students.
Each episode offers practical tips, thoughtful insights, and guided meditations to help you approach your instrument with joy, curiosity, and confidence. Overcome procrastination, stay curious, and bring more creativity into your daily practice.
Designed like a meditation app, the videos invite you to settle in for a few minutes of gentle chat and a guided meditation — then begin your practice.
I encourage my students to use the podcast for ongoing motivation and to maintain our connection beyond scheduled lessons.
You can browse or search the full Practice Space archives anytime to find episodes that match your current practice goals or mood.