facebook
from64.00GBP/ h

Improvisation for String Players - Unlock your creativity!

Learn to improvise, jam and create your own music.

I am a cellist, composer and improviser specialising in working with string players to unlock and devlop creative potential. I will work with you to deveop a bespoke course to help you develop skills in improvisation.

Areas covered:
Jazz improvisation - Blues, Standards, Harmony, Bass Lines, Finding Chords, Building and Creating Solos, Elarnig repertoire.
Baroque Imrpovisation - Ground Bass, Partimento realisation and developing cadenzas for classical repertoire
Free/Folk and other styles - we can explore any styles of improvisation, and discuss how to develop your skills.

I am a professor of Imrpovisation at the Royal Colege of Music in London, and a composer and performer of my own music internationally.

Location

At teacher's location: The Avenue, London E4 9RP, UK
Online via webcam

|
Use ctrl + wheel to zoom!
+

General info

Age:
Teenagers (13-17 years old)
Adults (18-64 years old)
Seniors (65+ years old)
Student level:
Intermediate
Advanced
Duration:
45 minutes
60 minutes
90 minutes
The class is taught in:English

About Me

Hi, my name is Shirley.
I'm a cellist, composer and improviser.

I specialise in helping people develop creative skills in improvisation, composition and collaborative music making,
I have a very wide musical background which incorporates classical music, jazz and various traditions from North Africa and the Middle East, giving me a broad knowledge base and range of perspectives to draw on to help students explore their own interests.

I have developed a method of practice strategies for improvising, which can be applied across various genres, and help students to think creatively on the instrument, building understanding as you go along.

Everyone is different, and has different interests, strengths and weaknesses, so my teaching style reflects this in that I work with each student to develop a programme to support their personal development.

As a performer, I also practice what I teach, leading my trio, sextet and other projects in London. I've toured the UK and Europe with my trio and currently working on our second album.
I've also released several albums of free improvisation, and am working on a new [piano trio project combining classical repertoire with imrpovised works.

Education

I trained under Raphael Wallfisch at the Guilldhall School of Music, and Janos Starker in Paris before moving to Jerusalem, where I remained for 10 years, studying and performing a wide variety of musical traditions from the North Africa, Turkey and Middle East. Whilst in Jerusalem, I also became highly active on the jazz scene, working with artists including Avishai Cohen, Omer Avital and Yasmin Levy. Since returning to the UK, I have also worked with many leading jazz and world music groups, including Antonio Forcione, Mulato Astatke, Gilad Atzmon, Neil Cowley, Julian Ferraretto, Robert Mitchell, Maya Youssef and Alice Zawadzki.

Experience / Qualifications

I am a Professor of Musicianship and Improvisation at the Royal College of Music in London, and also teach at Trinity Laban Conservatoire, and RCM Junior Department.

I have taught for various Music Services in the UK, and also given workshops for Chethams School of Music, Guildhall School of Music and Drama, National Youth Jazz Collective, Royal Academy of Music and Drama, Royal Northern College of Music, and the Universities of Huddersfield, Kent, Manchester and Surrey.

I am also currently completeing a PhD in Musicology exploring issues of cross-cultural musical performance and authenticity.

Ask a question

Send a message explaining your needs and Shirley will reply soon:
The more detail, the better.
Ex. "Hi, when are you available to meet for a lesson?"

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -04:00) New York
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
0
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
1
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
2
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
3
  
  Tuesday at 3:00
  Wednesday at 3:00
  
  Friday at 3:00
  
  
4
  
  Tuesday at 4:00
  Wednesday at 4:00
  
  Friday at 4:00
  
  
5
  
  Tuesday at 5:00
  Wednesday at 5:00
  
  Friday at 5:00
  
  
6
  
  Tuesday at 6:00
  Wednesday at 6:00
  
  Friday at 6:00
  
  
7
  
  Tuesday at 7:00
  Wednesday at 7:00
  
  Friday at 7:00
  
  Sunday at 7:00
8
  
  Tuesday at 8:00
  Wednesday at 8:00
  
  Friday at 8:00
  
  Sunday at 8:00
9
  
  Tuesday at 9:00
  Wednesday at 9:00
  
  Friday at 9:00
  
  Sunday at 9:00
10
  
  Tuesday at 10:00
  Wednesday at 10:00
  
  Friday at 10:00
  
  Sunday at 10:00
11
  
  Tuesday at 11:00
  Wednesday at 11:00
  Thursday at 11:00
  Friday at 11:00
  
  Sunday at 11:00
12
  Monday at 12:00
  Tuesday at 12:00
  Wednesday at 12:00
  Thursday at 12:00
  Friday at 12:00
  
  Sunday at 12:00
13
  Monday at 13:00
  Tuesday at 13:00
  Wednesday at 13:00
  Thursday at 13:00
  Friday at 13:00
  
  Sunday at 13:00
14
  Monday at 14:00
  
  
  Thursday at 14:00
  Friday at 14:00
  
  
15
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
16
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
17
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
18
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
19
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
20
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
21
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
22
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
23
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
from £64At teacher's location
from £64Online via webcam

Good-fit Instructor Guarantee


If you are not satisfied after your first lesson, Apprentus will find you another instructor or will refund your first lesson.

Online reputation

  • Instructor since October 2024
  • Google connected

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -04:00) New York
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
0
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
1
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
2
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
3
  
  Tuesday at 3:00
  Wednesday at 3:00
  
  Friday at 3:00
  
  
4
  
  Tuesday at 4:00
  Wednesday at 4:00
  
  Friday at 4:00
  
  
5
  
  Tuesday at 5:00
  Wednesday at 5:00
  
  Friday at 5:00
  
  
6
  
  Tuesday at 6:00
  Wednesday at 6:00
  
  Friday at 6:00
  
  
7
  
  Tuesday at 7:00
  Wednesday at 7:00
  
  Friday at 7:00
  
  Sunday at 7:00
8
  
  Tuesday at 8:00
  Wednesday at 8:00
  
  Friday at 8:00
  
  Sunday at 8:00
9
  
  Tuesday at 9:00
  Wednesday at 9:00
  
  Friday at 9:00
  
  Sunday at 9:00
10
  
  Tuesday at 10:00
  Wednesday at 10:00
  
  Friday at 10:00
  
  Sunday at 10:00
11
  
  Tuesday at 11:00
  Wednesday at 11:00
  Thursday at 11:00
  Friday at 11:00
  
  Sunday at 11:00
12
  Monday at 12:00
  Tuesday at 12:00
  Wednesday at 12:00
  Thursday at 12:00
  Friday at 12:00
  
  Sunday at 12:00
13
  Monday at 13:00
  Tuesday at 13:00
  Wednesday at 13:00
  Thursday at 13:00
  Friday at 13:00
  
  Sunday at 13:00
14
  Monday at 14:00
  
  
  Thursday at 14:00
  Friday at 14:00
  
  
15
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
16
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
17
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
18
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
19
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
20
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
21
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
22
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
23
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
from £64At teacher's location
from £64Online via webcam

Good-fit Instructor Guarantee


If you are not satisfied after your first lesson, Apprentus will find you another instructor or will refund your first lesson.

Share

You are here


David
(LIVE or ONLINE!) Piano, improvisation, composition and music theory lessons
I am a Spanish pianist and composer (MMus graduate from Codarts Rotterdam in both directions) with many years of teaching experience, and also very active in performing in various contexts. I give private piano lessons for all levels and styles (classical, jazz, Latin, new age, pop...), as well as music theory, composition and improvisation lessons. My lessons are distinguished by their dynamics, practical approach and adaptation to the needs and interests of the student. The lessons (live or online) take place in my studio next to the Maastunnel, where I have a premium stage piano and a top-quality webcam setup. I speak Dutch at an intermediate level, which is improving every day.

Ashlin
Learn Violin. Online Violin classes for all age.Violin Lessons.
Online Violin Classes for all age. Looking for a right Violin Classes, to enter for a safe and quick learning experience? Then your search is over. You are now in the correct place. Book your lessons right now to enjoy and to enter to the fun World of Music.

Laura
Cello lessons for everyone! Learn how to play cello or improve your musical skills!
Hi, I'm Laura, I'm a cellist and I love to share my musical knowledge with other people. I have experience with students of all ages and I believe that there is no right age to start learning to play an instrument. I adapt my lessons to the objectives and tastes of each student. We can learn classical music, but also other styles such as pop. I also offer lessons focused on music theory if that is what you are looking for! If you want to learn to play the cello or improve your skills do not hesitate to write me!

Jacintha
Individual Violin Class tailored to all ages in Paris
Hello everyone! My name is Jacintha, a violinist from Malaysia currently residing in Paris. In this violin course, you will learn to play the violin with good intonation and develop your rhythm by learning your favorite repertoire! What Is Included: Classical Repertoires, Popular Songs, Studies. Practice Coaching Music theory (for beginners).

Mahmoud
Online violin course for beginners and intermediate students
An online violin course from A to Z! Book your place right now ! Learn how to play violin Learn how to read music sheets and play your favourite music through the violin! Practice is a must so be prepared 😄 Also depending on your location I can provide you with a violin at the best price available ✨

Syntyche
Learn to play The violin, Sing and learn music!!!!
Hi there, My name is Syntyche and I'm excited to guide you through a beautiful path in learning Music. I offer personalized online lessons in violin, singing, and music theory, tailored to your unique needs and learning style.Whether you're just starting out or have been playing for yearsyou'll have a blast learning with me! I believe learning should be fun, so expect a relaxed and supportive vibe in our lessons. Let's make music together!

Andrea
Cello lessons for everybody! Learn and improve your skills with me.
One of the most wonderfull string instrument is the cello. If you want to learn how to play cello or just to continue improving your skills do not hesitate to contact me. I have a lot of experience teaching cello and for me, the most important thing in my lessons is learn well and enjoy. Ussually, my lesson programme is start with a short warm up (technique exercises) to continue with different cello pieces chosen by the students. I have a lot of pop and actual music cello pieces for all levels. In addition, I'm familiar with methods like ABRSM, Suzuki, Feuillard, Duport, Popper and Piatti.

Monique
Private Piano and Violin lessons between downtown and sports city
Over the past 20 years, I have had the privilege of teaching students from diverse nationalities and backgrounds. I have worked with students from various schools, including local Hong Kong schools, Hong Kong International School, Kowloon Junior International School, and the French International School etc. I am adaptable and capable of teaching students with different personalities, whether they are highly energetic or more reserved. My primary goal is to instill a passion for music in the next generation, helping students not only grow as musicians but also as confident performers. I have guided many students to success in ABRSM exams, from Grade 1 to Grade 8, including the latest online exam format. My students consistently achieve excellent results, and feedback from past clients has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing how music has boosted their confidence and performance skills. I tailor my lessons using a variety of books based on each student’s level and needs. Please feel free to contact me for more information or inquiries. *Lessons available in English ( fluent), Cantonese(fluent), , Mandarin (fluent)and Italian (Conversational)

Mehrad
Bass Breakthrough: Transforming Players into Pros - Unlocking Your Musical Potential
Dive into the world of bass mastery with my comprehensive lessons! From mastering the groove to honing technique, delving into theory, harmony, and rhythm, and even mastering music reading and fretboard note names, these sessions cover it all. Drawing from years of experience, I've finely tuned the curriculum to suit every learner, ensuring a paced and organized approach that guarantees progress. But beyond just playing notes, the ultimate aim is to empower you with the knowledge of how music truly works. Together, we'll unlock the secrets of crafting your own basslines and solos, fostering creativity and musical independence that extends far beyond the confines of any lesson.

Meric
Ear Training for singers while improving technique
Hello! I am Meric jazz singer - musician - vocal coach and public speaking trainer. If you want to train your ear and sing those fancy notes, there is always an easy way to do that. But of course practice is vital. This class requires basic musical skills. So be sure that you are able to repeat (sing) that you hear.

Andrea
Classical and modern cello classes in Barcelona
Hello! I've been teaching continuously for over 10 years, and I'd like to explain what you can expect from a class with me. Personalized approach: The most important thing is to know what you want to achieve. I will tailor the lessons to your needs: playing for pleasure at home is not the same as preparing for entrance exams (although always with the same rigor). Your goals will influence the methodology, the organization of your studies, the repertoire, and so on. Relaxed (but rigorous) environment: Once you've defined your goals, classes will be dynamic and pressure-free. Note! "Relaxed" doesn't mean undemanding; we'll just avoid military methods—especially given my personality and sense of humor. Music, not just notes: My methods are very dynamic, with a special emphasis on hearing and musicality. No "read, play, and turn the page." I avoid approaches obsessed with reading sheet music without memorizing, listening, or understanding what is being played. I want you to own your performance and make artistic decisions. Warning! I might even make you sing. No stylistic barriers: Thanks to my training in Jazz and Modern Music, I give equal importance to all genres. Adapting to your tastes, we'll go from baroque to blues, from Haydn to bebop... or even Michael Jackson. Why not? If you identify with this approach, contact me! Learning the cello is a pleasure, and I'd love to share it with you!

Ester
Private violin lessons, Music Theory, Technical and Musical Skills
My goal is to make people of all ages and levels learn not only playing an instrument but how can music help them in their everyday life. I am an Albanian violinist, with a Bachelor degree in Classical Music (Violin) and Musicologie in Sorbonne University. Over the years, my experiences with different youth and professional orchestras all around Europe have made me understand that music is important not only for professional musicians but also for everyone. I can teach in English or French and of course in my mother tongue Albanian.

Francesco
MUSIC as you wish! DOUBLE BASS, BASS, THEORY / HARMONY
Musician since the age of 14, I have been giving lessons for more than 8 years as a private teacher. I focus on your desires, whether to improve your vocabulary (jazz or other modern genres), or learn the basics of double bass and electric bass. I pay great attention to the practical application of theoretical notions. Personalized itinerary according to the student's needs and wishes. non-exhaustive list of what we can see: - basic techniques for beginners - learning songs of your choice -develop your knowledge of the neck (scale, arpeggios, triads) -develop your ear and improvisation -develop your sense of rhythm and music theory -musical theory, composition and arrangement

Idris
Drum lessons/drum classes: for beginners/intermediate level
Want to learn to play the drums? Easy as 1,2,3. With me you will learn the basics, play along with your favorite music and build your own grooves. Preferably in my studio, but it can also be at yours. I have been behind the kit for 15 years in different styles (rock, jazz, reggae, afrobeat). If you have any questions, please feel free to send a message :)

Paula
Would you like to learn to play the violin? Violin lessons for everyone!
I am a professional violinist. I graduated with distinction at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels (Master) and hold a Bachelor Diploma from Codarts (Rotterdam). I also pursued a masters degree in Music Education at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels. I teach students of all ages and levels. I have thirteen years of teaching experience in the Netherlands and in Belgium ( privately and at music schools/muziekacademies). In my lessons I help the students to find a good contact with the instrument and cultivate a positive relationship with music by integrating the development of aural skills, sense of rhythm and an optimal body use, enabling them to connect with their musical imagination. The lessons are adapted to each student's needs and wishes.