facebook
from117.16CAD/ 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 ⊞+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 -05:00) 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 C$117.16At teacher's location
from C$117.16Online 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 -05:00) 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 C$117.16At teacher's location
from C$117.16Online 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


Francesca
Jazz and Pop Singing Lessons - Pop and Jazz Singing Lessons - Lezioni di Canto Pop e Jazz
Hello, my name is Francesca and I am David's 'assistant at the Conservatoire here in Brussels for Jazz Vocals. My lessons are preferably in english or italian but I can also manage in french. I teach techniques that are going not only tu assure you never get injured while singing, but it will be a journey that can also help you research your own voice and enjoy the possibilities of your own instrument. For those who care, I am going to give also theory lessons. Don't hesitate to contact me!

Steve
Improvisation for beginners and intermediates (any instrument)
For many people improvisation is a scary word and having to improvise in a group or band is an alarming prospect. However, this really does not need to be the case. As long as you have a basic knowledge of how to play your instrument you will be able to improvise. Once you know the principle of how chords are formed you will soon be improvising with ease. If you play a keyboard instrument you will be able to improvise your own pieces and be able to entertain your friends at a moments notice. On the other hand if you play in a band or a group you will be well equipped to do a real 'jam' session. Whether you play a single line instrument (flute, saxophone, trumpet, violin etc.) or keyboard instruments, this class is for you.

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. (SCARY) I am a Spanish pianist and composer (MMus graduated from Codarts University in both fields) with several 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 dynamism, practical approach and adaptation to the student's needs and interests. The lessons 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 in an intermediate level, which is improving day by day.

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
Cello in a nutshell: Cello lessons for everyone in Mainz and online
Music is very interesting both as a profession and as a hobby, but in the beginning we all have difficulties when it comes to playing an instrument. But with a little guidance and a bit of patience you can get the desired results... it's proven :) My name is Paula, I love teaching and working with enthusiastic people, because as I said, teaching others is actually teaching yourself ;). My bachelor's degree at the Conservatory of Ghent (Belgium) taught me what music interpretation is. At the Peter Cornelis Conservatory I learned the important basics of cello and music teaching. In recent years I have gained a lot of experience teaching cello in individual and group lessons as well as in string class lessons. The way of teaching will suit the level of the student (for beginners I divide the lessons into two parts: half basic music theory and the other half cello), and I will always have my cello with me to illustrate. If you are interested in playing this beautiful instrument, do not hesitate to write to me. Music is a beautiful game.

Maja
Violin Lessons, Music Theory, effectively cope with stage fright
I kindly and passionately lead you to: · minimize practice time and maximize progress · effectively cope with stage fright · alleviate playing-related pain Greetings! I'm Maja, a seasoned violin instructor with a decade of teaching experience. Holding a Master's degree from the prestigious Mozarteum University in Salzburg, I am dedicated to crafting personalized lessons tailored to your unique needs and talents. Over the past 10 years, I've honed my teaching approach to foster an analytical, conscious method of violin playing. My emphasis on kind correspondence ensures a comfortable and enjoyable learning experience. By employing a relaxed, step-by-step problem-solving technique, we delve into understanding how the brain learns, paving the way for your musical growth. In addition to classical music, I specialize in various genres, including world music, and offer guidance in improvisation, providing you with a diverse and well-rounded musical experience. Moreover, I can assist you in overcoming stage fright, empowering you to shine confidently in your musical performances. Having earned my MA in Salzburg, a city renowned for its musical legacy, I bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to every lesson. My ultimate goal is to equip you with the skills to independently overcome any challenges in your violin journey, making you your best teacher. Embark on this musical adventure with me, and let's create beautiful melodies together! I'm here to guide you towards self-sufficiency in your violin playing. Book your first lesson now and unlock the full potential of your musical journey!

Neda
Violin lessons, for beginners and advanced no matter the age.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, if you're here, it probably means you need support in some aspect of your music education. With a background of over 17 years of playing the violin and pedagogical experience in teaching youth, I bring the knowledge gathered from the world scene in a systematized way to the students I work with. As part of my program, you will get to know and explore: - Fundamentals: reading violin music, proper posture, intonation, scales, solfeggio, techniques and other exercises. - Violin Technique: correct posture, holding of the violin and the bow, finger and bow techniques through various exercises. - Pitch and Rhythm: recognize and notate pitches on all strings, experience diverse rhythms and meters. - Musical Vocabulary: basic musical terms and symbols. - Making music: learning to express your musicality through understanding form, dynamics, tempo and phrasing. - Repertoire: literature of various composers, understanding their style and of the epoch of theirs. Please contact me before booking a lesson so that I can understand your priorities and, in accordance with your level of experience and individual learning pace, embark on this musical journey. With the desire to build a platform for violinists together, I eagerly await you in my online classroom!

Basel
Violin Lessons for Beginners / Music Lessons
Violin lessons for beginners I can teach you the violin from scratch to professionalism, and this will include teaching musical notation, writing and reading. We can start by learning the principles of music and then gradually move to training on the violin. There will be a special book for teaching.

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.

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.

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

Dajana
Professional violinist is giving lessons of violin online! Learn to play violin and enjoy every lesson! 😊
In this violin course you will learn a foundation in learning one of the most rewarding instruments in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Grip the bow, hold the violin, have the perfect hand position and enjoy playing the strings while learning how to read the notes, the violin rhythm and technique. Students will generally learn better if they feel a connection developing with their teacher, whether that’s through humour, showing care about their development, or making sure teacher devote time equally to all students when in a group. You will not regret. 😊

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.

Nathalie
Piano (classical - jazz/pop) and/or vocal (jazz/pop) lessons
Hello and welcome to my music studio! It is absolutely fabulous that you are interested in music, and I hope you have lots and lots of fun with it! However, diving into the wonders of the piano/keyboard can be a bit overwhelming... and that is where I come in! This course is for anyone from complete beginners to advanced students, from lessons that focus completely on classical music to lessons that include or focus on the basics of jazz/pop. If you like to sing, we can also work on the basics of jazz/pop vocal, so you can learn to accompany yourself at the piano. In our lessons, technique will be an inherent part of the training, as well as analysis, basic music theory, and efficient ways of practicing music. If that all sounds good to you, then please reach out to me and we can start ASAP! Lessons can be in English or Dutch. So who am I? In a nutshell, I am a professional pianist, vocalist, lyricist and blogger. Since 2014, I have taught in various music schools, teaching piano, ensemble, jazz vocal, and solfege. On a more elaborate note, I obtained my Master of Arts in classical piano, summa cum laude, at the Royal Conservatory of Ghent (KASK) in 2017, and studied as a Fulbrighter at Indiana University Jacobs School of Music in Bloomington USA during the 2019-2020 academic year. Every day, I strive to become a better musician and person, and I aim to transfer that passion to my students.