Montgomery Crescent, Spotswood VIC, Australia
Piano Lessons | Keyboard Lessons | Aural Lessons, Theory Lessons
Bio
I’m a Melbourne-based pianist originally from Albury Wodonga. I am currently undertaking my third year of a Bachelor of Music (BMus – Piano Performance) at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music. Under the AMEB syllabus, I earned my Certificate of Performance in Piano, and later pursued an ARSM for the classical pipe organ with the ABRSM, showcasing my versatility across different musical instruments. Although my degree is quite oriented for solo classical piano performance, I enjoy playing for local ensembles and theatre companies, as well as being an accompanist for many local musicians and music groups.
Beyond my own musical pursuits, I’m equally passionate about sharing my knowledge and love for music with eager learners. As a music teacher, I strive to create a supportive and enjoyable environment where students of all ages and backgrounds can thrive. I tailor my approach to each individual’s learning style and goals, and work at the pace of the student. I aim to teach not only technical proficiency but also an appreciation for the stylistic and historical contexts of the works, so as to inspire the next generation of musicians to embark on their own musical journeys with confidence and enthusiasm for performing.
Teaching Info
In order to ensure a well-rounded education in piano – whilst maintaining engagement and commitment to lessons and personal practice – I strive to ensure balanced lessons encompassing a wide range of technical and artistic components.
Lessons will predominantly follow the guidelines and structure set out by the AMEB piano syllabus (although if the students or parents/guardians have a particular interest in a separate pathway, I am certainly open to discuss the feasibility of this). We’ll focus on both technical exercises for a small part of each lesson (scales, arpeggios and other exercises) to continually develop individual playing technique each week. The remainder of time is spent working on repertoire. This repertoire is carefully selected to be technically challenging but achievable over a period of time with the recommended daily practice discussed in the lessons.
Although not required, students will be encouraged to take the opportunities to sit at least one examination throughout the year – allowing them to have their pianistic skills assessed, as well as having a goal/milestone to work towards throughout the year or period. Lessons leading up to the examination allow me to ensure the students are as prepared as possible and are fully equiped for the examination.
If this seems like something you or your child would be interested in, please feel free to contact me through the relevant links on this page, or email me at me@thomassummerfield.com to discuss lessons further.