facebook
from121.14CAD/ 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 C$121.14At teacher's location
from C$121.14Online 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 C$121.14At teacher's location
from C$121.14Online 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


Ashlin
Learn guitar, Guitar classes, online guitar for every one. Learn Violin, Online violin for all the ages. LearnUkulele Online ukulele classes
Guitar, Violin, Ukulele, Piano is a world of fun. Join with me to play, experience And explore your Favourite Songs. I have More than 10 years of experience in Guitar,Violin, piano and in Ukulele. And Im having 5years+ experience in teaching Online. I can make your Instrumental learning in an easier way. The method I follow is easier to understand. Let's see in class.

Erika
Discover the violin and viola in Antwerp
Personalized lessons for all levels, from beginners to advanced players. Together, we'll explore the nuances of music, develop your technique, and make your instrument vibrate! As a violist with experience in national and international orchestras, I offer viola and violin lessons for all levels. Currently completing my master's degree in Belgium, I have had the opportunity to perform as a violist with orchestras such as the Orquesta Nacional de Cataluña, Belgian National Orchestra, Janáček Philharmonic Orchestra, the Orquesta Simón Bolívar, and other renowned ensembles in Europe. I offer you personalized teaching based on: The technique: acquisition of precise and effective gestures. Musicality: developing your ear and sense of rhythm. Reading: deciphering and interpreting scores. Practice: regular and methodical work. Do not hesitate to contact me for more information and to organize a first lesson!

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.

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!

John
Professional jazz musician teaching jazz, blues, funk, R&B, pop, rock, latin and classical piano.
I teach online via Zoom, using software which allows you to see the exact keys I'm playing on my keyboard. My teaching method is to focus on whatever type of music the student loves most, and to build from there. I believe that many people give up their dream of playing an instrument simply because they aren't inspired enough, so my goal is to instil a love for music, whatever that means personally for each individual student. Everyone learns differently and has their own pace and rhythm. I have some students who like to have a regular weekly or biweekly lesson, and others who just get in touch once in a while when they have digested the previous lesson and feel ready to build on it. Whatever the case, I am very flexible and we can figure out what works best for you. A bit about me: Originally honing my skills on the British jazz scene and holding residencies in restaurants and bars around the country, I then went on to tour the world playing on cruise ships, hotels and festivals. I returned to London to complete my master's in jazz piano at the Guildhall School of Music, and during this time performed regularly at Ronnie Scotts, The Vortex and many other venues across the UK. I then spent two years in South America learning about salsa and Cuban music. I now mainly work as a transcriber, writing sheet music for all instruments including full Big Band scores. I have also worked extensively in musical theatre, most recently as musical director for 'Jersey Boys', and on the first US national tour of 'Summer: the Donna Summer Musical'. The video shown below is from my stint playing and directing 'After Midnight', a show set to the music of the Duke Ellington Big Band.

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.

Abel
..Violin and Music Theory Lessons for All Levels..
Experience Matters Join me, Abel, an accomplished violinist proudly associated with Residentie Orkest Den Haag. With a rich performing and teaching violin background, I'm here to share my insights and help you reach new heights in your musical journey. Tailored Learning Approach No matter your level of expertise, I believe in a personalized approach to learning. From beginners taking their first bow to advanced players seeking finesse, my lessons are carefully crafted to match your pace, style, and aspirations. Embarking on a Melodic Journey While the technique is essential, the violin is also a vehicle for artistic expression. We'll explore the emotional depth and artistic expression that genuinely make the violin a captivating instrument. Let's play melodies that resonate with your soul. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, together we'll craft a harmonious learning journey that's uniquely yours. Take the first step and embark on this musical adventure with me.

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!

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

Nina
Start To Sing! Inspiring, inclusive singing class.
Discover the joy of singing with "Start to Sing!", a welcoming, inspiring and inclusive beginner’s class led by experienced vocalist and educator Nina. Whether you’ve never sung before or want to build confidence in your voice, this class will help you develop essential techniques like breath control, pitch, and expression in a fun, supportive environment. With Nina’s engaging approach, you can explore a variety of musical styles spanning over 100 years, from Pop, Soul, Jazz, Folk, Latin, R&B, Blues, Rock, and more—so there’s something for everyone! No sheet music? No problem! Nina’s intuitive teaching style focuses on learning by ear and feeling the music, making singing accessible to all. Whether a complete beginner or a returning student of music, whether you dream of performing on stage or just want to sing for fun, this class will give you the skills and confidence to find your unique voice. Is it fun to play? Join now and discover your musical journey today!

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 :)

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.

Stefano
Singing Lessons (Individual) - Pop, Jazz, Soul, Blues, Rock
Get ready to take charge of your own musical journey with my classes! You'll have the freedom to choose what you want to study, how you want to learn, and which approach best suits your individual style. Together, we'll create a personalized plan that will take you step-by-step towards your designated goals, with my unwavering support every step of the way. I'll teach you a variety of singing techniques and help you discover your own unique voice. No two singers are the same, so I'll adapt to your needs and provide personalized guidance to help you surpass your goals! Are you ready to unleash your full potential and take your singing to the next level? Join my classes today and let's get started on this exciting musical journey together! I strongly believe that the voice is an all-powerful instrument. It converts the invisible into the visible; it transforms emotions into sounds. The voice is subject to continuous evolution. It's a beautiful instrument that offers so many possibilities in terms of expansion.