My Career
My musical training and education has been diverse. I have had the privilege of living, studying and working in the US, France, Switzerland and England. After my early piano training in the United States, I moved to Marseilles, France where I completed my conservatoire studies. I achieved Gold Medal status in my music studies under the supervision of Pierre Barbizet and was awarded a Master of Music degree. In 1989 I decided to move to London completed studies at the Guildhall School of Music where I received a postgraduate certificate in Piano Accompaniment and an LGSM in piano teaching.
Following my studies I was employed at Kensington and Chelsea College for nine years as Music Coordinator. My experience at Kensington & Chelsea included developing the music programme for family learning. I found this an immensely rewarding activity which benefited many children and adults living in the borough.
I began working for the City Literary Institute as Head of Music in 2001 where I managed the music department. Part of my job role included teaching adults all of whom were from diverse backgrounds and abilities. Working with students and engaging with fellow colleagues was an immensely enriching experience. In addition to my formal employment, I have enjoyed teaching private piano lessons for over 25 years.
In 1999 before working at the City Lit, I decided to embark on a 6-year journey to discover the works of Henri Dutilleux, a remarkable composer I had the opportunity of studying with in France. My years as a PhD student were very challenging and I learned to go much further in my capacity as a musicologist, analysing and discovering a wealth of published and unpublished music. During that time, I also taught harmony, transcription and arrangement to undergraduate music students at Roehampton University. I continue to work as a music scholar furthering my understanding and passion for contemporary music and exploring the parallels between performance and composition.
My musical interests and my background in education, research, performance, and management have given me a unique musical experience. Other qualities I have gained from working in diverse educational settings include effective communication and organisational skills, a positive team spirit, and a commitment to quality and achievement. Over the many years as a practicing musician, I have enjoyed teaching and have fully supported students in their musical development whether it be for pleasure, exams or a career in music.
