Ian M J Pickett - Swindon Piano Teacher, Accompaniment and Theory Lessons

Welcome

First Steps

About

Teaching

Resources

Performance

Exams

Info

Accomp

Samples

Testimonials

Enquiry

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WelcomeWelcome to my website!Whether you are about to embark on your musical journey or at the stage where you are able to tackle advanced repertoire, having an experienced and friendly professional can help determine whether your musical aspirations are realised. Alongside the teaching of practical skills, I can also provide help with harmony, history, analysis, and composition; aspects which often feature in GCSE, and 'A' level music, and graded theory exams. I can also help non-pianists with their aural skills and provide piano accompaniment for examinations.Take your time to explore my website - get to know more about who I am and what I can contribute to your studies. You will find lots of information here to help you make an informed decision. Should you have any remaining queries, please do not hesitate to call, email, or submit an enquiry.I look forward to meeting with you soon.Ian M J Pickett

First Steps First StepsMusical HorizonsEverybody has a different motivation for wanting to play a musical instrument. For some, their choice of instrument is shared by an appreciation of a particular style of music; others decide to learn simply because their friends or relatives play already. Yet in the majority of cases, the principal deciding factor is the sound it makes - and who could fail to be impressed by the beautiful and persuasive, yet complete sound of the modern pianoforte: an instrument that is as sympathetic to jazz and contemporary idioms as it is to classical repertoire. But regardless of your reasons for considering the instrument, when the time comes to start your lessons, think carefully about choosing an experienced and qualified professional. Any amateur musician can correct mistakes but only a professional teacher with specialist knowledge and skills will understand what it takes to develop your playing across a more expansive and challenging plane. With so many teachers to choose from, it is never easy knowing which one is right for you. Nevertheless, I hope after exploring my website you decide to take lessons with me. I can't promise that the path ahead is an easy one; however, with patience and dedication, it is hoped your journey will be both enjoyable and immensely rewarding.

About About meSwindon-born pianistSwindon-born pianist Ian M J Pickett has been playing the instrument for almost twenty-five years, and has been teaching professionally since 2000. His musical education is a wide and varied one, both at undergraduate and postgraduate level. Throughout his first degree, Ian explored a number of subjects including musicology, harmony, analysis, composition and piano accompaniment. In his final year, he specialised in performance under the direction of John Parry, and gave a 45-minute public recital of works by Beethoven, Debussy and Liszt, for which he was awarded a First. He later embarked on postgraduate studies at the University of Reading and was awarded an MA in Theory and Analysis for his research on the neo-classical tendencies in Debussy's Pour le piano and the historical application of rubato in Chopin. His professional activitesAt the start of his career, Ian taught as a peripatetic teacher for the local Music Service and gained experience in providing instrumental tuition in schools, both at primary and secondary level. As his client base grew, with an influx of enquiries from more students wanting lessons during the day, Ian decided to concentrate on developing his business as an independent teacher working from his home studio. Ian takes a keen interest in all aspects of music education and has written several articles and opinion pieces, many of which were published in Music Teacher. His latest article, 'Motivational Aspects and the Beginner Mindset', looks at the subject of motivation and explains why it is vital for teachers to trigger an emotional response in their students. It was published by London College of Music Examinations for its journal Forte in January 2011. Memberships and other informationIan is a Member of the Incorporated Society of Musicians and is listed on its Register of Professional Private Music Teachers. He has previously served on the committee for the ISM Wiltshire centre, and was an appointed examiner with Edexcel. Since 2007, Ian works for London College of Music as its Area Representative. Ian also holds a Licentiate diploma in piano performance and a DipLCM in piano accompaniment.

Teaching TeachingFrom beginner to professional levelWorking with a variety of different students not only enhances the work I do as a teacher but gives students the reassurance that their teacher can look after their needs as their musicality develops. Whether the student is a beginner taking their first steps or a more experienced pupil working towards a professional diploma, each is taught with the same level of enthusiasm, patience and attentiveness to ensure that lessons are not only rewarding but musically productive. Open to ideasStudents will experience an interesting and broad programme of study that will not only sustain their interest but embrace new skills and techniques along the way. Although many students take lessons to concentrate on Classical repertoire, jazz and other contemporary styles may also be incorporated into their lessons, if this is of interest. Whilst I believe it is important to offer variety to ensure students receive a wider musical education, it is essential that each student enjoys what they play and has a natural affinity for the chosen music. Only then will they strive and triumph over the challenges set before them.Beginners are welcomeBeginners will tend to follow a common programme of study to establish a secure technical and musical foundation. Just as soon as the basics are mastered, beginners will be given a range of interesting repertoire to choose from to ensure that they remain motivated and focused throughout this challenging stage in their learning. Throughout the beginner programme, elementary duet work will form part of lessons. This is not only very rewarding for the student but helps develop their listening skills and rhythmic competency in a fun and musical way. The ability to read music at sight is an important musical skill but one that many beginners find challenging. Full support and will be given to ensure that students have the confidence to pick up a simple piece of music and make sense of it. The importance of theoryTo enable students to make sense of all those dots in a succinct and manageable way, students are encouraged to develop a positive approach to the study of music theory. Music literacy gives students the ability to talk about music with confidence and to become more skilful musicians. The amount of time that students need to spend on theory need not be very much to be beneficial, so it is important that prospective students are not put off by the thought of having to study some theory! Rest assured: my teaching stance will always be one that places emphasis on practical work. I just want to ensure that each and every student has the best possible opportunity to acquire the skills necessary for future musical success.For more information about theory tuition at advanced level click here.

Resources

ResourcesPlay on a superb grand pianoGiving students the opportunity to learn on a top-of-the-range German grand piano is a real bonus for any piano student. With its rich and distinct piano sound, you will soon appreciate the fine materials and well-respected German craftsmanship that makes the IQ99 instrument sound so good. The perfect opportunity and incentive to play to your very best in every lesson! Support from a dedicated websiteThe Private Students' Music Domaint (PSMD) is a support tool that I have designed to bridge the gap between lessons. It features a wide variety of useful resources for the beginner and more experienced pupil alike, including advice on instrument purchase and care, technical skills and posture, concert opportunities, examination syllabuses and ways to prepare for them and exam results. To help students discover new piano repertoire many aural examples have been recorded personally for the PSMD repertoire database. Each student will have the opportunity to build a profile that can be shared with other current pupils, which records their examination successes and contribution to concerts. Students can also see what others have been learning. The PSMD was featured in Music Teacher back in 2004. Composition and Recording facilitiesTo help students with composition I have invested in the full version of Sibelius 5 - the industry standard music notation software used by students in schools, colleges and universities. Students can bring their conceptual ideas with them to the lesson where further work may continue using the software. Access to printing is available to all students, along with the usual PC-based facilities. Performances may be recorded using video or microphone if required by the student - this is particularly useful to help improve stage presence and to reflect upon the performance given.Music books, scores, and recordingsI have a range of educational resources available for demonstration or short-term loan. From basic books on music theory to advanced texts on counterpoint, historical performance, musicology and analysis, students can enhance their studies in many ways. I possess a fairly large collection of classical scores and many CDs to sharpen your critical and interpretative skills. Students may access Spotify or other Internet resources if they need to during lessons.

Performance

PerformanceStudent concertsOur bi-annual student concerts provide every pupil with the opportunity to showcase their skills before an enthusiastic and supportive audience of friends and family. Whether the student ventures up there to play a simple duet alongside their teacher, or has built up the confidence to play a solo, each is guaranteed a warm welcome. Such performance opportunities help develop each student's musicality and gives them a sense of pride in the work they do. After the event, a post-concert supper follows at a local restaurant, allowing students to mix socially and relax after the event. Professional recitalsA live professional recital can be stimulating and, at times, mesmerising even. Yet, it seems few students ever get to hear one live. To encourage students to support the arts, as well as to develop their knowledge of the repertoire, I provide details of must-see events in the region. Trips are arranged once or twice a year, according to the level of interest shown. Students find that attending a professional concert both inspirational and educational. In recent years events have included Russian virtuosos Nikolai Demidenko and Dmitri Alexeev; the technical brilliance of French pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet; ex-Leeds International Winner, Kathryn Stott; and young rising star on the classical piano scene Simon Trpceski. The opportunity to hear quality live performances within the company of other like-minded pupils certainly adds a further dimension to instrumental study.Adult piano workshopIf you find playing for your family or friends as nerve wracking as playing for your teacher the Adult Piano Workshop (APW) is there to help you improve your confidence. The APW meets every six weeks or so to provide opportunity for beginners or those with more established skills to hear each other play in friendly and informal surroundings. The APW is run by Martin Beaver, one of my loyal adult pupils, who understand some of the difficulties and frustrations students experience. By restricting the workshops to only those who take lessons with me, the workshops are always small, friendly and inviting. It doesn't matter whether you come along to play two lines or two pages; or if you just want to come along to listen and support others the APW will give you the support you need to develop musical confidence. Local music festivalsThe annual Music Festivals in Swindon and Oxford, and the Wootton Bassett Arts Festival, provide the more competitive student the chance to demonstrate their musical talents before an audience and a panel of adjudicators. Each competition or class sets a specific piece, composer, or age range/level, and competitors are required to play to their very best standard in order to win the trophy. Over the years, several of my students have won classes and some trophies. Entry is purely at the student's discretion.

Exams

ExaminationsA goal to aspire towardsWorking towards a music examination is a positive experience for many students. Not only does an examination provide candidates with a sense of focus and direction but it gives them the discipline and confidence to play better. It is also a great way to develop some of the supplementary skills that will lend greater depth to their musicianship, including sight-reading, scales, and aural perception, as well as written examinations. GradedExaminations are offered in a wide variety of subjects at Introductory, Graded and Diploma level, as appropriate to each student's musical aspirations and needs. Most students will sit graded examinations in piano and music theory as two separate subjects; however, students are welcome to pursue alternatives such as jazz piano, piano accompaniment, piano duet, leisure play, or composition. Full details regarding exam options can be found on the PSMD website, which may be accessed when you become a student. DiplomaSome students pass Grade 8 and move on to the diploma ladder, both for personal satistfaction and, sometimes, as a foundation for a career in music. Examinations may be taken in either Performance, Teaching or Piano Accompaniment at DipLCM, ALCM or LLCM level. Understandably, at this level students will be expected to adopt a more disciplined approach to practice and to take every opportunity to develop their skills and gain experience in performing. Although candidates taking the teaching route would not be expected to play to a standard as high as those taking the performance diplomas, it is expected that students can demonstrate the ability to teach effectively and an awareness of suitable teaching repertoire. Students will need to show familarity with teaching methods and also gain experience in teaching a range of pupils. Full support will be given to all diploma candidates, however, the importance of independent study and reflection is vital for success.About the exam boardLondon College of Music (LCM) offers accredited qualifications at both graded and diploma level and is the preferred choice for my students' examinations. The LCM, founded in 1887, operates a full-time conservatoire of music in Ealing, West London, offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in music, as well as an external examinations department. With over 250 centres in the UK and overseas, the LCM is an international examining body. The LCM Swindon centre operates three times a year, which I preside over as part of my duties as Area Representative.

Info Frequently Asked QuestionsHow much time will I need to devote to my studies?Learning to play a musical instrument is both intellectually stimulating and enriching yet it does require a great deal of personal commitment - often more than most beginners initially imagine. To make consistent progress and to ensure your lessons are enjoyable and as rewarding as possible, sufficient preparation is necessary before the weekly lesson. The length of practice necessary varies from pupil to pupil, however, a beginner should ideally spend at least 30 minutes a day practising. Advanced pupils will inevitably spend a lot longer in private study. What is the optimum age in which to start learning the piano? When is somebody considered 'too old' to learn? Starting piano lessons at a young age can be advantageous for the talented beginner yet it has its drawbacks for the less able. Learning to co-ordinate the hands and to read the music (and all the thought-processes that this requires) is a huge challenge for many beginners and, therefore, when progress is slow, young children get easily frustrated. In my experience, pupils of 10 years and above seem to be the best candidates to contemplate learning the piano. However, there is no upper age limit, and pupils of senior age prove equally successful as their younger counterparts. How much scope is there to tailor piano lessons to my own interests and capabilities?Beginners tend to follow a common programme to help develop essential performance skills and their understanding of music and, therefore, there is a limited degree of flexibility at this stage. I will discuss a range of strategies with each student, taking in to account any previous experiences (perhaps on another instrument), and outline the various publications that are on offer. There will be opportunity to sit piano and music theory examinations, however, this is not compulsory and I understand that not every student finds this dimension to learning necessary. When sufficient technical skills have been acquired it is possible to specialise in a particular style of music and, where possible, I will try to form a programme that suits your interests. I will endeavour to embrace a wide variety of styles and genres to offer the greatest rewards to your musicality. Are piano lessons expensive? Is group tuition a better, low-cost alternative?Learning to play the piano is unlikely to cost any more than any other weekly leisure activity. Although group tuition may seem attractive with its reduced fee, it is easy to get lost within a group environment. One-to-one tuition with a specialist teacher often proves better value for money in the long term as bad habits are quickly indentified. Will I need a piano immediately?I am sympathetic to parents and adult students who are reluctant to buy a piano. Yet, it is important to emphasise that an electronic keyboard can only really serve as a very short-term solution. The response, touch and sound of a traditional piano are completely different to that of an electronic keyboard, and for students to develop a competent technique, there remains no alternative. A digital piano, however, is a worthy consideration if space or noise is an issue. I am happy to provide assistance in your search for an instrument and have good contacts in the business, ensuring you get a competitive price. Some students decide to rent a piano.What books or materials do I need?Full details will be given to you at your first lesson, as this will depend largely upon your level of experience. If you're a complete beginner, you should anticipate to spend around £20 on various books needed for your lessons. I can obtain any books or materials you require.Is it compulsory to take exams and participate in the concert events?Not at all. I have always maintained the opinion that students should be free to make their own decisions. All I can say is that an exam will undoubtedly give you a goal to aim towards and make you more disciplined. The concert events, similarly, will make your learning of a musical instrument more social and give you the confidence to play better. There is also the Adult Piano Workshop which is open to all, if you do not wish to participate in a concert. Whether you take up any of these opportunities is entirely up to you. I only provide them to give you the best possible chance of making a success of your studies.And what's the minimum contract?Lessons may be taken on a flexible basis without the need for a contract. If, however, you would like a weekly appointment to be made for you, payment in advance is required. Students receive a 10% discount on these terms compared to the flexible rate. If you wish to relinquish your lessons, all I ask is one month's notice in writing.Are all lessons conducted from your home studio? Where is this situated?Yes. I am located on the east side of Swindon, close to the A419. My exact location on Google Maps can be viewed here.

Accomp Piano AccompanimentCompleting the ensembleMany believe that a pianist is the same thing as an accompanist. Simply playing the accompaniment without interaction with the other soloist is not only bad practice but unmusical. And for the candidate about to sit an examination or concert, having a sympathetic and musical accompanist is essential for a polished and stress-free performance.I have worked with a number of instrumentalists and singers over the last ten years and always enjoy this aspect of my work. I recently took a diploma examination to check my skills were in order.The examiner commented that 'the soloists were always supported: a recital of distinction'. Should you need an accompanist for an examination or, perhaps, you have been placed in a situation where you need to accompany somebody for the first time, please call or email to see if I may be able to help you.Examples of accompaniment work: Over The Rainbow A House is Not a Home

Samples

VideoSee and hear my students play...Footage taken from a live concert given by students on Saturday 17 December 2011.
Audio Hear me playHere is an extract from the Liszt finale that I performed as part of the 45-minute public recital assessment at the end of my BA (Hons) Music degree. [Venue: Michael Tippett Centre, Bath on June 8th 1999].Hear my students playOur bi-annual concerts provide remarkable opportunites for students of all ages and abilities to play before an enthusiastic and supportive audience. The following excerpts illustrate the range of styles students are taught - everything from Bach to Bartok, and jazz and minimalism. Footage from December 2010 concert

IMJ: Liszt - Vallee d'Oberman

Queen of Sheba [duet]

Chopin: Nocturne

Norton: Rock Prelude

Diversion

Scarlatti: Sonata

Chopin: Minute Waltz

Testimonials TestimonialsFeedback from studentsI have asked some of my current and past students to describe the contribution I have made to their studies. Here is what they had to say...
Learning the piano with a professional teacher will save you a huge amount of time. Ian will quickly spot flaws in your playing that you may be completely unaware of and fix them before they become ingrained. Ian has always been very supportive and patient, providing a structured programme tailored to your musical goals. Martin BeaverI remember being very anxious during my first few lessons, but Ian was the perfect teacher to make me feel at ease. He allowed me to work at my own pace and gave me all the support and encouragement that I needed. I soon fell in love with playing the piano. Without Ian's help, knowledge, patience, cheerful and relaxed manner I would never had gone to university to study music. Hannah BrownIan has a deep knowledge and understanding of both the repertoire and the problems faced by students as they progress, which can be lacking in less experienced teachers. In less than two years, Ian has developed my musical skills allowing me to progress through grades 6-8, all with excellent marks. He has also gives students performance opportunities to ensure they get the most from their lessons.Simon CoxLewis has always looked forward to his lessons with Ian, ever since his first one at the age of seven. During the course of seven years, Lewis progressed through the piano grades and achieved many distinctions, including one at grade 8. Lewis finds playing the piano a source of relaxation away from his school work. It has also allowed him to make new friends at school and gain respect from his teachers. Lewis has performed in many of Ian’s students’ concerts, which has helped develop his confidence and self-esteem. This has contributed to his success in local music competitions, in which he has won cups and trophies; he was also runner-up in the Junior Section of the Swindon Young Musician of the Year, some years ago, and this year will compete in the Europa Youth District Music competition. Thanks to Ian’s guidance and enthusiasm the piano now plays a big part in his life, and it is hoped it will for many years to come. Dr Thi Sayle [parent of Lewis]It was refreshing working with Ian as my accompanist. He is a generous and sensitive pianist who really cares about supporting the soloist and understanding what they want to do with the music. To be accompanied by a confident and artistic pianist who feels, and is interested in, the moods and tone of the pieces as much as the soloist, is a real bonus. Tamsin KennardI began studying piano with Ian about in 2007 after a break of many years whilst I raised my family and worked. I wanted to play this beautiful instrument again and experience the magic of Schubert, Debussy , Bach and many others. Ian encouraged me every step of the way and has always been a positive, patient and professional tutor. Ian makes you realise what you can make possible and, this summer in 2011, I successfully passed my DipLCM. I am truly grateful for Ian’s help and support.Suzanne Metcalfe BMus DipLCM

Enquiry EnquiryNext stepThanks for visiting my website. I do hope it has answered many of your questions about who I am and the work I do. If you would like to proceed further why not email or call me on 01793 322171 to discuss your studies. This will give you to the opportunity to tell me a little bit about yourself and the stage you're at with your music. Don't worry, this will not place you under any obligation to take lessons - it's merely your chance to find out more information. All that remains is to thank you, again, for visiting my website and to wish you every success with your music.All good wishes,Ian M J Pickett

Theory TheorySupporting students at GCSE, 'A' Level and beyondStudents who take music at GCSE or 'A' level are sometimes quite surprised by the range of skills they need to develop alongside their daily practice. This may include composition, arrangement, analysis, harmony, counterpoint, analysis, as well as a good understanding of music history and its trends. Such components are often tested in theory examinations at grade and diploma level. Advanced theoryWith a range of relevant theoretical qualifications, such as Grade 8 theory and a research degree in analysis and historical performance, I am able to support students in a wide range of areas. I also took advanced modules in composition during my BA (Hons) Music degree course (before opting to specialise in performance), so I am familiar with some of the contemporary techniques expected. To account for each student's strengths and weaknesses, lessons will be tailormade to ensure relevancy. Some typical questions...Do you take students and prepare them for GCSE or 'A' level independently of the school/college system?No. Students need to take such courses at a school or college and be entered by the institution. I can only help support students who are struggling in composition, harmony, analysis, history, and aural perception. My child has limited theory knowledge but needs Grade 5 theory in order to take a higher grade practical exam. Do you offer a fast-track option?Yes. However, the speed at which this qualification can be achieved will vary according to the aptitude of the child and the amount of time and effort they can devote to this task. However, I do have a number of online resources to help with this task.I am struggling with writing a Bach chorale and other harmony tasks expected of me at 'A' level'. Is this something you can help me with?Yes. However, there is no substitute for plenty of practice and learning the basic principles. So be prepared to work hard! Can you help with composing?Composition is a creative and personal process, so it is important that teachers do not impinge their own ideas upon their students. I can certainly help students take their conceptual ideas and develop them into structured compositions, as well as to provide help with melodic and harmonic skills. I do not, however, write compositions for students so they can pass off my work as their own for the purposes of passing an examination! Can you help with the essay writing and the analytical work expected at GCSE or 'A' Level?I can help students by teaching them to use appropriate musical vocabulary and general advice on essary writing, however, it is unlikely that I will be familiar with the set works unless they are in an area I am particularly experienced in. My areas of expertise are 19th-century Chopin, Aspects of Romanticism, Debussy and Impressionism. Anything analytical or piano-related, similarly, matches my skill set. How much do you charge for lessons and/or marking of work?My usual hourly rate or pro rata applies. The marking of work that you request to be marked outside of the lesson will incur a charge, although this will be at a reduced rate. Details will be given.

MA BA (Hons) LNCM DipLCM MNCM

Piano, Theory & Accompaniment

Member of the Incorporated Society of Musicians
Listed on the ISM Register of Professional Private Music Teachers