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Discover your love for music at Barnwell Music, the top music studio in Shefford, Bedfordshire
Offering high-quality lessons in a variety of instruments, for all ages and skill levels
Director / Teacher
Piano, Singing, Guitar, Theory, GCSE, A Level
My 17 years of experience in teaching, as a private teacher, studio director and as a classroom teacher in secondary schools, has given me a wealth of experience to draw from to inform my teaching today. Music, and teaching music, is my passion and I am heavily invested in the success and progression of students, helping them to develop a love of music through engaging, student-led teaching. I work closely with students (the young, and the young at heart) and parents to create goals specific to students’ learning styles and their individual needs and interests. My teaching is adaptable, approachable, flexible and positive which helps me to support students achieve their targets in music.
Teacher
Piano, Guitar, Bass, Theory
I teach piano, guitar, bass and music theory. I always aim to teach in a fun and engaging way, while ensuring my students are learning and developing their musical skills with each lesson.
I have many years of experience with students of all ages, having worked in a secondary school performing arts department and teaching privately in the evenings. Three years ago I decided I would like to dedicate myself fully to instrumental teaching and I gained my Grade 8 in Bass Guitar and my Rockschool Level 4 Music Teaching Diploma.
My lessons are tailored to each individual student with activities, objectives and ultimately pathways that are right for them. I maintain a focus on enjoyment and always ask my students about their favourite music right from the start.
I enjoy a wide range of musical styles. For listening, my favourite composers are John Barry, Elton John and of course the Beatles. For playing, there’s nothing I like more than the blues.
Teacher
Guitar
Having played guitar in bands for over 15 years, I have developed my own style of guitar playing and songwriting. With my own varied interest in music and theory, I aim to provide a student led way of teaching, focussing on the music the students enjoy and the reasons behind their desire to play guitar.
My own interest in guitar developed from the music I enjoyed as a child, which expanded further as I got older and dug deeper into the world of guitar music and bands. Stemming from a classic rock and blues background, this quickly evolved into a wider and heavier interest in guitar based music and a passion for the guitars and equipment almost as much as the music itself.
Teacher
Guitar
Music has always been a big part of my life from an early age and I have been playing guitar for nearly 20 years. I have very eclectic musical tastes from classical, pop, blues, classic rock to more modern progressive music and metal.
I currently own 14 guitars, I know what you're thinking.... not very many (cough cough). I am always on the hunt for another one!
I have developed just as much passion for the equipment and maintenance of guitars as I have playing them.
My teaching style has always been student led. I want the students to enjoy their lessons in a fun and engaging way, as I strongly believe that if you're laughing and having fun, you're learning. I want students to be inspired to pick up their instruments and enjoy playing them, being creative with them and have a passion for discovering new and exciting ways to express themselves.
Teacher
Piano
My name is Jenny. I teach Piano and I am passionate about seeing pupils achieve their goals, with smiles and confidence-building along the way. I have taught in various capacities and facilities since 2013. This includes schools (including in different countries), small groups and one to one lessons. I make my lessons relatable, engaging and include varied activities to suit all styles of learners. It doesn't matter if the goal is exam-based or not, everyone has fun and the lessons will be tailored to suit the student.
I have taken my grades in piano and music theory, as well as completing a PGCE (QTS) with a Secondary Music specialism. I play other instruments too, such as Guitar and Clarinet, but Piano is my favourite to teach.
Office Manager
I have had an interesting career as office manager with HR and accounting
responsibilities, working mainly with small companies in the engineering and
entertainment sectors, and most recently as a school Business Manager. I enjoy
helping move small businesses forwards, and supporting the directors with their
business ideas and implementing strategies.
Music has always been part of my life, learning to read music from the age of four. I
have learned to play the piano, violin, cello and saxophone. I enjoy singing, and I
sing with two local groups, enjoying the well-known ‘choral society repertoire’ as well
as performing a cappella versions of pop, blues, folk and rock songs. I also play with
a local amateur light orchestra performing all genres of music.
In my spare time I foster pointy-nosed dogs for a local charity, until a home is offered
for them.
Our lessons are tailored to the age and musical pathway of each student, incorporating a variety of activities such as drawing, singing, listening, and discussion, alongside practical application at the piano. For young learners, we actively promote movement, singing, and abstract thinking in accordance with EYFS guidelines. We employ diverse pedagogies based on individual learning styles and the music being studied.
Singing offers a unique advantage as it allows for almost immediate engagement, unlike other instruments. However, proper guidance and instruction are crucial to develop correct technique and vocal sound. Learning to sing requires time, dedication, and guidance, even though most individuals possess the ability to sing naturally.
At Barnwell Music, our Guitar and Bass lessons offer a range of options to suit individual preferences and goals. Students can follow the traditional route, either through graded exams with ABRSM, Trinity, LCM, and MTB, or by progressing without pursuing grades. We prioritise tailoring the lessons to each student’s learning style, age, and ability, supporting them in achieving their guitar-related aspirations. We provide guidance on instrument selection for those starting out, whether they choose classical or electric guitar or bass.
Music theory plays an integral role in instrumental learning, providing a deep understanding of music’s inner workings and connections. All instrumental lessons at Barnwell Music incorporate a component of theory to support learning and comprehension. This may involve informal discussions or dedicated time for structured theory instruction.
Here’s what our customers had to say about us in our most recent surveys:
07736 901549
26 Bedford Road Shefford Bedfordshire SG17 5DJ
Our lessons are tailored to the age and musical pathway of each student, incorporating a variety of activities such as drawing, singing, listening, and discussion, alongside practical application at the piano. For young learners, we actively promote movement, singing, and abstract thinking in accordance with EYFS guidelines. We employ diverse pedagogies based on individual learning styles and the music being studied.
Many students choose to pursue graded examinations, which can be customised to their specific needs through ABRSM, Trinity, LCM, Rock School, or MTB. Exam-focused lessons provide a structured approach, considering the student’s abilities and practice time. We offer instruction in traditional, jazz, rock, pop, and musical genres based on the preferences of students and parents.
However, we recognise that the graded path may not be suitable for everyone. In these cases, we offer flexible lessons that align with the student’s interests and learning pace. These lessons are diverse and challenging, covering a wealth of knowledge and experience beyond the piano grades syllabus.
We value feedback from students and parents and regularly adjust our lessons accordingly. Our studio operates with an open-door policy, welcoming parental involvement and input during lessons and practice at home.
Singing offers a unique advantage as it allows for almost immediate engagement, unlike other instruments. However, proper guidance and instruction are crucial to develop correct technique and vocal sound. Learning to sing requires time, dedication, and guidance, even though most individuals possess the ability to sing naturally.
Our singing lessons accommodate both male and female voices, catering to students of all ages.
Within our singing lessons, students have the option to pursue graded examinations. Similar to other instruments, this path can be customised to meet individual needs by selecting an exam route from ABRSM, Trinity, LCM, Rock School, or MTB. Graded exams involve structured lessons to cover extensive exam preparation, tailored to each student’s pace, ability, and practice commitment. We offer instruction in traditional, jazz, rock, pop, and musical genres based on the preferences of students and parents.
However, we understand that the graded path may not be suitable for everyone. In such cases, we provide flexible lessons that align with the student’s interests and learning pace. These lessons offer greater variety while remaining challenging, as they encompass a wealth of knowledge and experience beyond the singing grades syllabus.
Our lesson plans are regularly shaped by student and parent feedback, ensuring responsiveness to evolving skill levels in singing. We maintain an open-door policy in our studio, welcoming parental feedback and involvement during lessons and home practice.
At Barnwell Music, our Guitar and Bass lessons offer a range of options to suit individual preferences and goals. Students can follow the traditional route, either through graded exams with ABRSM, Trinity, LCM, and MTB, or by progressing without pursuing grades. We prioritise tailoring the lessons to each student’s learning style, age, and ability, supporting them in achieving their guitar-related aspirations. We provide guidance on instrument selection for those starting out, whether they choose classical or electric guitar or bass.
For students interested in rock or pop genres, we offer support through the graded route or for those who prefer a more casual approach. Regardless of the chosen path, our lessons at Barnwell Music are customized to meet the unique needs of each student, providing engaging content suitable for all ages and skill levels. We ensure students receive a solid foundation in guitar knowledge and practical skills, regardless of their chosen pathway.
As with all our lessons, we regularly plan and adapt our guitar and bass lessons based on valuable feedback from students and parents. We maintain an open-door policy in our studio, warmly welcoming parental involvement and input during lessons and home practice.
Music theory plays an integral role in instrumental learning, providing a deep understanding of music’s inner workings and connections. All instrumental lessons at Barnwell Music incorporate a component of theory to support learning and comprehension. This may involve informal discussions or dedicated time for structured theory instruction.
For students pursuing Grade VI and above in any instrument with Associated Board (ABRSM), music theory becomes a prerequisite for entering these exams.
Additionally, we offer standalone theory lessons at Barnwell Music, employing a variety of resources and activities that often include practical elements to facilitate understanding of theoretical concepts. Lessons and content are tailored to the age, learning style, and individual needs of each student. The lessons progress at the student’s pace.
Students have the option to take theory exams to enhance their progress in practical grades or to deepen their overall theoretical knowledge. We provide exam support for ABRSM, Trinity and MTB. Moreover, we offer theory lessons for GCSE and A Level students who seek to strengthen their music theory understanding to support their school studies and exam preparations.
As with all our lessons, we regularly plan and adapt our theory lessons based on valuable feedback from students and parents. We maintain an open-door policy in our studio, warmly welcoming parental involvement and input during lessons and home practice.