A woman sitting and playing an acoustic guitar, with sunlight shining in the background.

Music Lessons in West Somerset and Taunton.

With over 20 years of teaching and professional experience as a working musician and songwriter, I teach all ages and abilities on Piano, Vocals, Acoustic Guitar and Songwriting/Performance.

 A friendly and patient teacher with a creative approach, lessons are tailored to you. Whatever your level, I can help you choose the pieces, songs and styles you want to focus on.

I teach from my home studio between between Minehead and Taunton, Somerset, but I’m happy to travel for group and workshop style tuition. I also teach online, via Zoom.

Gift Vouchers available!

About me:

Originally from Somerset, I started teaching 20 years ago whilst living in Brighton, and I’ve taught a whole range of ages, abilities and styles. An experienced piano, guitar and voice teacher, I have a 100% pass rate for the ABRSM exams and always encourage pupils to explore creatively with their playing. I’ve been a Rock School tutor, a Piano, Guitar and Vocal teacher, a Workshop Leader in arts/music for children and young people with complex neuro-disabilities, and a Coach for songwriters. I organised and hosted Songwriter Showcase events, featuring several of my students alongside other musicians in the area. I was the creator of The Music Diary, a promotional magazine for live music in the South East, and a regular performer and events promoter for Brighton Festival Fringe.

I have an honours degree in Music with Visual Practice and a diploma in Jazz performance, I also have certificates in Arts and Aging, and Vocal Health. I’ve enjoyed many years of experience performing and recording as a musician, singer and songwriter, which saw me play in many of the key venues and festivals across the UK and on BBC and local radio.

Since returning to the South West, I’ve been exploring the roles of music and movement in emotional expression and health/recovery more deeply, as I recovered from a period of ill health myself. I’ve since designed my own programme for musicians and singers that I use in my teaching, that incorporates breathing, movement and release to help alleviate stress and anxiety, centre and relax the body, and calm performance nerves.

What will I learn?

I offer lessons in:

Vocals/Performance

Guitar - Gentle, enjoyable lessons for beginners, covering fingerstyle and chords to accompany singers.

Piano - Take exams or learn just for enjoyment.

Songwriting/Recording - can also include lessons in Logic/Garage Band/Performance coaching.

Music theory - exams up to Grade 5

Lessons can happily incorporate a mix of all the above, and can easily be adapted for all ages and abilities. There can be an opportunity to try a few different instruments or styles, or just enjoy playing together.

Whatever route you choose I’ll always be sure that the important ground work is in place - necessary technique, musical theory and most importantly - ensuring that you develop a connection with your instrument and music, so that you feel confident and happy playing for years to come.

My rates are £16 per half hour.

Contact me using the form below:

  • “Cath’s expectations were high, and her pupils always responded positively to her motivating and enthusiastic approach. The children loved her, not only because she is a warm and caring person, but also because she was able to understand and help them overcome some of their difficulties and frustrations” - Dunctonwood School

  • Creative, inspiring and so encouraging - loved it!” Aralia, songwriter

  • “I honestly thought it was too late for me to even start singing, never mind actually to end up singing live in front of all those people! Thanks so much for all your encouragement!” Maddie, Vocalist

  • “Thank you so much for planning and running a great workshop at the Leavers Activity Day. The students have reported to me that it was an excellent day and they really enjoyed the workshops. We really do appreciate the time and effort you have given our students” Chailey Heritage School

  • “You actually made learning theory fun!!” Jasmine K.

  • “Thanks so much for all your patience with M - he’s got his place in college now and it’s mainly thanks to you!”

Person sitting outdoors at sunset playing acoustic guitar and writing in a notebook.
Older woman sitting at a wooden table, wearing headphones, playing an acoustic guitar, with a laptop, a potted plant, and an hourglass on the table near a window.
A person playing a black upright piano with a Christmas tree in the background.
Young girl singing with eyes closed while playing a keyboard in a cozy room.
A person playing an acoustic guitar outdoors with a bamboo fence in the background.
Two pairs of hands playing a piano, with focus on the hands and the keys.

Contact:

Get in touch to book Vocal, Piano, Guitar or Songwriting lessons!