Helping students become their own musicians
Individual piano tuition for committed students, from complete beginners to advanced performers
In person in South Yorkshire · Online throughout the UK and internationally
Piano lessons built around the individual
No two students learn in quite the same way.
Some need to build strong foundations from the beginning. Others already have years of experience but have reached a point where they want more from their playing, whether that is preparing for advanced examinations, developing performance skills or simply becoming a more accomplished musician.
My job is to understand where you are, where you want to go, and what will help you get there.
Lessons are therefore shaped around the individual rather than following a rigid, one-size-fits-all method.
I want to give pupils the knowledge, skills and confidence to gradually become their own musicians who are able to practise intelligently, solve problems, make musical decisions and ultimately take responsibility for their own development.
More than learning the notes
The most valuable things music can teach us go far beyond the piano.
My pupils learn technique, musicianship, repertoire and how to perform. But alongside those things, I want them to discover what it feels like to commit to something, work through the difficult bits and eventually achieve something that once seemed beyond them.
Who are the lessons for?
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For younger pupils, I want lessons to be both musically rewarding and genuinely developmental.
We can work towards grades and other goals where appropriate, but examinations are not the only measure of progress. I want students to understand what they are doing, develop good practice habits and gradually take greater ownership of their playing.
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If you are preparing for a piano examination, I offer focused preparation alongside the broader musicianship needed to make the most of the experience.
This can include:
repertoire and interpretation
technical development
sight reading
aural and theoretical understanding
performance preparation
practice planning
building confidence under pressure
The goal is not simply to learn three pieces well enough to pass an examination. It is to understand how to prepare effectively and become a stronger musician in the process.
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For more advanced pianists, lessons can become increasingly individual and detailed.
We can explore repertoire, interpretation, technique, performance preparation and the more subtle questions that emerge as your playing develops.
If you are preparing for an important performance, audition, conservatoire application or other musical goal, lessons can be tailored accordingly.
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I teach adults who are starting from scratch, returning after many years away, or simply deciding that they would like to take their playing further.
For returning pianists, I also offer Pause to Play, a dedicated programme designed to help experienced adults reconnect with the piano and rebuild confidence.
Learning in person
In-person piano lessons take place in a light and welcoming teaching space with a Schimmel C182T grand piano.
Current lesson rates
60 minutes — £60
30-minute lessons are available where appropriate, particularly for younger beginners.
Online piano lessons
High quality piano teaching doesn't have to take place in person.
I also teach pupils online, using video lessons to provide individual tuition, detailed feedback and structured practice support.
Online teaching can be particularly useful for students who live further afield or whose schedules make regular travel difficult.
Online lessons are available throughout the UK.
Why learn with Matthew?
I bring more than twenty years of teaching experience together with a professional career as a pianist, organist and singer.
My musical training includes a BMus (Hons) from Birmingham Conservatoire, postgraduate in Opera at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama and the Associate diploma of the Royal College of Organists.
My professional career has taken me from the concert platform and opera stage to cathedrals, schools and major musical institutions across the country. Appearances for BBC television and BBC Radio 3.
Professional experience is only useful in teaching if it can be translated into something that helps the student in front of me.
What pupils and parents say
“Matthew transformed me from a complete amateur to a well rounded and experienced musician. With his teaching style and enthusiasm, his insightful focus and passion for me to become a technically skilled and particular competent player, whilst instilling a vaster sense of musicianship and ability preparing me for the wider industry. His top quality teaching and love for the music really brought out the best in me.”
— Max Poyner
Ready to find out whether we're a good fit?
If you are looking for piano lessons for yourself or your child, I'd be very happy to hear from you.
Tell me a little about your current experience, what you would like to achieve and what you are looking for from lessons.
We can then arrange an initial conversation and see whether I am the right teacher for you.