OUR TEACHERS
"Teaching at Music House for Children is so rewarding "
Our teachers are chosen for their unique ability to bring out children’s musicality. Different musical styles taught include pop, rock and jazz. Our 70+ teachers teach in homes, schools and nursery settings. Every teacher is interviewed with references and DBS applications checked.
Aine McLoughlin
London based multi-instrumentalist Aine McLoughlin is not your typical musician. Born and raised in Mullagh Co Cavan, Ireland, she realised from an early age that though she could turn her hand to many instruments (including the guitar and piano), her real passion was for a lesser-loved instrument - the accordion.
Starting lessons at just 11 she instantly fell in love with the instrument, and has since competed (and won) many international solo, ensemble and orchestral competitions. After graduating as an accordion teacher, she also appeared on many national and international television shows performing and teaching her beloved instrument.
Since moving to London in 2015, Aine has recorded in Abbey Road, Air and Konk studios, and has covered everything from classical and folk, to contemporary and pop. She's played in top London venues, including Union Chapel and the National Theatre, and has performed in ensembles, chamber orchestras, operettas, traditional folk groups, Scottish ceilidhs, Irish Ceili pub sessions and French cafe jams (to name a few).
She also manages to find the time to perform in the London Accordion Orchestra (under the musical direction of Ian Watson), be a member of modern folk band Hazel Iris, and work on a solo project - a series of compositions to highlight the beauty, simplicity and many techniques of acoustic accordion.
Aine is determined to revive the education of accordion with young people, and is currently working on a number of projects and applying for funding to make this happen. She puts her success down to a unique mix of accordion performance, education and music technology, plus a healthy dose of obsession for the instrument. She has no doubt that it's possible to incorporate accordion in to any style of music, and is looking forward to experimenting more in the future!
Alex Scheuerer
Guitar
From Switzerland, I am a guitarist and teacher. I studied for a BA Hons in London in 2010 and began teaching for Music House for Children in 2012. I believe that every person is different and learns in their own way to which I adjust using a range of visual and/or auditory mediums, transmitting knowledge through theory and games.
One of my proudest moments was taking a girl that had never played guitar before to complete her grade 8 in less than four years. Seeing her developing as a guitarist was really rewarding as a teacher!
Anastasia Vaina
Violin | Piano
Originally from Greece, I graduated from the State Conservatory of Music with the National Violin Diploma, distinction and 1st prize. Being a member of the European Union Youth Orchestra for 4 years gave me the opportunity to meet musicians from all over the world, work with the most established conductors and perform in the most prestige venues of Europe.
Having moved to London I continued my studies at the Royal Academy of Music receiving a scholarship for young Greek musicians. During my studies I discovered that music has not only changed my life but changes the life of everyone around me, everyone who allows music fill their soul. This was the moment when I discovered that teaching music satisfied me equally with performing in public. Having several students of all levels and ages I realised that music captivates you as well as sets one free. It is a reciprocal relationship that I am bound for life.
Violin performance engages the physical, the psychological, and the musical abilities of the player. My fundamental principle of violin teaching, based on natural physical motions nurtured in a non-judgmental environment, embodies all three of these elements of performance. The development of a facile and secure technique begins with physical freedom. This then gives the performer the freedom to play with musical sensitivity and confidence. My best teaching moment is when I see my student progressing, play a piece desirably and achieve a great standard of playing, but above all enjoy music!
Arianne Rooney
Horn | Trumpet
I was born in London but raised in Perth, Australia. Having rock musicians as parents I grew up in a very diverse musical family. My father taught me the drums from a very young age before I begged to take up the violin aged 9. I only discovered the Horn when I went to high school, a specialist music school called Perth Modern School, and I immediately loved it! When I realised I could play the horn for a living and one day teach others music was probably the best day of my life.
I went on to study at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music before moving back to London to complete my Masters of Music at the Royal College of Music. Whilst at the college I participated in sit-in-schemes with the Philharmonia Orchestra and the London Symphony Orchestra Brass Academy. Since graduating I have performed in a range of professional orchestras and ensembles, including the Welsh National Opera, Australian Chamber Orchestra's Barbican residency, performing at the BBC Proms with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra and theatre productions such as 'Les Miserables' and 'The Wizard of Oz'. I have also been fortunate enough to travel and perform in some amazing places such as Mumbai, Vienna, Berlin and Cologne.
I have been teaching the horn for over 5 years, and other brass for 3 years, and I absolutely love it! I have taught all levels from beginner to diploma level and cater each lesson to the student's needs. I am new to the Music Hub this year and very excited to be on board!
Brenda Dor-Groot
Harp
I am from the Netherlands and have been classically trained at the conservatories of Rotterdam, The Netherlands and Cologne, Germany. I went on to specialize in jazz, blues and improvisation.
I co-founded the International Jazz Harp Foundation and taught numerous workshops covering the basics of these for the harp quite unusual genres. I work to continually develop my unique individual teaching method, which incorporates classical technique & musicianship as well as improvisation, playing by ear, and chord and scale knowledge from the very start. Individual interests and personality of the student greatly influence the personalized lesson plan and choice of repertoire. My goal is to enjoy playing the harp, and become a versatile and confident player who can soon enjoy an even greater goal: making music together!
Catriona McDermind
Bassoon | Piano | Singing | Early Years
Originally from North Yorkshire, I progressed through the National Children’s and Youth Orchestras of Great Britain and then continued my studies reading Music at Lincoln College, Oxford, graduating with first-class honours as well as receiving a distinction for my masters degree studying the bassoon at Royal College of Music.
I now freelance as both a modern and baroque bassoonist, recently playing with ensembles such as BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and Florilegium. As a soloist I have given several concert performances, and am currently a recitalist for Countess of Munster Musical Trust and Handel House Talent Scheme.
I strongly believe in the importance of education and community work and regularly work on and lead a variety of projects, for example a long-standing Roald Dahl themed project with Magnard Ensemble, and projects with Worshipful Company of Musicians, Sinfonia Cymru and Wigmore Hall. I am an experienced teacher of the bassoon, piano, singing and early years and I am delighted to have joined the wonderful team at Music House for Children!
Charalampos Margaritidis 'Babis'
Drums
I started playing professionally at the age of 16, gigging all around Greece before relocating to London 15 years ago to study at London College of Music and Media under great tutors such as: Paul Elliot, Pete Cater, Darryn Farugia and Bosco Di'Oliviera.
After graduating with a BMus Hons Degree I started teaching privately as well as in schools. During my 3 years at Drumtech I specialised in latin and mediterranean percussion. I also works as a session drummer all around London and perform with my own band Jade Vine.
I have been teaching with Music House for Children for over 12 years.
Cedric Cosendey
Guitar | Voice
I am a Swiss singer, guitar player & songwriter, specialising in rock & metal, with a background in every style. I have taught at Music House For Children since 2015.
Having learnt Classical guitar, I turned to electric guitar, forming a rock cover band in Geneva. In 2001 I studied guitar & Vocals at BIMM (formally Tech Music School).
Camilla Merchant
Flute
As a keen orchestral player with a wealth of performing experience, I work as a freelance musician and teacher. I have played with numerous orchestras, and as a flautist worked as principle flute in the RAM Symphony Orchestra. I continue to perform regularly with my chamber group the Njord Trio as well as juggle my career as a teacher with Music House for Children.
I teach a wide range of ages and abilities, including at Kings College London and Music House for Children. Many of my pupils have achieved high grades in exams, from beginner up to degree level.
Ella Emery
Ukulele | Piano | Early Years | Flute | SEN
I graduated with a first class honours degree in Music in 2013 and have since been working with children and adults with Autism, learning disabilities and dementia. Music is an excellent way of communicating and I believe learning an instrument or engaging in music opens up this opportunity.
My first study is the flute and I play a lot of improvised music with small ensembles. Continuing my own musical journey, I am training as a Music Therapist. I am passionate about giving my students well-rounded musicianship: playing, listening, reading music and making their own music. This can be at any level, you're never too young or too old to start!
I started working with Music House for Children in September 2018 and enjoy the playfulness of the lessons.
Erin Robinson
Violin / Piano
I am a composer and performer from London and recently graduated from the University of York with a 1st class degree in music and am currently doing my MA in composition. My main instrument is the violin, but I also play the piano, saxophone and sing.
As a child, I played in several youth orchestras in London including the Barbican Young Orchestra in which I was conducted by the likes of Sir Colin Davis and Simon Rattle. I love everything to do with arts and culture - you can normally find me at the theatre or at a contemporary art gallery!
My own work is based in electronic sound art with participatory and visual elements and I have had several pieces and installations performed at festivals around the UK including the recent Make More festival in London.
I have been teaching for a number of years and have experience with one on one instrumental and whole class musical skills teaching. I have only recently started working with Music House for Children, but I love all their outlook on music education through creativity for children of all ages!
Essa Flett
Violin | Viola | Recorder | Piano | Cello | Guitar | Percussion | SEN | Early Years
From Scotland, I moved to London to study Classical recorder at the Guildhall. My BMus was completed in 2017 and I am now a freelance teacher and musician who also loves performing with folk bands, and as a solo artist.
I have been involved in community music groups since an early age, and began teaching at Music House for Children in 2017. The staff work with a great amount of enthusiasm, good humour and professionalism. The children are always put first and every single music session is planned with careful consideration, genuine interest and investment in the material that will be taught and shared.
In my spare time I enjoy reading, writing, watching films and drawing cartoons.
One of my favourite teaching moments was when a violin pupil of mine, one who really struggled overall, wanted to learn Jingle Bells. After weeks of working hard he played it all the way through in front of his Mum and sister and everyone cheered! His triumphant face was a really wonderful thing to see and spurs me on.
Heidi Wiseman
Piano | Flute
I am an accomplished pianist and a dedicated teacher based in West London. I was educated in Hong Kong and the United Kingdom, and hold an MA in Music.
After many years of working in the orchestra and various arts groups as a marketer and communications manager, I have rediscovered my calling as a teacher and a love for the instrument I grew up with. I am experienced in working with young beginners as well as adult refreshers.
Imogen Royce
Flute
I am flautist studying at the Royal College of Music. I grew up in a very musical family in Manchester; my mum is a violinist in the Halle Orchestra, my dad is an ex-opera singer and my sister is a freelance violinist! So I chose to be different by learning the flute when I was 9.
I started working for Music House for Children in 2017, through a friend's recommendation. I love working for MHfC because it's always great to see and encourage other people's joy for music. It's such a rewarding experience to feel like you've helped another person in any way, and for me helping people to learn and enjoy music is doubly rewarding!
Apart from music I love to bake, read and travel. I occasionally enjoy exercising but it's always a bit of a push!
Jakub Tucholski
Guitar | Ukulele
I grew up in Poland and moved to London in July 2007 to pursue my love and passion for music. After completing my degree at London College of Music, I landed my first teaching job with Music House for Children in 2011.
As a musician, I’ve toured UK and Europe with different bands, played a sold out Shepherds Bush Empire, recorded in reputable studios around UK and even had a chance to play on Freddy Mercury’s piano. When not teaching or performing, I compose film music and work on other creative projects. Music has always been my passion, and sharing the knowledge and experience I have acquired over the years brings me a lot of fulfilment and joy. My students have always excelled in exams with only merits and distinctions.
Joanna Patrick
Violin | Viola | Piano | Voice | Early Years
I am a West London-based musician from Surrey, and started teaching the Violin and Piano at Music House for Children in 2017. I am an active orchestral and chamber musician and have played the Viola in the UK and across Europe, appearing with orchestras and ensembles including the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra of the Swan and the period group Ensemble Parnasso in Festa. I love teaching people of all ages and have had students aged between 3 and 70! One of my very young students thinks the violin is “the best thing ever!”
I provide one-to-one Violin tuition as well as Early Years Music Appreciation with Violin and Piano at the Music House.
Johanna Bernard
Violin | Piano
I have always been blessed with excellent music teachers from the moment I started receiving private lessons. First came the piano at age 5 and two years later the violin which has now been the complete focus of my life since I was 16. Every single teacher I’ve had has shaped me into the musician I am today and I am very aware of the role I could potentially play in my student’s lives therefore, whether they choose to pursue music further or not. My training was classical until I changed to jazz at 18 and opened up a whole range of other techniques and influences to my playing.
Originally from Germany, I came to the UK at 16 to go to Wells Cathedral School as a Specialist Musician for Sixth Form. After two years off in Berlin between school and university I moved to London to study jazz violin undergrad at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama where I finished my degree in 2017.
I believe that a good technical foundation is crucial but I understand it can be frustrating especially for children to work on that so I try to always find pieces my students are really passionate about to keep the interest in music alive and avoid making learning an instrument another chore.
Juri Uchishiba
Violin
Born and raised in London, I have been playing the violin since age 6 and am a recent graduate of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.
My teaching method draws heavily on Mimi Zweig’s Pedagogy, incorporating the techniques of Shinichi Suzuki and Paul Rolland. I like to focus on the importance of creating a non-judgmental and positive environment for learning the violin whilst simultaneously developing a secure technique and musical sensitivity.
Whilst studying for my undergraduate classical violin degree, I also took Music Therapy as a module in my third year; an experience which opened my eyes to the valuable role music can play in early development.
I believe that each student has their own individual pace and method of learning and I am confident, with my experience that I can accommodate their needs.
Katherine Raven
Vioin | Piano | Viola
I grew up in York, Yorkshire. I began playing the violin aged 7 at school. At the age of 11, I joined Yorkshire Young Musicians in Leeds where I had lessons on violin and piano, and later Viola and Piano.
I was a member of the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain for two years; this was a wonderful opportunity as I got to work with some of the country's top conductors and perform in venues such as Symphony Hall (Birmingham), The Royal Festival Hall and The Royal Albert Hall as part of the BBC Proms. I am currently in my final year of my undergraduate degree at the Royal College of Music, studying with Jonathan Barritt.
I began teaching for Music House for Children in September 2017. I've enjoyed meeting so many aspiring young musicians. Our lessons are always varied and keep me on my toes.
Katie Macdonald
Flute | Early Years | Violin | SEN | Piano
I have been playing the flute since the age of 11. I have studied at the Purcell School of Music and subsequently the Guildhall School of Music and Drama where I gained my Bachelor of Music with Honours in 2014.
In my professional life I have enjoyed performing across the country and further afield across the globe in venues such as the Royal Albert hall, Hong Kong city hall, Wigmore hall and in more contemporary settings like the Jazz Cafe Camden.
I have been teaching and leading outreach projects for the last 6 years and help run the Wind up Penguin Theatre Company; a charity that takes theatre to children in underprivileged parts of the world. Teaching and social facilitation using music is a core part of my professional work and I throughly enjoy seeing all the children here at Music House for Children as they inspire me everyday in my creative musical career.
Kirsty Keogh
Piano / Guitar / Voice / Early Years / SEN / Training
I am a music educator and singer/songwriter working across London.
I grew up in Tasmania before moving to Perth, Western Australia to study music and composition. I found myself on a mixed path as a musician and performer specialising in guitar and voice and as a music educator with a focus on working with children and young people with special educational needs (SEN).
I started a Music School in Perth in 2007 which offered group and one to one instrumental lessons and grew to over 300 pupils. I designed a variety of education programs for instrumental learning within this role. I also began performing regularly as a solo musician and in a variety of bands. I recorded an original album in 2010 and am currently working on a new collection of original works.
I completed my Bachelor of Music at the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts in 2010 before moving to London where I have continued both performance and education. I teach whole class and small group lessons in a variety of settings across London and provide music education training for schools and educators. My current work is predominately in SEN settings and I am in the final stages on completing my Masters of Music Education through UCL with a focus on whole class music and Autism.
I also work as the Singing Coordinator for Lambeth Music Service where I direct the singing concerts as part of the Lambeth Music Festival at The Royal Festival Hall and support schools with their singing strategies across Lambeth.
I have been working for the Music House for 6 years; teaching a variety of instruments including piano, guitar, ukulele, voice, and working in nurseries and schools across West London. I also support the SEN programs at the Music House, offering training sessions and supporting pupils with a variety of learning needs.
I really enjoy my work at the Music House and across London and look forward to new ventures in the future.
Klimis Voskidis
Piano
I was born in Greece and studied at the RNCM, Manchester and RCM, London. I teacher piano and musical theory to advance/diploma level, specialising in piano technique and virtuosity.
Amongst other teaching institutions I have worked for the prestigious Music House for Children for many years. All my school and private students are motivated to be active performers and to go through early and advanced exam stages. As an active concert pianist I inspire one’s enthusiasm for music and study of performance practice. I am currently organising concerts and recordings, with my performing repertoire characterised by the expressiveness and the sonority of 19th-century romantic works.
Laura Chiorean
Violin | Piano | SEN | Singing
Originally from Romania, after living in London for the past six years I've come to call my small house in South East my home. I started working at the Music House for Children around the same time that I settled in London and five years down the line I'm still here every Thursday and Saturday.
I graduated my violin studies with Artist Diploma in Romania. I am currently studying at Trinity Laban Conservatoire in London in an Opera course. I've been teaching violin and piano for the past ten years recently adding to my list teaching singing.
The special thing about the Music House for Children is the friendly atmosphere, where no matter where you come from or what your social status is you're always welcomed with open arms and supported into a long musical journey.
My favourite age to start an instrument is four years old. Though some might think it is too early, through play and with a lot of patience one of my early starters has recently been accepted at Trinity Laban's Junior Department where she regularly performs in the orchestra and solo. But perhaps the biggest success of all is seeing that twinkle in a child's eye when they know they've done that song, that bothered them last week, very well. Nothing is more special than the pleased grin on their little faces.
Lily Hope
Cello | Early Years | SEN
I am an enthusiastic and passionate teacher who grew up and learnt to play the cello in Birmingham and London. I have had the experience of teaching in many scenarios over a number of years, but still find each lesson to be new and exciting. I have played all kinds of music during my career, from symphonies to musicals, operas to pop and contemporary music - but my favourite thing to play is chamber music with my string quartet.
When I’m not making music I like exploring nature, discovering London’s secrets, or staying at home with my pets!
Maite Colás
Viola | Violin
I was born in 1993 in Vitoria, in the Basque Country region of Spain. I commenced learning music at the age of 7 – I started playing a traditional wind instrument from my region called txistu- and began studying viola when I was 8.
I really enjoy playing in a orchestra and I’ve had the chance of playing in different ones since I was little. It is especially fun when I get to travel to do concerts, but what I enjoy the most is playing in small ensembles and performing chamber music. I also enjoy playing in a quartet (formed by two violins, myself and a cello). Apart from classical music, I also enjoy playing other music styles, such as the folk music from where I come from.
In July 2017, I graduated from my Master of Arts at the Royal Academy of Music, where I studied with the violist Jon Thorne. This time in London has been very enriching for me as a musician and a teacher and I am willing to share all the knowledge and passion for music with the students from Music House for Children.
Maria Hernandez
Piano | Voice | Recorder
I am a piano and singing teacher, singer, songwriter and a dancer from Spain, where I toured as a professional singer from the age of 16.
At the age of 14, I won "The English Key" prize singing "When You Believe" by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston on Cantamania (Salou, TV3). I attended Aula Musics (Liceu of Barcelona) to study the professional degree of jazz and blues, the Conservatoire of Tarragona to study classical music, Acción-Escena School of Actors of Madrid to study a professional course of Musical Theatre and BIMM London to study BA Creative Musicianship. I have performed as an established solo artist (Maria Moss) around Spain, UK and the USA and have collaborated with many artists, DJs and producers like Ariel Style, DJ Shakey and Arthur Sammett.
My teaching career started when I was 10 years old (yes, it is true) as a dancing teacher for children from 4 to 18 years old. Later, I became a singing, piano and music theory teacher. Alongside performing live on a regular basis, I have built up seven years of teaching experience.
I currently tutor singing, piano and music theory to children, teenagers and adults looking to develop their talent and instrument technique. I balance my teaching role with studies, a busy performance schedule and songwriting.
I love teaching at Music House for Children because I can pass on my enthusiasm and love for music to the younger generation. I am very happy to see my students grow up and become better musicians. My lessons, songs and performances are filled with my characteristic personality and my calling for happiness, love and empowerment.
Michael Howard
Guitar | Bass Guitar | Ukulele
From North West England I moved to London in 2010. I have about 30 years teaching and performing experience, and enjoy working with a variety of people from different backgrounds and abilities. I started teaching for Music House for Children in 2016. I have gained particular enjoyment from watching my pupils develop. In many instances performing in front of an audience for the first time.
Aside from music, I enjoy reading, walking, weight-training and doing crosswords/puzzles.
Stefanos Tsourelis
Guitar
I have been working as a professional musician and teacher on the Guitar and Oud (Arabic Lute) since 2000. My musical spectrum includes Pop, Rock, Blues, Jazz and World music. I moved to London in 2005 to study at Thames Valley University in association with the London Guitar Institute. In 2008 I graduated with a BMus (Hons) in Popular Music and was awarded Best Guitarist of the Year.
Currently, I am working as a teacher and musician in London. My teaching abilities include preparation for grades, theory, composition, modern methods for improvisation and knowledge of modern harmony.
Stefania Morosini
Voice | Piano
I am a versatile, lead and ensemble vocalist, and piano and singing tutor. I achieved two university degrees in Education, psychology and popular music performance. My career as a performer and teacher is extensive, in addition to my work as a founding member of the all female vocal ensemble ProVoc.
I started working with Music House for Children in 2016. I love the ethos and quality of this school and have worked with some of the brightest students there.
Funny stories? A student once thought I was 12 years old! When I am not singing or teaching, I love travelling, going to the movies, reading and going for quiet walks around the city!
Stephanie McClain
Early Years | Voice | Ukulele
I am a professional vocalist and ukulele player providing music sessions around greater London. I studied at the Academy of Music and Sound Glasgow where I achieved BA (Hons) Degree in Performance Industries.
My aim is to teach music classes to early years or older children to provide introduction to music and encourage confidence. I am a first study vocalist and also play ukulele, guitar and am learning how to play the piano. I regularly perform in for a choir called Wimbledon Choral Society and enjoy performing around open mic nights in my spare time.
Susannah Evans
Harp | Piano | Early Years
I am a classically trained harpist with a love of Latin and jazz. I studied at the Federal University in Rio, Brazil in 2013 with Cristina Braga and released my debut album, Dreams Rising in April 2014, a collection of Latin American songs in collaboration with Brazilian artists.
I love working with children and am passionate about the arts and education. I have been involved in teaching performing arts and harp for over 10 years and have taught in nurseries for The Music House as well as private teaching since 2016. I love to help nurture children’s creativity and have fun whilst learning. I incorporate my knowledge of the Dalcroze method in the lessons. As well as teaching harp technique, I like to encourage playing by ear and improvisation. I aim to help each child develop their own musicality and become confident and well-rounded harpists.
My piano teaching philosophy is based on finding different ways to guide my students reaching their goals building confident individuals secure in their abilities.
Teresa Wrann
Recorder | Voice | Early Years
I was born in Thüringen, a little village in the middle of the Austrian alps. I graduated with distinction from my BMus in Recorder and Music Education and currently studying for my master’s at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.
I am passionate about offering every child a chance to make their first musical steps and experience the joy music can bring. Music is a wonderful way of communicating with each other and offers opportunities for every child to feel included.
I started teaching at the Music House for Children in July 2017 and have previously worked as a recorder and early years music teacher in Austria, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.
I have performed as a soloist and with various ensembles and baroque orchestras around Europe.
Besides teaching and performing, I am passionate about cooking, dancing, languages and different cultures and I love to travel.
My favourite teaching moment was when I taught a key stage 2 class a song from the Wizard of Oz during my placement there and they performed it for me when I came back to visit them.
Valentina Marciano
Piano | Voice | SEN | Early Years
I am a professionally trained singer, dancer and Musical Theatre performer with experience as a teacher. After completing a Bachelor’s Degree at Turin University in Modern Literature and Language and a Diploma at Professione Musical Italia Academy in Musical Theatre, I decided to extend my music skills studying as a Music Therapist with AIM (MT Association Italy).
In London I attended a harmony short course at Nordoff-Robbins Centre and took a Certification as a Community Music Teacher at City and Guilds.
My skills include singing, piano, ukulele along with music pedagogical abilities specifically addressed to children.