Penny Speed Piano
About
Qualifications, certificates and memberships:
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BA in Music
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Grade 8 Piano
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Enhanced DBS
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Currently studying MA in Music Education
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Independent Society of Musicians (ISM)
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European Piano Teachers Association (ETPA UK)
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The Association of British Choral Directors (Abcd)
My Journey
I have been playing the piano since the age of five and the violin since I was nine, and music has been at the centre of my life ever since. Alongside performance, I have always been deeply passionate about music theory and history, and I love finding ways to make these subjects engaging, accessible, and enjoyable for others.
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I completed my Grade 8 piano during sixth form before going on to study for a BA in Music at Newcastle University. During my undergraduate degree, I achieved a First-Class dissertation focusing on female music-making in early modern England — a topic that reflects my love of musical history and research-led thinking. Wanting to develop further as both a musician and educator, I began an MA in Music Education at Newcastle University in September 2025, which I am currently completing. My research explores a new framework for evaluating piano fingering, combining historical insight with modern pedagogical practice.
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Orchestral and ensemble music have always been a huge part of my musical journey. I have played in orchestras since the age of twelve, with highlights including performing with Orchestra North East over the past three years. As a teenager, I also attended all of the Opera North summer programmes, which played a formative role in my musical development. More recently, I run my own choir and am keen to continue strengthening my choral leadership and musicianship.
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Alongside performing, I have extensive experience accompanying and teaching musicians of a wide range of ages and abilities. Teaching is something I find genuinely rewarding — I love seeing students grow in confidence and skill, and if progress ever stalls, I see it as a creative challenge to adapt my approach and find what works best for each individual learner.
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Outside of music, I enjoy spending time in nature, reading, and enthusiastically trying out new hobbies. From summer 2026, I will be moving to Surrey to begin an exciting new chapter, where I look forward to continuing my teaching, performing, and musical research.
Lessons
Tailored for You
I offer piano lessons that fit every skill level and age group. Each lesson is customized to meet your individual goals and interests.
Adult Lessons
Taking up an instrument in adulthood is one of the most valuable things you could do with your time and I am here to work alongside you in your learning. Whatever pace or level suits you I am happy to move with you as you pursue greatness as a pianist!
Children Lessons
Piano lessons for children focus on building solid technique, musical understanding, and a genuine love of music. I aim to create a positive learning experience where children feel supported, motivated, and proud of their progress.
Music Theory Lessons
Music theory underpins everything pianists learn. Beyond supporting exam progression, it helps beginners truly understand and make sense of the musical world around them. My group theory sessions aim to remove the stigma of “boring” theory lessons, bringing concepts to life in an engaging, accessible, and enjoyable way.