Orpington's trusted music education studio

Programs

Individual piano tuition for children and adults — from first lessons to diploma-level preparation. All programs include termly progress notes for parents.

Beginners

Most children start between ages 5 and 8, though we welcome beginners at any age. Early lessons focus on sitting well at the piano, finding notes on the keyboard, steady pulse, and reading from the stave — always with pieces that feel achievable within a week or two.

Parents sit in for the first few sessions if helpful. Practice expectations are modest at the start: ten to fifteen minutes most days is enough to build habit without pressure.

  • Lesson length 30 minutes (under 8) · 45 minutes (8+)
  • Books Piano Adventures, Lang Lang, or similar — chosen to suit each child
  • Goal Confident reading and enjoyment before grade work begins
Beginner piano lesson with simple five-finger exercises on the keyboard
Graded exam repertoire being practiced on an acoustic piano

Graded exams

We prepare students for ABRSM and Trinity College London exams from Grade 1 through Grade 8. Exam entry is never rushed — Hannah will advise when a student is genuinely ready, typically allowing one full term of consolidation before the exam date.

Preparation covers all syllabus components: three pieces, scales and arpeggios, sight-reading, and aural tests. Mock exams are run in the studio in the weeks before the real thing.

  • Grades 1–3 45-minute lessons · foundation repertoire and technique
  • Grades 4–5 45–60 minutes · broader stylistic range
  • Grades 6–8 60-minute lessons · advanced repertoire and musical maturity

Music theory

Theory lessons support practical playing and exam requirements. Students working toward Grade 5 practical need at least Grade 5 theory (or equivalent); we integrate theory into piano lessons where possible and offer dedicated theory sessions when a focused push is needed.

Sessions cover notation, intervals, chords, transposition, and score analysis — always linked back to the pieces on the piano stand.

  • Format 30-minute add-on or standalone session
  • Materials ABRSM Discovering Music Theory workbooks
  • Exams Online ABRSM theory exams supported
Student reviewing theory workbook alongside sheet music

Adult learners

Returning to piano after years away, or starting fresh in retirement — adult lessons are relaxed but structured. You choose the repertoire: classical, film themes, jazz standards, or hymns.

Evening slots are available Monday to Thursday. No recital pressure unless you want it — though many adult students surprise themselves by performing at our informal summer gatherings.

Enquire about availability

Fees & term dates

Lessons follow the Kent school terms with optional summer lessons by arrangement. Fees are invoiced termly in advance. A free 20-minute trial lesson is offered to new students.

Contact us for current rates — [email protected] or 01689 874221.