Flute, piano, recorder, keyboard, music theory lessons. Beginners plus all exams and diplomas

Learn more about Kay

• 1) When did you first develop a passion for music and your favourite instrument?

  I always liked music but when I started learning the flute I hated practicing. It was only later on that I started taking it seriously. By the time I was 15 I began to think about becoming a professional flute player and when I won a scholarship to the Birmingham Conservatoire I knew I was in with a chance.

• 2) Is there a particular type of music or artist that you listen to on a loop without it driving you crazy?

  Not really, I need a change from Baroque - for example the Brandenburg concertos to a different style such as Stravinsky. To to be honest I don't find listening to music very relaxing, I'm always thinking about the tone or the pitch or what could have been done better or was excellently performed so I can't switch off my analytical mind and just enjoy it.

• 3) Explain to us the most difficult or riveting course you could personally give to a student of music.

  The FRSM diploma course offered by ABRSM or the Australian diplomas offered by AMEB.
  The diplomas are hard and are offered to those that would like to play at a professional level. We work on tone, technique and interpretation. And everything else of course!
  I find it riveting and the pupils who are able to perform at that level love it too because the exams are just 30 minute recitals.

• 4) What do you think is the most complicated instrument to master and why?

  The Ondes Martenot. Because you can't find one, so you'll have to make your own, there are hardly any teachers and it's repertoire is difficult!

• 5) What are your keys to success?

  Your success is personal and individual to you. If you wish to become a professional I can help you reach the standards of admittance to music college. If on the other hand you have a child with special needs who would love to be involved with music then I view that as equally important.
  Mostly, as Trevor Wye said, it is a question of time, patience and intelligent work.
  I would like to add talent, but that's up to you - and I don't mind if you don't feel you have any!

• 6) Name three musicians you dream of meeting in your favourite bar in the early hours of the morning. Explain why.

  1) Emmanuel Pahud - because of his artistry and innovative interpretation.
  2) Jaques Zoon - because he plays a wooden flute like me but has developed a new one of his own.
  3) James Galway - though I've already met him!
  
  He's had a lasting effect on my generation of flute players, expanded our repertoire and showed how it was possible to have a popular career as a soloist on the flute.

• 7) Provide a valuable anecdote related to music or your days at music school.

  I remember a great classical pianist coming to give us a concert whilst I was at the Birmingham Conservatoire. Unfortunately by then he was suffering from various illnesses and I remember he made several mistakes. I was shocked. One of the teachers explained to us why he was still great and gave us a perspective on his life. It was the first time I had thought of the performer as a human being and not just as an artist. It has helped me keep things relative and keep music in its perspective.

• 8) What are the little touches that make you a Superprof in music?

  I have expertise and patience! I love what I do and I know how to help you.