UCL Professional Pianist/ Percussionist | Over 10 years of experience teaching all levels

Learn more about Jo

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

  I developed a passion for music from an early age, drawn to the expressive power of the piano. Its versatility and ability to convey emotions fascinated me. It became my favourite instrument because of how it allows me to explore a wide range of musical styles and moods.

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

  I could listen to the works of Edward Elgar and J.S. Bach endlessly. Elgar's Salut d'Amour has a tender beauty that never fails to touch my heart, and pieces like Nimrod from the Enigma Variations are profoundly moving. Bach, with his intricate counterpoint and perfect structures, offers a timeless brilliance that keeps my mind engaged and my spirit calm, no matter how many times I hear his compositions.

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

  The most riveting course I could give would be advanced music theory intertwined with piano performance. We'd dive deep into analyzing harmonic progressions, phrasing techniques, and how to interpret musical pieces with emotional depth. It's challenging yet rewarding as it equips students with tools to not only play music, but truly understand and feel it.

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

  The organ is, in my opinion, one of the most complicated instruments to master. It demands not only technical precision with hands and feet but also an acute awareness of phrasing and registration to bring out the colours of the instrument. Coordinating everything can feel like piloting a spaceship!

• What are your keys to success?

  Patience, adaptability, and passion are my keys to success. Teaching students of all ages has taught me that no two learners are the same. I take the time to understand their needs, celebrate their progress, and help them find joy in the process.

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

  1) Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - His humour and wit are legendary, and I'd love to hear his outrageous stories from the courts of Europe. I imagine he'd bring life to any conversation with his charm and quick mind.
  
  2) Uchida Mitsuko - As a virtuoso pianist, her depth of interpretation and dedication to her craft are awe-inspiring. I'd love to hear her thoughts on performing Mozart and Schubert, and how she connects emotionally with each piece.
  
  3)Ryuichi Sakamoto - His ability to create hauntingly beautiful film scores is mesmerizing. I'd ask him about his creative process and how he translates emotions into music that stays with listeners long after the credits roll.

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

  During my undergraduate studies, I remember preparing for a demanding personal recital while also directing a children's choir. Balancing these responsibilities taught me the importance of time management, but the real lesson came during the recital when I realized how much I had grown as both a musician and teacher. The applause felt like a culmination of years of dedication.

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

  I tailor each lesson to the student's unique goals and abilities, incorporating method books, sight-reading, aural skills, and finger exercises. My goal is to foster a supportive and engaging environment where students feel encouraged to improve and enjoy the learning journey. My experience teaching very young children has also taught me the importance of creativity and patience, which I bring to every lesson.