Category: Technique
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Music Masterclass at Durham University
It was a pleasure to recently lead a music masterclass at Durham University for a group of dedicated piano and flute students.
The session focused on tackling technical challenges that can hinder progress—whether it’s performance nerves, unwanted tension, or developing a fuller, more expressive tone.
One of the key techniques we explored was how to identify barriers to performance. Many students, in their effort to play well, tend to try too hard—leading to excessive tension and reduced musicality. By discussing the concept of relaxation and encouraging students to take more time to process between musical phrases, we found that their playing became more confident, fluid, and expressive.
Each student brought along a piece they found challenging or wanted to improve. The masterclass provided space to perform, receive constructive feedback, and refine their technique and musical understanding.
With a 100% exam success rate, I continue to support Durham University students—whether they’re preparing for assessments or simply passionate about improving their playing—helping them grow into more relaxed, expressive, and resilient musicians.
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Long Nails & Piano Playing: A Love Story That Wasn’t Meant to Be
Recently, a few students have arrived for their trial piano lessons with beautifully sculpted extension nails, only to discover (sometimes with a hint of surprise) that those nails and the piano aren’t the best of friends.
And while I don’t turn anyone away based on their nail choices—I promise!—I do gently explain: You’re not quite ready for a lesson with me… yet. You’re more than welcome to come back once your nails are trimmed and your fingertips are free to meet the keys.
Why Do Short Nails Matter?
In lessons with me, we focus on developing the most effective, enjoyable, and effortless approach to piano playing. That includes good posture, sound technique, and—importantly—direct contact between your fingertips and the keys. Long nails interfere with this. They alter your finger position, affect your tone, and make it harder to develop the control and fluidity that make playing truly satisfying.
If your nails are tapping on the keys or you’re adjusting your hand shape to avoid damaging them, you’re already battling an unnecessary barrier.
It’s Not About Perfection—It’s About Progress
Learning an instrument is challenging enough without adding obstacles we can avoid. Trimming your nails might not feel glamorous, but the payoff is huge: playing with comfort, confidence, and joy.
The Good News?
You can enjoy your nails and enjoy playing the piano—just perhaps not at the same time. Many of my students choose to keep their nails short during term time and treat themselves to extensions during the holidays or for special occasions. It’s all about finding the right balance.
So to all would-be pianists: if you arrive for your trial lesson with dazzling nails, know that I admire your style—but I’ll be right here, ready to welcome you back when your fingertips are too.
Thinking of giving it a go (nail-free)? Book your trial lesson and let’s start your musical journey—one fingertip at a time.
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Durham University Music Tutor
Durham University Music Tutor – How I Help Flute and Piano Students at Durham University
At Durham University, I have the privilege of working with talented and passionate flute and piano students. Moreover, I help them achieve their musical goals and overcome challenges. Here’s how my approach supports students to reach their potential and enjoy the journey of learning.
Transforming Playing Through Relaxation and Technique
One of my students shared that before starting lessons, their flute playing felt strained, with a fluffy tone and inconsistent notes. This was particularly stressful as they prepared for high-level performances like their diploma recital and final year Music BA recital. Together, we focused on
- reducing tension
- improving embouchure control
- refining their practice techniques
The results were transformative, and their playing improved beyond their expectations.
A key part of this progress was learning to relax while playing. Many students are surprised at how much tension they carry in their hands, embouchure, or posture, which can hinder performance. By addressing these issues and introducing efficient practice methods, even for those with limited time, students achieve more with less stress. One student reflected, “By the end of the year, we had completely transformed my sound!”
Music Tutor Durham – Encouraging Independence and Confidence
I believe in empowering my students to take ownership of their learning. Rather than asking students to imitate me or follow advice without asking questions, I guide them to think critically about their playing. For instance, I encourage them to use tools like mirrors to observe and correct issues such as finger technique. This not only helps solve immediate challenges but also builds their confidence and understanding, which are crucial for long-term growth.
One student highlighted how this approach was a “game-changer,” saying it’s not just about fixing problems but understanding why certain techniques or adjustments are necessary. This deeper insight helps students play with greater assurance and expression. Another student shared, “Her focus on musicality and hearing what you are playing has been invaluable. Now, I can hear clear differences in how I play and have more awareness of myself and my sound.”
Flexible and Supportive Teaching
Every student is unique, and I adapt my teaching to fit their individual needs and circumstances. Whether a student is juggling university coursework, extracurricular commitments, or personal goals, I help them find ways to make meaningful progress. For instance, I show students how to maximise even five minutes of practice time and focus on quality over quantity. This flexibility ensures lessons remain effective and enjoyable.
One student described how breaking down challenging pieces into manageable sections made a huge difference: “Her approach to tackle easy sections first, focusing on one element at a time, reduces the stress of practice and the need for perfection, making a difficult five-page piece infinitely more manageable.” This method not only improved their flute playing but also influenced how they approached university assignments.
Music Tutor Durham – Helping Students Achieve Big Goals
Many students come to me with ambitious goals that initially feel out of reach, from diploma recitals to mastering advanced repertoire. My role is to break these goals into manageable steps and provide the guidance and encouragement needed to succeed. One student described me as “reliable, encouraging, and someone who knows exactly how to make things click.” Another shared how they’ve been able to approach challenging pieces with confidence after developing the necessary technical skills.
A Welcoming Environment for All Levels
For those considering lessons, it’s important to know you don’t need to “play well” to get started. My teaching is about meeting you where you are and helping you grow. Whether you’re struggling with technique or aiming for a specific milestone, we’ll work together to make steady and satisfying progress.
Students often comment on the stress-free and supportive atmosphere I provide. One perfectionist student shared, “Her relaxed environment and approach to teaching is amazing for those who are overly critical of themselves. Before coming to Joo-Lee, I was in such a slump and considering giving up. Now, thanks to her, I’ve fallen back in love with my instrument.”
Start Your Musical Journey
If you’re a flute or piano student at Durham University or at a minimum level of Grade 6 looking for a supportive, tailored approach to lessons, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to unlock your potential and make your musical aspirations a reality.
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Top Tips for Getting Your Child into a Practice Routine
Just like with any type of learning, helping your child make good progress with their chosen musical instrument is not about coercion.Children learn better and absorb more information when they are having fun. So how can you create a positive association with their music practice so they make wonderful progress? Follow these three steps.
Get Clear on Reasons for Practising
Encouraging your child to practise with their musical instrument is not about ‘making’ them get better at it. Maybe you treat it as fun and quality time together. Maybe you talk to them about how playing music can help them build their confidence and express themselves. Focus on the positives of practice, don’t treat it like a chore.
Create a routine
Putting a routine in place for your child’s music practice will help them develop good habits. Think about the other routines they have, like brushing their teeth before bed, or doing their homework after school; music practice should be treated the same.
Routine starts with you, the parents. Decide on a time, like before school or immediately after, for example, practise for 10 minutes after school Monday to Friday. In the school holidays, it may be every morning after breakfast. Choose what works for them and for you. This is important, because deciding how much time you have as a parent to get involved will help them develop a good routine.
Scenario #1 – If you have 5-10 minutes a day to help them practise:
Be in the same room as your child when it’s Practice Time. You don’t need to teach your child. Simply open up the Practice Notebook and ask your child to refer to their Practice Notes. If you are an extremely busy parent, you may be working on the computer, texting, or reading at the same time. This is fine as long as you’re in a quiet space and you’re not doing something like talking on the phone, for example. At the end of 5 minutes, you may leave your child to practise on their own.
Scenario #2 – If you have 10 – 20 minutes a day to help them practise:
If you can be attentive during the Practice Time, your child will be more focused and make more progress. Open up the Practice Notebook and ask your child to follow the items in the Practice Notes. Don’t teach or correct your child. Simply offer them positive encouragement and say ‘well done’ for any work completed.Avoid these things
So many children become unmotivated and resistant to practising. This is often because:- They are constantly told that their practice is not enough;
- They feel under pressure to practise for longer than they can manage;
- They get bored;
- They don’t know what to practise.
If your child has lost their motivation to practise with their musical instrument, my advice is:
- Always say ‘well done for doing your practice today’ when your child has done their practice. Don’t express dissatisfaction if they have not done their practice. Stay focused on the positive. Remember, it’s not about ‘making’ them learn.
- Remember that showing up to Practice Time is much more important than how long your child practises.
- Ask your child to practise for about 10 minutes each day. Having to practise for too long and beyond their attention span will lead to boredom and loss of motivation.
- Refer to your child’s Practice Notes so that they know what to practise.
If your child has a positive association with their Music Practice and they think of practising with you as fun parent and child time together, they are more likely to develop good practice habits, get into a regular routine, and make wonderful progress with their musical instrument.
Got a question about music practice? Email joolee@lindy-jazz.co.uk.
