Singing Lessons

  • James holds an LRAM licentiate in Singing Teaching from the Royal Academy of Music, where he graduated from the MA Musical Theatre programme with distinction & an additional honorary DipRAM award for outstanding performance. There he studied Bel Canto under the renowned voice teacher Ann James, Estill Voicecraft with Anne-Marie Speed and the art of Vocal Pedagogy with Sam Kenyon. Having performed as a cross-genre vocalist in numerous productions, concerts, cabarets, gigs, recordings & festivals both UK-wide and internationally, James has a vast well of experience to call upon. He previously taught technical singing as part of the vocal faculty at Laine Theatre Arts.

  • Lessons focus on establishing a secure, flexible, healthy vocal technique; exercising creativity with voice use & unlocking the maximum range of artistic expression available. James does not teach one specific methodology but rather a unique multi-faceted approach to troubleshoot vocal problems at source and work-out the precise vocal ‘recipe’ required for the task. Various genres are catered for (classical, pop, rock, musical theatre etc.) and though each require specific set-up configurations, the core principle of “no pain, no strain” underpins all. Topics covered include posture, breathing & ‘support’, resonance & ‘mixing’, ‘belting’ & maintaining/improving vocal stamina.

  • Lessons take place either at a central London studio or online. Standard sessions are 50mins at £45 (+£6 room booking contribution fee if in studio). Please enquire for more details.

  • "I have loved to sing my whole life, but before I took lessons with James, singing was not always enjoyable and sometimes even painful if I did it over a long period. James' biggest gift to me was the ability to sing healthily and with ease, so that I can now not only create a more healthy sound but also know that I am not damaging my voice while doing the thing that I love."

    Cecilia M (Music Student)

  • "I began lessons with James at the end of 2023 as an actor who was never quite happy with their voice. After our first lesson I had learnt more about my own voice than I had in my 3 years of training. James has an incredible knowledge of singing technique, that he teaches in such an understandable way. I am looking forward to continuing indefinitely with James."

    Reuben G (West End Performer)

  • "Singing lessons with James over the past few months have helped me immensely. James approaches every lesson with kindness and curiosity and I leave each lesson with a greater understanding of my voice. I now know how to create sound in the most sustainable and healthy way. I could not recommend lessons with James enough."

    Meisie G (Drama School Student)

Piano Lessons

  • James studied piano from an early age with renowned pianist/composer Raymond Head, culminating in the passing of his ABRSM Grade 8 as a teenager. He went on to obtain a first class degree from Rose Bruford College in Actor Musicianship before completing a masters at the Royal Academy of Music. James’ pianistic career to date has been eclectic; gigging with multiple bands, performing as a classical accompanist and working extensively for music education companies such as Mini Mozart and Practice Pal. He has been teaching piano in a freelance capacity for the past 7 years, seeing multiple students through their ABRSM practical & music theory exams. James previously taught piano/accordion on the BA Actor Musician programme at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts.

  • Experienced at working with complete beginners and seasoned, professional musicians alike, the goal of James’ piano lessons is to equip students with a grounded, flexible keyboard technique whilst maximising expression through joyful playing. Often lessons follow a similar structure consisting of scales, chord building & improvisation, sight-reading and aural skills; followed by an in-depth study of pieces/songs. As each lesson is tailored to best suit the individual’s needs/interests, naturally content varies; past lesson focuses have included songwriting, self-accompaniment & jazz improvisation etc. James has experience working with children and young adults and is adept at creating fun, inspiring musical learning environments and holds an advanced DBS/CRB check.

  • Lessons are charged at an hourly rate of £50ph, with timing to suit the student. These can be performed either in-person at a students home, online or at a central London studio (where James charges £56 per standard 50min session in order to accommodate room booking fees). Please enquire for more details.

  • "James is a wonderful, professional piano teacher who has taught my daughter for over three years. She absolutely loves her lessons, James has given her confidence and she looks forward to learning more each week. I would highly recommend James to anyone looking to learn to play piano."

    Layla A (Parent)

  • "I'd always felt self-conscious about my piano skills not being up to scratch for accompaniment. James created a tailored plan for me to reach my goals, and within 8 months of lessons I went from a complete beginner, to having the skills and confidence to accompany my students and add piano to my CV. I can't recommend James highly enough!"

    Kirsty N (Singing Teacher)

  • "I was nervous to take up piano for the first time, but James was a patient, kind and understanding teacher who fostered a safe and comfortable learning environment and made our lessons so much fun that I always looked forward to them. I'm grateful for James' help starting me on my piano journey, as well as inspiring me to continue to pursue my love of music."

    Cecilia M (Music Student)