Seona

I’m a friendly and enthusiastic violin tutor who enjoys teaching students of all ages. Whether you’re a total beginner looking to try something new, or a player looking for some guidance and motivation to help you improve; if you have an interest in the violin and music then I’d love to hear from you.

To give you an idea of what I do, I am a freelance professional violinist based in Glasgow. My professional life is comprised of freelance playing with some of Scotland’s professional orchestras (including the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and Scottish Ballet), playing with string quartets at weddings and other events, and teaching violin and fiddle.

Tutoring Experience

I have ten years of teaching experience, having taught the violin and fiddle privately and also provided long term cover as an Instrumental Instructor for Renfrewshire Council where I taught the violin in primary and secondary schools and ran the weekly string group.

In terms of my training, I studied Performance Violin at the Royal Northern College of Music, graduating in 2019 with a First Class Bachelor of Music with Honours. In 2021, I graduated from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland with a Masters degree in Performance Violin. I also hold an ABRSM Diploma in Teaching with Distinction. During my studies and beyond I have taken an interest in community music. Whilst living in Manchester, I completed a placement at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital where I engaged with young people and their families through music. In Glasgow I have received training with Paragon Music, an inclusive music charity that runs creative workshops.

Tutoring Approach

Although my formal training has been classical, I always want to hear what style of music interests you. I grew up hearing and playing Scottish traditional music, and alongside teaching classical violin I also teach fiddle lessons, where the focus is more on learning traditional Scottish and Irish music, sometimes picking up tunes by ear and learning how to ornament and improvise. I have also taught students with an interest in other styles such as rock and pop, and I am always happy to write arrangements of your favourite songs for us to learn together.

In my teaching I always aim for an approach which is calm, nurturing and positive. I find that students are more motivated to practise and improve when they enjoy their lessons. Alongside the practicalities of learning the instrument, I am always looking to help my students develop their wider musicianship skills, with the needs and goals of each individual in mind.