About Ken Ross
Ken Ross had the best training in Classical expression and approach from his own teacher, Rosemary Mathers, and teaches the full technique, including relaxation and the control of gravity to produce the best, singing effects from the piano. Not all teachers have been lucky enough to come across these procedures, refined by the best pianists over a period of centuries. Only too often the line has been broken at some point, and teaching goes on without much reference to the deep musical understanding that lies hidden in all of us.
Whether you want to play jazz, or Classical music, or TV theme tunes, it can only be an advantage to have perfect control over your hands and arms, and be able to access the subtlest variations in tone-colour at any time. Though the real focus is always the enjoyment of music, piano exams can be a useful yardstick for pupils. Ken's pupils have an impressive record of passes in Associated Board and Trinity College exams, with a high proportion of merits and distinctions.
Ken also teaches music theory at all levels up to ABRSM Grade Eight. He has developed his own special book of materials for Grade Five Theory (the one that has to be passed before higher piano exams can be taken), which makes it far easier than following the formal course. His own qualifications are BA, performance ATCL and performance LTCL (Licenciate of Trinity College London). His theory qualification is the advanced Musical Knowledge paper that was a requirement of the diplomas. He holds the Scottish Disclosure Certificate (enhanced).
Pupils of all ages are welcome, starting from about six or seven. Any level of previous experience is fine, or none at all. Lessons cost £20 per half hour, £40 per hour. There is ample free parking outside Ken’s house in Morningside.
