Learn to play the piano! Teaching piano lessons to children and adults in Brighton has become a major part of my life as a musician. I believe that teaching style must adapt to each and every pupil, so I've developed an empathic, patient approach where I work out what kind of guidance and level of discipline works for each learner while providing a solid framework of technique and musicianship. I like to develop a relationship of mutual trust with pupils of all ages and at all levels, from absolute beginners to post-grade 8, and to share the wonderful advice I've received from some amazing teachers and coaches over the years, including Margaret Grimsdell, Yuri Paterson-Olenich, Malcolm Martineau and Gary Matthewman. I aim to help intermediate and advanced players to develop a range of colours and tones, the ability to interpret repertoire individually and a variety of approaches to ensure that practice always remains both enjoyable and constructive. I also arrange concerts for pupils twice a year to give experience of performing for other people, adding to the programme by including some of the singers and instrumentalists I work with!

For face to face lessons, pupils need to be able to get to my studio in Hollingdean, Brighton BN1 7HL. Although I might be able to come to yours if you’re very nearby and I can get there easily by bike!

  • While I still enjoy teaching children at different ages (starting from 8 years old) and ability, I am now specializing in teaching adults, which I find extremely rewarding. At whatever level pupils are, I always find there are ways to make meaningful progress and to have an enjoyable journey through the wonderful world of the piano repertoire.

    Do get in contact if you're interested in either face to face or remote lessons!

  • Throughout the past two challenging years I've been teaching both remotely and, when restrictions have allowed it, face to face. Discovering remote teaching, which was at first a necessity, has been a real eye opener for me - I've been amazed at how successful it can be! Having tried it, quite a few pupils have chosen to keep going with remote teaching even when face to face teaching has become possible again. Adults in particular seem to get on very well with this approach, and of course it's potentially extremely useful for all pupils in the event of a lockdown, or just if it's difficult to actually meet for any reason.

Testimonials

Testimonials - Teaching
Rani S

"Joe Ward is an excellent piano teacher. He is highly qualified with extensive knowledge and understanding and sensitive to individual needs. Alex , my son, remarks on how Joe shows real depth in being able to answer any question - in detail - and how he shows his love of the piano and music in the way he teaches. He understands how children learn, he is gentle and encouraging in his approach. Both my boys like him and are aware of the progress they have made not only in playing but also in their wider musical knowledge. I would recommend him as he is brilliant at getting the best from his students."

Rebecca F

"I am returning to the piano after a number of years' break and have just started lessons with Joe. It is wonderful to be playing again. From the outset, I was impressed by Joe's knowledge of the piano repertoire and I have found him to be an excellent teacher, able to give help on technical points as well as guidance on the phrasing and feel of the music. I suffer from nerves about playing in public, but Joe is very sympathetic and encouraging and I have already noticed an improvement both in my playing and in my confidence. I have no hesitation in recommending him as a teacher."

Rebecca M

“I’ve known Joe for around four years. He teaches my twelve year old son, James. Joe has a very gentle style of teaching that is extremely effective. He is very patient and manages to engender real interest in his subject. I love the fact that he is very open, whatever level his student may be at. He is a teacher who engages with people in a very respectful manner, whether they are an experienced opera singer or a novice piano student. He also encourages performance from the very start. His concerts include a great mix of abilities, from the most elementary level right through to the virtuoso. I think it is this respectfulness and genuine love of playing that is a big part of the reason James continues to want to learn. I frequently recommend Joe to anyone who is interested in learning the piano, just because I’m not sure you could do much better.”

Pauline C

“I am an older adult student and have a weekly lesson with Joe on Zoom which is very convenient. Joe has been my teacher for about 12 months after I took up the piano again after very many years of not playing. I am very pleased with the progress that I have made in this short time. This is due to Joe’s method of teaching of breaking down the pieces with advice on how to overcome any difficulties and how to practice. He is always encouraging and patient which has helped my confidence and motivation. He has introduced me to several new pieces, some quite difficult, which have been rewarding in achieving a level of being able to play them through to a reasonable standard. He is always well prepared for the lessons and has a deep understanding of the composers’ intentions and how to try to work towards this. In addition, the lunchtime concerts when Joe has given recitals himself or accompanied singers are very professional and enjoyable. He is excellent value, and I would recommend him wholeheartedly.”

Paul F

"Joe is a very talented and accomplished pianist, which provides a great deal of motivation to me as an adult beginner. He can always spot the underlying causes of my difficulties and recommend ways to overcome them which, with a bit of practice, invariably work. His teaching style and choice of practice pieces is ‘grown up’. In particular, I appreciate his detailed explanations and reasons for doing what he suggests. Joe seems to remember well the problems that he encountered when he first began to play; his empathy and encouragement adds to my determination to make progress. I am surprised at what I have achieved in such a short period of time and I am delighted with the results of his lessons.”