Ford

I'm a professional folk musician based in Sheffield with 10 years live performance experience on Irish whistle and Guitar. I also have several years experience in Indian classical music and I play the tabla. I'm a very dedicated musician and I get a lot out of sharing my music with others.
In 2018 my band The Drystones was nominated for a BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award.
I can teach acoustic guitar grades as well as learning songs in whatever styles interest you.
I specialise in contemporary folk and Irish traditional music on tin whistle.

Tutoring Experience

I have been teaching with the Halsway Manor national centre for folk arts youth programmes since 2014, including leading workshops of up to 35 students in singing and instrumental from ages 6-20, at residentials and in schools. I have been tutoring private instrumental lessons since 2017.

Tutoring Approach

I believe in a flexible and responsive approach to each student. The most important thing is to find your passion for the instrument, so I will try and respond to the things that engage each student. My preferred method of teaching is by ear, and I believe this is a vital skill for every musician. Visual aids can be useful though, and I am able to teach music theory and notation if appropriate.
Playing together and being spontaneous is just as important as technique.