Max

Max is an accomplished pianist and inspiring teacher, offering lessons that combine technical precision, creative insight, and a deep understanding of music. He teaches students of all ages, from young beginners to advanced players working at diploma level, and aims to make every lesson engaging and enjoyable while helping students develop confidence, a love of music, and strong technical skills. He follows each student’s interests, but for those who choose to take ABRSM exams, he has a 100% pass rate and particular expertise in developing sightreading skills.

A scholar at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Max also studied a classical improvisation elective and Professor David Dolan’s improvisation course, gaining skills in improvisation, communication, and expressive playing that he incorporates into his lessons. His experiences with a movement disorder, focal dystonia, have given him additional insight into piano technique and movement, which he shares with students to ensure healthy, efficient playing.

Max has studied with a wide range of renowned pianists and teachers, including Ronan O’Hora, Katya Apekisheva, Pam Wedgwood, and Bela Hartmann. These experiences, combined with his own musical exploration, have helped him develop a teaching approach tailored to each student. Whether students are preparing for exams, tackling advanced repertoire such as Rachmaninov preludes, or simply exploring music for enjoyment, he ensures lessons are inspiring, fun, and engaging.

His teaching experience spans private lessons, outreach projects, and masterclasses. He has worked with students of all levels, integrating improvisation, creative listening, and a love of music into every lesson. Outreach work has included music therapy projects at Bedelsford School for children with profound special needs, and composition projects at Richard Cobden Primary School, where he coached students to compose and perform pieces inspired by animals.

As a performer, Max has an impressive track record both nationally and internationally. He is the 2023 prize winner of the Musicians’ Company Carnwath Scholarship, a finalist in the 7th International Alkan Prize for Piano Virtuosity in Milan, a keyboard semi-finalist in the Royal Overseas League competition, and was invited to perform in the prestigious Musician’s Company Prince’s Prize. He has performed in venues including Duke’s Hall, Milton Court Concert Hall, Hindhead Music Centre, and several London churches, and has given solo recitals and concerto performances including the Rachmaninov 3rd Piano Concerto and the Grieg Piano Concerto.

Max brings to his teaching not only technical excellence and performance insight, but also a passion for improvisation, creative exploration, and helping students connect deeply with music. He creates lessons that are engaging, supportive, and fun, whether students are preparing for exams, tackling advanced repertoire, or discovering the joy of playing.