Music & Drama Extra Curricular Lessons
We are delighted to introduce our specialist drama and music teachers available for extra curricular lessons for all students, please contact them directly to find out more
Teresa Grimsditch – LAMDA
Teresa Grimsditch is a trained actor (BA) and a qualified acting coach (MA). Teresa trained at three different UK drama schools and now, as well as teaching at LVS Ascot, she teaches at many of top drama training establishments including RADA, Royal Central, Bristol Old Vic, Drama Centre London and the National Film and Television School.
During her time at LVS Ascot, Teresa has entered pupils for a total of 237 LAMDA examinations, which has resulted in 9 Passes, 93 Merits and 136 Distinctions (with no fails). Teresa is delighted to be investing her knowledge and expertise into teaching and inspiring the future generation of acting talent.
If you would like to find out more about LAMDA at LVS Ascot she would be delighted to hear from you. Please email her on GrimsditchLAMDA@gmail.com
Marina Sadzakov MA, BMus, LTCL – Piano Teacher
Marina is a Teacher of Piano with 30 years of experience. After completing the equivalent of A level education in Croatia and gaining the Associate Diploma in Piano with distinction at the age of eighteen, she continued with piano and music studies at the University of Novi Sad, Serbia and graduated with a Bachelor’s in music (Hons) degree.
After that Marina took up her first job as a Piano teacher and the principal accompanist for a few years at a Specialist Music school in Slovenia, before relocating to the UK for postgraduate studies.
Marina’s second instrument of study was the church Organ which she studied at Trinity College London with Professor Geoffrey Hanson and obtained the LTCL Performer’s Diploma. She also graduated from The University of Reading with a Master’s degree in Organ Historiography in 2001, after which she pursued her teaching career in England.
As an accompanist, Marina has played at international competitions in Italy and accompanied in a number of concerts in Germany, Austria, Croatia and the UK. Her students regularly take part in piano competitions and have gained some notable medals and trophies in the solo and duet categories in the UK as well as in Slovenia.
In her free time, Marina is leading the Ladies’ Vocal Group as an arranger and accompanist. She also likes playing the harp as her third instrument.
A passion for teaching and the joy of watching her students progress are the main motivations and goals in Marina’s teaching career. Please contact her on marina.sadzakov@yahoo.com
Fernando de Nijs – Violin Teacher
Fernando de Nijs is Head of Violin and Viola at LVS Ascot, and upper strings teacher at Berkshire Maestros and Surrey Arts.
Fernando obtained a Diploma in viola performance and violin teaching at the Royal Sweelinck Conservatory of Amsterdam, followed by winning a First Prize with distinction at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels. As a performer, Fernando has been a member of some of the worlds most prestigious orchestras in Europe, such as the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra in Amsterdam and the European Union Orchestra, among others.
Fernando`s teaching career began in the Netherlands, and then on to Head of Strings at Crawford College, Reddam House and Rondebosch Boys` Preparatory School in South Africa. His teaching and performing expertise has enabled him to work all over the world, performing throughout Europe, Canada, Russia and South Africa.
Currently Fernando works as a coach and performer with the Berkshire Youth Symphony Orchestra and is the conductor of the Bracknell Senior String Ensemble.
Fernando holds firm his belief that the future of music lies in the investment of our young learners and welcomes all students.
For more information please contact Fernando on denysfdn@gmail.com
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Ashley Garbett – Drum and Guitar Teacher
My entire career has been exclusively music orientated; as an active musician in the U.K. pop scene, running an online session recording service, composing for TV and the most extensive of which being instrumental tuition over the past twenty years.
Alongside teaching, I have always been an active freelance musician. Numerous years of which based in London, working in a multitude of styles and settings, including touring Canada and Europe, showcases for artists under Warner Brothers, Universal and First Access Entertainment, performing at commercial festivals including BST at Hyde Park London and on live national T.V. The more notable of which was achieved playing drums for pop band ‘Stooshe’.
Some of my recording work has included playing on the official 2012 Olympics promotional animation – ‘Rainbow To The Games’ and recording backing tracks for ‘Total Guitar’ magazine. My compositional work has also been used for TV placement on the American network FOX Sports.
I have gained most of my teaching experience as a peripatetic teacher for numerous schools and music services through primary/secondary/college age groups and as a private teacher. I am extremely passionate about music, combining that with my experience within the industry I am certain these are assets that filter in to my teaching and as a by-product can hopefully help to inspire others to achieve their personal goals within music. I am a very friendly and approachable person, I am very determined in everything I do to achieve great results and I hope my skills and personality can be of service to your child’s musical education.
Promotional video link – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Igui7xX8dzQ
For more information please contact agarbettmusic@gmail.com
Sarah Parsons – Piano Teacher
Sarah is a talented piano teacher with experience of taking beginners of all ages up to Grade 8. A BA(Hons) graduate of the University of London in German with Music, Sarah is currently studying for her Trinity College LTCL Diploma in Instrumental/Vocal Teaching.
Moving from her initial career in recruitment and training Sarah followed her passion for music in 2015 and started teaching piano. She has since become a well regarded full time teacher, teaching piano, singing and music theory privately and at other schools in Hampshire and Surrey. Her pupils have had success with ABRSM, Trinity, LAMDA & Rock School exam boards.
Embracing all styles of music, Sarah’s musical exposure covers playing the piano at concerts and festivals, playing the oboe in orchestras, singing solo and in choirs and taking part in musicals. She is dedicated to enthusing, encouraging and inspiring young musicians and guiding them on their musical journey.
Away from her music and teaching Sarah enjoys a family life with two teenagers and an under ten football fanatic, leaving a small window for her interests in photography and horses.
Please contact: sarah@picsnclics.com
Kerry Hawkins – Singing Teacher
Kerry Trained at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, and in 2006 gained a (First Class Hons) degree in Musical Theatre and Performance.
Weeks after graduating Kerry gained her first professional role at the renowned Menier Chocolate Factory in the production of The Last Five Years where she understudied and played the leading role of Cathy, directed by Matthew White. During a successful run in The Last Five Years, Kerry also began rehearsals for her first West End production in the Original cast and revival of The Sound of Music at the infamous London Palladium. Working alongside Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, It was here she fulfilled her childhood dream performing as Maria Von Trapp as the understudy to reality TV winner Connie Fisher. She also understudied and played the role of the eldest Von Trapp child Leisl.
After a year in London’s West End Kerry then went on to playing the role of Columbia, and understudy Janet in the first ever European Tour of The Rocky Horror Show, directed by Sam Buntrock. Playing to sell out audiences in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy and Spain. Kerry not only gained experience in many different theatres and Arenas but was lucky enough to experience some fantastic countries. Back on home turf, Kerry leaped into one of her favourites ever musicals winning the role of Jan in Grease the Musical at London’s Piccadilly Theatre. It was in Grease that Kerry completed her longest contract, staying with the show for almost 2 years.
Wanting to try something new and exciting Kerry then auditioned and was successful gaining a role in Shrek The Musical at one of London’s oldest and largest theatres Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Here Kerry used her vocal ability to its best , understudying and playing the role of Dragon, voicing one of the largest, most impressive puppets ever used on stage.
Kerry then spent a Christmas in China, touring 27 cities with the show ‘Dancing Queen’ as the lead singer. When returning Kerry was asked to return to Shrek The Musical , and took off on its first ever Number 1 Uk Tour.
Other credits during Kerry’s career so far include Bloodbath (Edinburgh Festival), an new dark comedy written by Tony Mchale (writer of Holby City) New and innovative musical Nursery Crimes (Kings Head Theatre, London), and workshops for new musical The Little Prince by Andrew Llloyd Webbers son Nicolas Lloyd Webber at The Shorditch Theatre.
In 2014 Kerry played her biggest venue London’s ‘O2 Arena’. It was here that she put her management skills to the test, leading and creating ‘Ovation’ choir. Hiring singers for Josh Grobans UK Tour ‘All that Echoes’. As well as singing in the choir, she was also one of three backing singers for Josh, supporting him for the entirety of his UK Tour.
Recordings include: The Sound of Music (original cast recording), soloist for EMI production/library music (various) and Spirit of Broadway for Spirit of the Dance.
TV Includes: The Alan Titchmarsh Show (ITV), This Morning (ITV) an Benissimo (Switzerland).
Since starting her family, Kerry has worked as a high level vocal coach for the past 8 years, inspiring the next generation of performers as well as building confidence in students of all ages.
Please contact kerry@thesingstudio.com
Alicia Rendle – Singing Teacher
Alicia has developed a supportive encouraging teaching style that is focused on building pupils’ confidence through vocal technique, repertoire development, performance skills and microphone technique, harmonizing, songwriting and music theory. She offers individually tailored private lessons for pupils of all levels in a fun and friendly environment as well as singing and music workshops, for classrooms and small groups in schools and choirs. Alicia has taught at theatre and dance schools and music colleges, where she has lectured at degree level.
Exam syllabus are taught for classical, musical theatre and pop/rock singing grades. Alicia has a 100% pass rate with the majority achieving high merit and distinction. Alicia will prepare her students for exams, concerts and competitions when it is felt that they have reached a suitable level as well as audition and scholarship preparations and performance tuition for A & AS level students with some pupils going on to full time performing arts training.
Alicia is an experienced performer having worked as a soloist and in numerous blues bands, duos, jazz quartets, function bands, as well as composing and performing original work. She has trained with Penny Price-Jones, Kim Chandler, Jono McNeil and Line Hilton and received teacher training with Janice Thompson and Coral Gould.
Training & courses
Reflective Mentoring with Dr Phill Mullen
Modally training at The British Kodaly Academy
Vocal Health First Aider level 2
The Estil Model Introduction course
AOTOS Pathways training course
AOTOS Teacher development course
Member of the Association of Teachers of Singing (AOTOS) and keeping up to date with the latest in music teaching and vocal advances and regularly attending safeguarding training.
Education & Qualifications
BA Vocal Performance from the Academy of Contemporary Music
ABRSM Grade 8 (Distinction) and ABRM Diploma (Distinction)
London College of Music Musical Theatre Diploma
Please contact alicia_rendle@hotmail.com
Sue Dunsdon DipCLCM PGCE – Woodwind instruments Teacher
A highly experienced instrumental teacher specializing in clarinet, saxophone and flute, Sue studied Jazz and Contemporary Music at the City of Leeds College of Music, graduating on all three instruments. She also has a Certificate in Education from Bretton Hall College of Education. After a spell working as an administrator for The London Sinfonietta, Sue moved to Berkshire and has been a successful music educator for over 30 years, with many of her students reaching Conservatoire level and progressing into careers in music. Sue regularly conducts the Windsor Music Centre Senior Wind Orchestra and Jazz Orchestra, taking them to national level, has experience in running workshops and still performs regularly with local Big Bands, Saxophone Quartets and musical theatre companies, including musical LVS productions.
Katie Price – Singing Teacher
Kate is currently a class teacher in the infant and junior school at LVS ascot. She teaches singing lessons outside of usual lesson time (Past 4pm).
Katie teaches a range of singing styles across the age ranges so that children can try out different styles to suit them.
She has a music degree, specializing in singing performance, from the University of Nottingham and has been teaching 121 music lessons since 2017.
Please feel free to contact Kate about singing lessons at kpconnected1@gmail.com or find out more information on her website: https://kpconnected1.wixsite.com/kpconnected
Keith Jenkins – Guitar Teacher
I have taught guitar at LVS for nearly twenty years and in that time have had the pleasure of teaching many students who developed the skills to play and enjoy the guitar for many years to come. I teach acoustic guitar in classical, folk and more popular styles and ages range from year 2 through to the senior school. Also teach the electric guitar for solo and playing in group situations within the school. Most students are interested in performance tuition and have a particular style or player in mind, but exam level grades are also available.
The lessons are weekly and last for 30 minutes and are timetabled through the term. I try to make learning enjoyable with the emphasis on wanting to practice and play with others so development is rapid. I find the musical environment at the school very healthy, and I run two ‘band club’ sessions per week to encourage group playing. It is not competitive, very relaxed and enjoyable (and fun)! for the students.
I have travelled the world in all situations from rock bands through to West End musicals and orchestras. I have played on several albums, and away from the school write and record in my own studio and at present am part of a large jazz-influenced ensemble based in London.
I am involved in the school’s stage musicals when needed and encourage students to come along to see what’s involved as another aspect of playing.
I look forward to welcoming new students.
John Watts – Brass instruments Teacher
John Watts began his brass-playing journey on the tenor horn followed by euphonium before eventually settling on the tuba aged 16.
John studied at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff where he performed with all of the top college ensembles and orchestras. During his time there he won the Linda Mowat Brass Prize, an award from the Wolfson Foundation and a coveted place on the BBC National Orchestra of Wales placement scheme. Since graduating in 2003 John has gone on to gain a Licentiate from the Royal Schools of Music with Distinction.
John teaches all brass instruments to students of all ages and abilities. He teaches across Berkshire and the surrounding areas and has had a number of students in the in the National Children’s Orchestra. John has also successfully prepared students for entry to conservatoires and Junior Music Colleges.
John is the Musical Director of the St Sebastian Wokingham Band and conducts a number of senior youth bands in the area. John plays with many local groups and is the tuba player in the Chiltern Brass Quintet. He has also worked on a variety of other musical projects including two Urban Orchestra programmes which fused classical and contemporary musical genres.
In 2014 John co-wrote a Foundation in Brass Teaching course which was delivered over a fortnight to some experienced brass players in Uganda on behalf of the charity Brass for Africa. It was an extremely rewarding and inspirational two weeks and has further enhanced his understanding of the amazing power that music has.
John Watts BMus LRSM
Brass Teacher & Conductor
T: 07905 087478
Verity Auty BMus (hons) RNCM MMus GSMD – Singing Teacher
Verity Auty studied at the National Opera Studio and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. She started her career in the Glyndebourne Chorus and went on to sing roles with the major UK opera companies such as Grange Park Opera and Scottish Opera. She also took part in major education projects with companies such as Garsington and Glyndebourne. She still performs regularly. While still at school she won the International Musical Theatre Award in Rome.
Verity has taught for over 20 years and currently teaches at LVS, Heathfield, Holyport college and privately. She has great experience with the ABRSM, Trinity and Rock School exams as well as preparing students for GCSE and A-Level Music. She also prepares students for professional work and has taught two Matilda’s in the West End as well as having two students at major performing arts colleges with Andrew Lloyd Webber Scholarships.
Michael Whitman – Drum Teacher
LVS Ascot is a mainstream independent school delivering excellent academic provision to day & boarding students, LVS Hassocks and LVS Oxford are specialist schools providing outstanding education to students with an Autism diagnosis.
We pass our congratulations to LVS Hassocks for recently being awarded the IQM Centre of Excellence Award 2021, ISA Award for Outstanding Provision for Learning Support 2020 and to Principal Jen Weeks for receiving outstanding level of recognition being shortlisted for the prestigious Tes (Times Education Supplement) Head of the Year award.