VIOLIN AND FIDDLE
Violin Lessons for Beginner/Intermediate players
Kari is an experienced and sought-after string teacher who currently works in schools in Newcastle and North Tyneside as a peripatetic violin and cello tutor.
She is a classically trained violinist, performing both as a soloist and in a string quartet at weddings, private functions and public concerts. She was also a member of Regional and National Youth Orchestras in Scotland before she moved to Newcastle to study Folk and Traditional Music at Newcastle University.
She offers private violin lessons that are tailored to each student's individual goals, interests and abilities. Whether you're picking up the violin for the very first time, hoping to achieve classical grades, you have previous playing experience and looking to pick up where you left off, or you just want to play for fun, Kari provides lessons that are enjoyable and stress free, while helping you develop strong musical and technical foundations. Alongside teaching you how to play the violin and read music, Kari strives to provide a learning environment where students can build their confidence and discover all the enjoyment and creativity that can come from making music.
Lessons are available in person from Kari's teaching space in Longbenton, NE12, or online via Zoom/ Skype. Where possible, Kari can also travel to students' homes for lessons, subject to availability and scheduling.
Pupils must have access to their own violin to use during lessons and for home practise.
Pricing :
1 : 1 30mins - £17.00
1 : 1 45mins - £23.00
1 : 1 60mins - £29.00
100% ABRSM pass rate.
Enhanced DBS on update service.
Safeguarding Children in Education Certificate 2026.
Fiddle and Composition Lessons for Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced players
Fiddle
Kari has a passion for exploring different styles of music. Although rooted in the traditional music of Scotland and with over 20 years of experience playing in ceilidh bands that have taken her all over the world from Galway to Shanghai, throughout her professional career she has had the opportunity to perform in a variety of groups that crossover multiple genres including folk, country, pop, and bluegrass. She loves bringing this diverse musical experience into her teaching and encouraging students to explore the styles they enjoy most.
These lessons may appeal to you if you are looking to introduce folk music to your professional repertoire, or you simply want to learn fiddle tunes from the British Isles, Canada or USA for fun.
Lessons will focus on developing both technique and musical expression, and learn how to use these skills to shape your playing, create your own musical ideas and develop a style that feels uniquely yours.
Price:
1 : 1 30mins - £17.00
1 : 1 45mins - £23.00
1 : 1 60mins - £29.00
Composition
Interested in composition and improvisation?
Kari can guide you through the process of writing your own tunes, helping you develop your understanding of music theory while exploring the creative elements of composition, including constructing melodies, harmonies, rhythms and textures.
Whether you're hoping to write a fiddle tune with an accompanying string arrangement, or looking for guidance on how to begin writing a violin solo that complements the musical arrangement of your favourite song, together, you'll explore and develop your creativity and build the skills and confidence to bring your own musical ideas to life.
Lessons are available in person from Kari's teaching space in Longbenton, NE12, or online via Zoom/ Skype. Where possible, Kari can also travel to students' homes for lessons, subject to availability and scheduling.
Pricing : Composition with Fiddle
1 : 1 30mins - £19.00
1 : 1 45mins - £25.00
1 : 1 60mins - £31.00
Pupils must have access to their own violin to use during lessons and for home practise.
SINGING AND SONGWRITING
Singing and Songwriting lessons for all ages and abilities
Kari works as a music facilitator specialising in singing and songwriting in and around Newcastle upon Tyne. She is passionate about using singing and music as a positive and therapeutic approach to learning, and about the benefits that music-making can have on confidence, self-expression and mental wellbeing. With over five years' experience working with a range of organisations, Kari has designed and delivered singing and songwriting sessions for children aged 7-14 through summer school programmes, young people aged 12-19 through youth music groups, and adults with learning disabilities and autism. She is committed to creating welcoming, inclusive and enjoyable music experiences where everyone can participate, express themselves and encourage their creativity to flourish.
Singing
Singing lessons will include warm-ups, vocal technique, technical exercises, vocal projection, stage presence and performance tips, helping you develop both confidence and control in your voice. Alongside improving your singing technique, Kari will encourage you to explore your own interpretation of each song and discover how to make it your own. You'll have the opportunity to sing music from a variety of genres, as well as work on songs of your own choice. Kari will also help you discover new singers, songs and musical styles that you connect with, helping you build a diverse and exciting vocal repertoire while developing your own unique style and musical identity.
Pricing: Singing Lessons
1 : 1 30mins - £17.00
1 : 1 45mins - £23.00
1 : 1 60mins - £29.00
Songwriting
Kari has developed a range of original songwriting resources through her experience delivering workshops for people of different ages and musical abilities. These resources provide a structured and accessible starting point for anyone who would like guidance through the songwriting process, while still leaving plenty of room for creativity and individual expression.
In songwriting lessons, Kari will help you take an initial idea and develop it into a fully formed song. You'll explore elements of songwriting including themes, lyrics, melody, tempo, rhythm, dynamics and expression, learning how theses elements can work together to bring your ideas to life.
You don't need to play an instrument to take part in songwriting lessons. Whether you have never written a song before or already have ideas you'd like to develop, Kari can help you find a creative approach that works for you.
Pricing: Songwriting with Singing
1 : 1 30mins - £19.00
1 : 1 45mins - £25.00
1 : 1 60mins - £31.00
Lessons are available in person from Kari's teaching space in Longbenton, NE12, or online via Zoom/ Skype. Where possible, Kari can also travel to students' homes for lessons, subject to availability and scheduling.
Interested in bringing singing and songwriting to your organisation?. Get in touch to enquire about Kari delivering an engaging and creative group workshop tailored to your organisation and participants.