Amy Simpkin
PIANO
Hello, I’m Amy Simpkin! I’m a young and enthusiastic freelance musician, and am very excited about music-making. I wear many hats: from piano instructor, composer, and workshop leader, to songwriter and Christian worship leader. Through all the work I do, I strive to make music accessible to people, giving everyone a chance to grow a love of music as I have.
Over my last 9 years of piano teaching experience, I have learned to adapt my style of teaching for all pupils, going at their own pace and choosing repertoire and songs to work on based on the individual and their goals. I have ABRSM Grade 8 and a diploma (ARSM) both with distinction, as well as recently passing my dipABRSM in piano teaching. The research for this diploma covered several aspects of teaching piano performance and technique, and has developed my confidence in teaching from beginner level through to an intermediate (grade 6) level.
As an emerging composer, I’m excited about creatively making music in new ways, and working with communities and ensembles to share the joy of music together. I recently graduated from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland with an honours degree in Composition, where I got the privilege of studying with composers Ailie Robertson and David Fennessy. My music has been performed by Red Note Ensemble, the Marion Consort, Juice Vocal, and I’ve also had the chance to write for several groups in community settings. These include a project with Live Music Now, creating a new piece designed specifically for a residential care home setting, as well as Making Music’s ‘Adopt a Composer Scheme’, writing a collaborative piece for a Ladies’ choir in Dollar. I work closely with Sound Scotland as a workshop leader and composer, and look forward to leading several workshops in schools in Aberdeen in September 2024.
I really do believe that music is for sharing, with everyone, from all walks of life. In all of my compositions and performances, I strive to reach and move people, allowing them to make an emotional connection to my music. My faith deeply influences my work. I have recently completed a year-long internship at my church in Glasgow, where I lead worship and help support and coordinate the team. I love writing reflective songs for a church worship context, and I have produced and released multiple songs, most recently my single: ‘I Will Be Still’. I’m looking forward to more opportunities to combine my passions for faith, community and music this year.
What to expect from lessons with Amy?
I’m delighted to be offering 1-1 lessons in piano here at Queen’s Park School of Music. Lessons will be tailored to suit the individual, and we’ll choose repertoire to work through based on the pupils’ interests. Should pupils wish to aim for exams, I have experience preparing pupils for several different exams boards, including ABRSM and Rockschool, and am happy to guide them in this process. I’m also happy to bring in elements of composition, music theory and songwriting to lessons, and encourage pupils to be creative in their playing. Lessons are well structured, and depending on the age and stage of the pupil will involve warm-ups, focused work on pieces, creative time and musical games. I encourage regular practise at home, with oversight from parents for younger pupils. Overall, music lessons should be fun and enjoyable, and it’s important this remains our motivation for learning. I can’t wait to share my love of music with you!
amy@queensparkschoolofmusic.co.uk