David Howard-Baker

My teaching experience spans 11 years including: private tutoring and coaching, primary and secondary education and international empowerment programmes. Currently, I teach piano across London and coach for Oxbridge Admissions (London and Online).

I graduated with a BA in Music from the University of Oxford with First-Class Honours in 2020. Coming from a comprehensive school in a deprived area of the southwest, where opportunities were scarce, I was one of the first in my school to attend Oxbridge. These experiences give me unique insight into navigating competitive admissions from any background. I also completed the Oxford Foundation Year on a full scholarship, where I received intensive mentoring from Oxford professors, application specialists, and interview coaches. Two years in a row, I worked with Oxford’s admissions team, invigilating admissions tests, coordinating with professors, and supported numerous interview candidates throughout the process.

Alongside teaching, I am an active professional musician. For over six years, I have performed with Mandrake Handshake, touring the UK and Europe, releasing multiple records, featuring on the charts (4th for Independent albums) and most recently touring with Del Amitri. Under my solo project Silver Sakura, I self-produced my debut album Childhood Sketches, blending solo piano with experimental jazz, and featuring on BBC introducing and international radio stations. I have also composed and produced music for films and documentaries. These experiences allow me to bring real-world musicianship into lessons, helping students connect their learning to live performance, creativity, and a wider musical world.

TESTIMONIALS:

“Outstanding teacher... fun, friendly, expert, whip smart and excellent at delivering real results.” — Philip, choir master 

“David was a 5-star piano teacher... caring, dedicated and patient... highly skilled in creating engaging lessons.” — Catarina, parent