Sophie Baxter

I first wanted to play the cello when I was 7 years old, after listening to Saint-Saen's 'the Swan' being performed at a local concert. Shortly after, I began to have cello lessons, and absolutely loved it!

I have been lucky to study with fantastic teachers during my education, most recently with David Cohen, Sally Pendlebury, Tim Lowe and Sue Lowe.

I graduated with a first in music, specialising in performance, from Durham University in 2020.

I am friendly and approachable, fully DBS checked, and have extensive training in safeguarding.

After graduating from Durham, I spent three years working in two of the UK's specialist music schools; the Purcell School and Wells Cathedral School. Working here gave me extensive experience teaching 1-1, in small groups and leading ensembles.

I joined the teaching faculty at the James Allen Saturday School for Performing Arts in Dulwich in 2024, and also at the Blackheath Conservatoire.

I have a PGCE in group instrumental teaching through Music Masters, a leading London charity. Studying this course has shown me the importance of giving children choices and opportunities for them to lead and take ownership of their learning. I plan my lessons to be fast-paced, engaging, but also establish good routines. I want all of my pupils to feel supported and inspired, and I adapt my approach to each pupil, depending on their needs and goals.

I am knowledgeable about teaching cello technique, an my aim is to provide my pupils with an excellent technical foundation, which they can use to help them express their musicality and ideas in the pieces they enjoy playing.

For teaching beginners, I use a variety of methods such as Suzuki, Kodaly and Dalcroze, with an emphasis on teaching aurally and developing their musicianship skills, as well as reading music notation.

I live in Greenwich, London, normally travelling to teach at my pupil's houses, or teaching online.