Hi!
I have something to tell you. It’s better you know now, rather than later. I am a total cello geek! Playing, practising, reading, watching, listening, talking. If it’s to do with the cello, then I’m all yours.
Why is this important for you to know?
I bring ALL my knowledge, skill and experience to help you.
I love working with beginner cellists. Helping them to have the best start to their cello journey. With excellent foundations in place, you can then fully express yourself. Be able to share your musical story.
I’m still learning. Which for you is ideal, because I will always have something to share with you.
My story if you want to know more:
I started the cello in Year 3 through the East Sussex Music Service. I enjoyed the fantastic opportunities of Brighton You Orchestra, East Sussex Youth Orchestra and chamber music coaching from the Sussex Schools Chamber Music Scheme.
At 16 I was fortunate enough to study with Alison Moncrieff-Kelly at the East Sussex Academy of Music in Lewes. She helped me prepare for conservatoire auditions. I gained a place at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire with a full scholarship. I graduated with Principle’s Prize for outstanding contribution.
One of the most cherished moments of my cello journey was studying with the renowned cello teacher Sue Lowe. Her guidance helped me gain an LTCL performance diploma with distinction and become a Fellow of Trinity College London. I attended her International Cello Gathering Courses, which gave me guidance from cellists such as Alexander Baillie, Adrian Brendel, Pierre Doumnege, Louise Hopkins, Matt Lowe, Tim Lowe and Anna Shuttleworth. Sue’s pedagogical approach still has an influence on my teaching today.
Since my studies, I have freelanced with many different orchestras and ensembles. Performing in concert halls around the UK, broadcasting on Radio & TV and in recording studios. I currently work a lot with the Hastings Philharmonic Orchestra.
My vocation is in music education. It is the main focus of my professional career. I love to explore pedagogical research and put it into practice. My fascination with education lead me to complete the Teaching Musician PGCert course at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music & Dance. I currently direct & teach at The Strings Centre in Hastings, as well as at Junior Trinity, James Allen’s Girls School, Dulwich Prep Cranbrook and Hilden Grange School. I also mentor cello teachers on the Music Masters PGCEi course and tutor for South London Youth Orchestra.
It is a privilege to be able to help so many young musicians and incredible teachers.
Ollie Mansfield 