Derek is a French horn teacher with experience across both performance and education. He has trained in Sydney and Scotland, performed with a range of orchestras, and has also stepped into conducting roles. This background gives his teaching a practical edge, helping students understand not just how to play, but how music works in real performance settings.
He has worked with students of all ages, with a particular strength in teaching younger learners. Derek’s approach is calm, patient, and engaging, with a strong focus on building confidence early. He prioritises creating a relaxed environment, knowing that students learn faster and enjoy the process more when they feel comfortable.
Parents and colleagues often describe Derek as easy to work with, and he takes pride in creating a positive, structured space where students feel supported. His goal is simple: help students improve each week while actually looking forward to their lessons.