I started piano as a child who loved music. But I was slow to become proficient as I avoided practice. As I grew up, I took to it with a passion. When I finished secondary school I took up a temporary job. During this time I studied music education at an extra-mural course conducted two nights a week for two years in U.C.G (now NUIG). I received my first Diploma, and had already nervously began to take on some piano students. I went on to do a DIP.LCM in performance and an ALCM in teaching. I have worked in three local schools, and have been giving private lessons since 1985. I like to promote a joy for music by getting students to play fun pieces, learn some off by heart, do duets, and perform at a local charity concert bi-yearly. Some of my students have performed at masterclasses conducted by International Pianists. Many have moved on to third level education in music and teach also. Some have received High Achievers Awards, which are awarded to the top 2 percent examined by The Royal Irish Academy of Music. And several have been awarded Gold Medals for performance. A select few won scholarships to further Music Education. I like to believe that I make their lessons an enjoyable experience. Its not all work, we have great fun too.

          I have been painting since 1999 with a local art school The Paint-Box, and after producing a portfolio and going through an interview system, I was accepted onto an Art Course in G.M.I.T.  Galway.  As I teach music full-time, I am studying Art part-time. I am now in year 4 of 6, doing a Bachelor of Art & Design. Its an eclectic bunch of people, teachers and students alike.  Art History involves essay-writing, critical assessments and a thesis in yr 5. In the early years, our practicals were fairly structured but with a certain amount of freedom. Now, we have a much more free-hand. We can do any style using any medium. Its gives great freedom to experiment.  It means lots of hours of work at home, but I just love it. Its a great form of escapism.