Hi, I’m Lydia. I’m a pianist living and working in the beautiful Cotswolds, UK. I’m currently available as a wedding pianist, piano teacher or accompanist in the Cotswold area.

Growing up

I grew up in Bolton where I fell in love with the piano at the age of 5. I studied the piano (gaining a distinction in my grade 8 at age 15) and the violin.

I was fortunate to be surrounded by many opportunities for music making both in my state school with it’s incredible music department, and in the wider community. I began working as an accompanist at the age of 16, for local choral societies, amateur dramatics groups and soloists.

Before leaving school I had many wonderful musical opportunities including performing Grieg’s piano concerto with Bolton Youth Orchestra, playing the celeste with Bolton Symphony Orchestra in the Bridgewater Hall for a performance of Mahler’s 8th symphony and playing the piano in the pit for ‘The Hot Mikado’ – the highlight of which was the pianist getting shot partway through one of the songs – (my only foray into acting..) to name but a few!

My university education

I studied music at Royal Holloway, University of London where I specialised in performance and was taught by Professor James Kirby. I was also fortunate enough to have a number of masterclasses with Russian concert pianist Sergei Dukachev and this led to an opportunity to perform ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’ by Mussorgsky in Southwark Cathedral.

My work experience

After graduating I worked as a teacher for Surrey County Arts and accompanist for soloists, local choirs and amateur dramatics societies. I also continued to perform including Gershwin’s ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ with Surrey Youth Wind Orchestra and ‘Concerto in F’ with Bolton Symphony Orchestra.

Playing piano in the Cotswolds
Almost 15 years ago I moved to the beautiful Cotswolds and have been in demand as a teacher and accompanist ever since. I began teaching in local schools and then built my own multi teacher studio, Cotswold Piano Studio (link) to meet the demand for lessons. We now have nearly 200 pupils across 7 schools and privately, with more demand to meet! I have also worked with a number of local choirs including Sutton Singers and the Bampton Singers, and I am the regular accompanist for The Wychwood Singers. I work as a pianist for weddings and events and I am available for solo accompaniment. I love opportunities for performance and really enjoyed performing both a ‘Monday Morning Music’ concert and an ‘Advent Piano’ Concert. A neck injury last year made performing more difficult – but watch this space for more!

My Philosophy of Music

I remain passionate about community music making at all levels and believe that everyone should have the opportunity to make music in some form or other, whatever their age and skill level!