Manuel B. Classical Piano, Accompanying, Music Theory, Music Reading, Music History New York, NY

Until recently based in London, Manuel’s teaching pedigree is impeccable. He has studied with Ruth Nye, herself a student of Claudio Arrau, and extensively with the illustrious Maria Curcio, one of the few surviving students of Artur Schnabel. For the last fifteen years, Manuel’s renowned studio in London has prepared students for practical and theory examinations while working with pianists of all standards to develop their technique, style, musicality, repertoire and confidence as well as their love of all styles of music. His newly established New York teaching practice welcomes beginners of all ages, adult re-starters, examination candidates as well as advanced students and pianists preparing for international competitions. He works from a number of studios in central Manhattan and also offers home lessons.

Originally from Zimbabwe, Manuel has performed as a solo pianist and accompanist in fourteen countries and won prizes in the Newport International and Royal Overseas League (London) piano competitions. He performed in the John Schlesinger movie, Madame Sousatzka starring Shirley Maclaine, and has appeared as soloist with the BBC Welsh and Cape Town Symphony Orchestras. Extensive popular music performances include shows with British television comedian Michael Barrymore and a solo appearance at the London Palladium, as well as composing the music for a series of UK Channel 4 documentaries entitled ‘Africa Unmasked’. He performed a recital for the Queen and other dignitaries at a State Banquet in London and shared a fundraising Gala programme with British ballerina, Darcey Bussell. His extensive accompanying experience includes a performance with Albanian tenor Samir Pirgu at a Guildhall gala to mark the presentation of Luciano Pavarotti with the Freedom of the City of London. Among his many fans is the famed British artist, David Hockney, who has painted Manuel at the piano a number of times.

Manuel is Founder and Artistic Director of the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) and board member of the International Workshop Festival (London).

I love teaching and particularly enjoy knowing that I offer students the tools they need to develop their interest and talent, whatever type of music they choose to play. I remember dreaming about playing the piano as a young child and feel very privileged to share the enormous pleasure that comes from playing and understanding music theory with my students. Regardless of age, I ensure that students work in a way that is specifically tailored to their needs, whether piano or theory examinations, learning to read and play for pleasure, preparing for professional qualifications or competitions, refreshing and developing skills learned as a child, or simply developing a deeper understanding of music.

Early lessons might focus on finding your way around the keyboard, reading skills, rhythm studies and an introduction to tonality through scales and chords. I also work with students on building strength and technique from the very beginning and apply everything learned to repertoire that is chosen to engage and encourage further practice. I want students to really enjoy their lessons with me and encourage them to share their musical enthusiasm and particular interests. After a very few lessons I believe I can have any student playing something appealing while developing musical knowledge, specific pianistic skills and general confidence.

Learning to read music is the starting point with all my students. Many are particularly interested in playing classical pieces but I work with students to use their reading skills to play any style of music that interests them. I try to ensure that students achieve fast results and offer fun and varied lessons that mix technical training, reading, theory as well as experimentation with chords etc. My teaching practice in London included a wide range of ages and abilities including several young beginners, adult re-starters and young professional pianists preparing for competitions.

Classical Piano, Accompanying, Music Theory, Music Reading, Music History