Meet the tutors at
The Glasgow School of Music
Step into the extraordinary world of music education at the Glasgow School of Music, where our dynamic team of tutors brings passion, expertise, and a commitment to excellence to every lesson. Our tutors aren't just educators; they are the heart and soul of our vibrant musical community.
At the Glasgow School of Music, we believe in the transformative power of music, and our tutors embody this belief through their dedication to nurturing aspiring musicians. Beyond their technical prowess, our tutors are passionate mentors, guiding students on a journey of self-discovery and musical expression.
Immerse yourself in an environment where creativity flourishes, and teaching goes beyond the conventional. Our tutors are more than instructors; they are collaborators, inspiring students to explore their unique musical voices and fostering a deep love for the art.
Join us in celebrating the diverse talents of our tutors, each bringing their own musical expertise and teaching style to our community. At the Glasgow School of Music, we invite you to discover the difference that dedicated and passionate tutors can make in your musical journey.
Ready to embark on a musical adventure with us? Explore the world of possibilities with our exceptional team of tutors at the Glasgow School of Music, where every note is an opportunity for growth, expression, and musical excellence.
Paul Murray
Director
Piano | Composition | Theory
Meet Paul, a dedicated pianist at The Glasgow School of Music, who has devoted his life to mastering the art of music with over a decade of teaching experience. Having worked with industry luminaries like composer Paul Mealor and Prof. Nigel Clayton, a senior professor at the Royal College of Music in London, Paul brings a wealth of expertise to his role as the founder of our school.
Driven by the belief that music is a universal language, Paul is committed to making music lessons accessible to everyone in the Central Belt of Scotland. Drawing on his vast experience and knowledge, he directs his focus on providing the highest quality education to each student.
Paul's performances have taken him worldwide, playing for prestigious audiences, including HRH Queen Camilla and the late HRH Queen Elizabeth II & HRH Prince Phillip. Notably, he performed the Scottish premiere of Martinu’s Piano Concerto for Left Hand Alone, showcasing his technical ability and artistic skill.
Paul's inspiring journey, chronicled in the popular documentary "Chopin Changed My Life," aired on Channel 4 and made headlines globally. The documentary delves into Paul’s overcoming of a major life event, becoming a master of transcribing challenging piano music for the left hand alone. His story is one of perseverance, determination, and an unwavering passion for music.
For those seeking a highly experienced, knowledgeable, and passionate teacher, Paul is the perfect choice. His unmatched ability to inspire and motivate students, coupled with his dedication to the craft, makes him an exceptional guide on your musical journey. Join Paul today and experience the joy of music like never before.
Sarah Power
Administrator
Voice | Piano
Meet Sarah, a Dublin-born professional opera singer and voice teacher with a BMus and MMus from the TU Conservatory in Dublin. Sarah's passion for music education led her to obtain a Postgraduate Diploma in Performance from The Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester. She further honed her skills at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama in London and the National Opera Studio before joining Scottish Opera as an Emerging Artist, eventually making Glasgow her home.
Sarah's impressive career includes performances with Welsh National Opera, Buxton Opera Festival, Wexford Festival Opera, Irish National Opera, and Scottish Opera. Notable roles include her debut as Rodelinda in Handel’s production with Scottish Opera and participation in premieres like Hazel: Made in Belfast at Carnegie Hall, New York, and Janice Kerbel’s Turner Prize-nominated work DOUG at Tramway, Glasgow.
Since 2013, Sarah has been actively involved with Scottish Opera’s Education Department and the Scottish Opera Young Company, working with talented young performers aged 16-21. As an ISM-Registered Private Teacher, Sarah welcomes students of all ages and abilities, offering expertise in classical, opera, musical theatre, folk, and pop music. Her DBS/PVG Enhanced Disclosure certification ensures a safe learning environment for working with children or vulnerable adults.
Whether you aspire to sing solo or join a choir for pure enjoyment, Sarah can guide you in discovering your true voice. From improving breathing techniques and posture to building confidence and expanding your repertoire, she is here to help you achieve your musical goals.
Esther Norie
Cello | Piano | Recorder | Harp
Meet Esther Norie, a versatile musician from Edinburgh, skilled in harp, cello, and piano. Originally pursuing Modern Languages, Esther's passion for music led her to perform in orchestras and ensembles. She achieved First Class Honours in her Bachelor of Music, earning the prestigious Goudie Prize from the University of Glasgow.
Beyond her instrumental talents, Esther is an accomplished choral singer, contributing her voice to groups like Sydney Philharmonia Choirs, Edinburgh Royal Choral Union, and presently, the University of Glasgow Chapel Choir. Currently, Esther serves as an instrumental tutor and specializes as a wedding harpist. Her musical collaborations extend to recordings with fellow musicians in Glasgow. Join Esther in exploring the harmonious world of music, where her expertise and passion create a delightful learning experience.
Corina Ignat
Voice | Piano
Meet Corina, a Romanian-born opera singer who has honed her craft through rigorous training and an impressive array of performances. After earning both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the Royal Irish Academy of Music in Dublin, Corina continues to build her career across some of the UK's most prestigious opera stages.
Her dedication to opera has led her to work with esteemed institutions such as Glyndebourne Opera Festival, Irish National Opera, Wexford Festival Opera, and the Grange Festival. Notable roles in her repertoire include Marie in La fille du régiment, the Stepmother in Cinderella, Dame 3 in L'aube rouge, and Nella in Gianni Schicchi, all with Wexford Festival Opera, as well as the Queen of the Night in The Magic Flute and Arminda
in La finta giardiniera with RIAM Opera.
In addition to her operatic achievements, Corina has performed as a soprano soloist in major concert works, including Bach's Cantata BWV 191 and Walton’s Missa Brevis at the National Concert Hall in Dublin. She was also featured in the Rising Stars concert at Limerick University Concert Hall.
Her talent has been recognised with First Prize in both the Irene Sandford Competition for Singers and the Geoghegan Cup Competition. Since embarking on her professional journey, Corina has also dedicated herself to music education, sharing her expertise with aspiring singers of all ages and levels.
Additionally, she teaches piano up to Grade 4, offering students a solid foundation in musicianship. Whether you're looking to develop your classical technique, explore the operatic repertoire, or improve your piano skills, Corina offers tailored lessons designed to help you find and refine your unique voice and musicianship.
She is committed to fostering a positive and supportive learning environment, ensuring each student reaches their full potential.
in La finta giardiniera with RIAM Opera.
Carly MacCready
Trumpet/Horn (Brass)
Carly is a Horn player and arts practitioner from Aberdeen, Scotland. She studied Music Performance at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and has had the opportunity to play with groups such as the RSNO, Scottish Opera and the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. Carly has been teaching with Sistema Scotland's Big Noise programme since 2021, in addition to this she has been delivering music workshops for the Rufugee Council and the Scottish Prison Service. This year Carly, has been awarded a scholarship to train with 'Musicians without Boarders' at Leeds School of Art. Carly is passionate about using music as a tool for social change and is delighted to be working with the team at the Scottish Chamber Orchestra.
Lalleh Memar
Flute | Piano
Lalleh embarked on her musical journey as a flute/piano double major student at the Conservatorium High School, a renowned music institution in Sydney. Since then, her talent has graced Sydney’s major concert venues, including the Sydney Opera House concert hall, Verbrugghen Hall, NSW Government House, and the Sydney Conservatorium Recital Halls. Notable accolades include a Young Artist scholarship at the Flutes In Tuscany summer course in 2022, where she performed a captivating recital in the Chiesa di Tereglio. She also earned a bursary for the Scottish International Flute Summer School, engaging in enriching masterclasses and workshops with esteemed musicians like Wissam Boustany, Ian Clarke, and Andre Cebrian.
Lalleh's accomplishments extend to being a featured soloist in the Festival of Instrumental Music Sydney Opera House Concert Series in 2018 and 2019. In 2019, she reached the finals of the prestigious Australian Flute Festival International Flute Young Artist Competition.
Adding to her impressive credentials, Lalleh obtained her Australian Board of Music (AMEB) Cmus Piano and AmusA Flute diplomas in 2017 and 2018, respectively. She actively collaborates with her flute duo ensemble, Sonora Duo, and recently participated in a chamber music recital as part of the Wellington Concert Series in Glasgow. Additionally, Lalleh was a member of the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland and Chineke! Junior Orchestra this year.
Beyond her performances, Lalleh shares her passion for music by teaching flute, piano, and music theory to students of all ages and abilities. Join Lalleh in exploring the world of music, where her expertise and enthusiasm create a vibrant and inclusive learning environment.
Charis Tse
Flute | Piano | Theory
Meet Charis, a classically trained flautist hailing from New Jersey, USA, with a rich and diverse musical background. She has been an integral part of various ensembles, ranging from a cappella groups and choirs to jazz bands and symphony orchestras. After relocating to Scotland, Charis achieved distinction in her ABRSM Grade 8 Flute performance and ARSM Flute Diploma. Currently pursuing a degree in Medicine at the University of Glasgow, she serves as the principal flautist for the university orchestra, Kelvin Ensemble.
Charis started playing both the flute and piano at age 9. Today, her piano studies serve mostly as a solid musical foundation, but in the past, she competed in numerous Jersey Shore piano competitions, run mainly by Shore Music Educators Association. In 2018, winning one of such competitions gave her the opportunity to perform at the renowned Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Drawing from her extensive musical experience, Charis embraces an open-minded approach to music education. Her teaching style is designed to foster a student's passion by exploring a variety of musical genres and repertoire, all while ensuring a solid technical foundation. Recognizing that each student begins with unique goals, Charis adopts a flexible teaching style that accommodates students of all ages and abilities. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced musician, Charis is dedicated to helping you explore your musical passion and reach your full potential.
Christian Crome
Drums | Theory
Meet Christian, a current student in the BMus program at the University of Glasgow, where his focus lies on jazz performance, improvisation on the drums, and composition. With a keen interest in the vibrant world of music, Christian brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to his musical journey.
He has a notable history of live drum performances in bands across Glasgow and Scotland, particularly within the indie and alt-rock scene. Christian's musical prowess extends to studio and live session recording settings, showcasing his versatility.
Christian's musical journey started with the guitar at the age of 9. While he shifted his focus to drumming, his journey has been a mix of self-teaching and formal education, resulting in a set of learning techniques transferable between instruments.
In his teaching philosophy, Christian advocates for a ground-up approach. He believes in establishing a solid foundation of technique and vocabulary, empowering students to develop their unique ways of expressing themselves on their instrument. Join Christian on a musical exploration that nurtures creativity and individuality from the very core.
David Walsh
Voice | Theory
Meet David Walsh, a versatile Tenor Lay Clerk with a rich background in music. Originally from Donegal, Ireland, David is currently a freelance musician based in Glasgow, Scotland. He recently lent his tenor voice to Canterbury Cathedral and now shares his singing expertise through teaching.
David's musical journey began with his studies at the University of Aberdeen, and since then, he has graced stages around the UK and internationally. His professional singing experience includes collaborations with esteemed ensembles such as the Dunedin Consort, Sestina Early Music Ensemble, Northern Irish Opera, Aberdeen Vocal Ensemble, and many more.
Recognized for his musical prowess, David received the University of Aberdeen’s Ogston Music Prize in 2019. He is also an alumnus of Dunedin Consort’s 'Bridging the Gap' scheme and held a scholarship with the renowned vocal group Voces8.
With a passion for sharing his musical knowledge and vocal expertise, David is committed to fostering a love for singing in his students. Join him on a journey of musical discovery and vocal development that draws from his diverse and accomplished background.
Francesca Masel
Cello | Piano
Meet Francesca Masel, an accomplished Australian educator and performer, brings her passion for teaching cello and piano to students of all ages and levels. With over 8 years of teaching experience, both in schools and her private studio, Francesca is dedicated to tailoring lessons to individuals, considering their personality, learning style, and physiology.
As a dynamic performer, Francesca's musical journey has taken her to stages across Australia and internationally, including notable appearances at the 2022 Corso Internazionale di Musica in Italy and the 2019 Icicle Creek Chamber Music Festival in America. She has been a frequent collaborator with Camerata: Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra and the Australian Youth Orchestra.
Francesca holds an Associate in Music for both cello and piano and graduated from the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University with a Graduate Certificate in Music Studies and a Bachelor of Music in Performance, achieving distinctions in both degrees. Currently pursuing a Master of Music in Performance at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Francesca continues her musical journey in Glasgow.
Beyond her musical pursuits, Francesca enjoys cooking and swimming. Whether teaching, performing, or indulging in her other passions, Francesca's commitment to excellence and individualized instruction shines through. Join her in exploring the world of music with enthusiasm and tailored guidance.
Gabriela Jaros
Flute | Piano
Meet Gabriela, a talented flute player hailing from Poland, where she distinguished herself as a member of The Cracow Youth Philharmonic Orchestra and The International Lutoslawski Youth Orchestra, earning laurels in various competitions.
Graduating with the highest marks from the Complex Of State Music Schools In Cracow, Gabriela continued her musical journey in France, studying under Jean-Philippe Grometto and earning the prestigious "Diplome D’etudes Musicales." Her musical endeavors extended to teaching at a music school in Moutier, and performing with diverse orchestras and ensembles.
Since 2018, Gabriela has been refining her craft at The Royal Conservatoire Of Scotland under the guidance of Ruth Morley, Helen Brew, and Janet Richardson. A four-year tenure with the Nevis Ensemble saw her give over 200 performances, providing invaluable experience in diverse and challenging settings, and allowing her to connect with inspirational individuals.
Gabriela's European journey included a summer in Italy, performing in The Marriage Of Figaro at the Opera Academy. Noteworthy achievements during her studies in Scotland include winning the piccolo position in The National Youth Orchestra Of Scotland (2019) and the first flute position in the Universities of Scotland Symphony Orchestra. She has also guest-played with The Strasbourg Youth Symphony Orchestra and Glasgow Sinfonia.
Teaching is Gabriela's true passion, and she takes joy in sharing the love of playing music. Her students, guided by her expertise, successfully pass ABRSM exams and participate in various academies. Fluent in English, Polish, and French, Gabriela offers a multilingual teaching experience. Join Gabriela on a musical journey that transcends borders and languages.
Baillie Shepherd
Saxophone
Meet Baillie, who is currently enrolled at The University of Glasgow and specialising in Saxophone Performance. His focuses are particularly centralised around Jazz, be it the performance, composition, arrangement, or history of the rich genre. It is the pursuit of fluent improvisation that drives his passion for the world of music.
A relentless presence in the Scottish improvised music scene since the age of 17 has seen him play in sessions all the way from Glasgow to Dundee, and everywhere in-between. Although cut-throat and terrifying to beginners, these Jamming opportunities were fundamental to his musical education. By immersing himself in that world so young, he realised how flawed and unforgiving it can be. His goal was to create an environment for amateurs to develop, outside the harshness of the City Jam sessions.
As a result, Baillie has spent multiple years as the President of The Glasgow University Jazz Society: a massive community of musicians from all around Glasgow sharing a love for jazz. In his role, he has run countless regular Jam-sessions, beginner focused improv workshops, organised Masterclasses with world class talents, and so much more. Throughout it all he has been regularly performing as part of the society for years, playing prestigious awards ceremonies, black tie events, and ticketed concerts. He can also be found playing 1st Tenor in The University Big Band, aswell as the Saxophone Ensemble. In both cases, he regularly plays massive scale concerts and gigs to thousands of people.
Outwith the University, Baillie has performed with function bands all over the country, as well as solo function work - be it Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, Funerals; he has done them all, including a broad range of styles. He has also done his time in the world of Session Music, performing with alt-rock and indie-rock bands all over Glasgow, recording dates, and appearing in festival lineups.
As a teacher, Baillie believes in teaching people to teach themselves. This extends to learning in-depth about how the saxophone works, its sonic capabilities, how to engage with it effectively, and to play whatever the player desires. A Jazz-centric view is at the heart of his approach, encouraging players to find within themselves what to play in the moment and reassuring them that the only wrong notes are the ones you didn’t mean to play.
Ugne Virzonyte
Violin
Ugne is a passionate violinist hailing from Panevezys, Lithuania, whose musical journey began at the age of 5 in a local music school. Ignited by
her early love for the violin, she later transitioned to an art school where she honed her skills until her graduation in 2018. Driven by her dedication to her craft, Ugne embarked on an educational journey to Scotland, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in violin performance at the prestigious Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Subsequently Ugne decided to pursue a Master’s degree in the same field, currently midway through.
During the interlude between her Bachelor’s and Master’s programs, Ugne embarked on captivating journey across Scotland’s musical landscape,
gracing renowned venues such as the Usher Hall, St, Giles’ Cathedral, Glasgow Cathedral, Bothwell Church, and numerous other historic locales
with her performances.
In addition to her concert activity, Ugne is deeply committed to sharing her passion and expertise with aspiring musicians of all ages and abilities.
Drawing upon her extensive experience, she tailors her teaching approach to each student’s unique needs and learning style, recognising that every
individual responds differently to various teaching methods. With each lesson, Ugne strives to foster a nurturing environment that encourages
her students’ growth and empowers them to unlock their full potential.
gracing renowned venues such as the Usher Hall, St, Giles’ Cathedral, Glasgow Cathedral, Bothwell Church, and numerous other historic locales
with her performances.
Drawing upon her extensive experience, she tailors her teaching approach to each student’s unique needs and learning style, recognising that every
individual responds differently to various teaching methods. With each lesson, Ugne strives to foster a nurturing environment that encourages
her students’ growth and empowers them to unlock their full potential.