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

Paul Murray is a highly experienced pianist, educator, and the founder of The Glasgow School of Music. With over a decade of teaching experience, Paul is dedicated to providing high-quality music education that is accessible to students of all levels. His teaching philosophy is built on a personalised approach, helping students develop strong technical foundations while fostering creativity and confidence. Whether guiding beginners or mentoring advanced students, Paul’s engaging and supportive style ensures a rewarding learning experience.

Paul has studied and worked alongside industry luminaries, including composer Paul Mealor and Professor Nigel Clayton of the Royal College of Music in London. His extensive performance career has taken him around the world, playing for prestigious audiences such as HRH Queen Camilla, the late Queen Elizabeth II, and HRH Prince Philip. Notably, he gave the Scottish premiere of Martinu’s Piano Concerto for Left Hand Alone, showcasing his technical mastery and expressive artistry.

Paul’s inspiring journey was chronicled in the acclaimed Channel 4 documentary Chopin Saved My Life, which gained international recognition. The documentary highlights his resilience in overcoming significant challenges, leading him to master complex piano works for the left hand alone. His story is one of perseverance, dedication, and a deep passion for music, making him a uniquely inspiring mentor for his students.

As an educator, Paul offers lessons in both classical and contemporary styles, helping students prepare for graded exams, auditions, performances, or personal development. He tailors his lessons to each student’s learning style, ensuring they gain the technical skills, musicality, and confidence needed to thrive.

Paul welcomes students of all levels, from beginners to advanced musicians. To book a lesson or find out more, get in touch today!

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.

Lalleh Memar

Flute | Piano

Lalleh began her musical journey as a flute and piano double major at the Conservatorium High School, one of Sydney’s most renowned music institutions. Since then, she has performed at some of Sydney’s most prestigious concert venues, including the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, Verbrugghen Hall, NSW Government House, and the Sydney Conservatorium Recital Halls.

Her talent has been recognised through numerous accolades, including a Young Artist scholarship at the Flutes in Tuscany summer course in 2022, where she gave a captivating recital at the Chiesa di Tereglio. She was also awarded a bursary to attend the Scottish International Flute Summer School, where she participated in masterclasses and workshops with esteemed musicians such as Wissam Boustany, Ian Clarke, and Andre Cebrian.

Lalleh has also been a featured soloist in the Festival of Instrumental Music Sydney Opera House Concert Series (2018 & 2019) and was a finalist in the prestigious Australian Flute Festival International Flute Young Artist Competition in 2019.

Her qualifications include the Australian Board of Music (AMEB) Cmus Piano and AmusA Flute diplomas, obtained in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Passionate about chamber music, she performs regularly with her flute duo, Sonora Duo, and recently took part in a chamber music recital as part of the Wellington Concert Series in Glasgow. She has also been a member of the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland and the Chineke! Junior Orchestra.

Beyond performing, Lalleh is a dedicated music educator, teaching flute, piano, and music theory to students of all ages and abilities. Her approach fosters a vibrant, inclusive, and inspiring learning environment, where she shares her expertise and enthusiasm with the next generation of musicians.

Rachael Conaghan

Voice | Piano

Rachael is a passionate and dedicated piano and singing teacher, committed to inspiring students of all ages and abilities. With a strong foundation in both disciplines, she tailors each lesson to suit the individual needs of her students, ensuring a personalised, engaging, and rewarding learning experience. Whether guiding beginners through their first steps or helping advanced students refine vocal technique, musical interpretation, and stage presence, Rachael’s warm and encouraging approach fosters confidence, creativity, and technical mastery.

Originally from County Offaly, Ireland, Rachael is a classically trained Mezzo-Soprano with extensive performance and teaching experience. She studied at the Royal Irish Academy of Music, earning a First-Class Honours degree in Vocal Performance, and is currently pursuing her Master’s at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland under the guidance of Wilma McDougall.

Rachael has excelled in prestigious vocal competitions, winning first place in both the Contralto (2022) and Mezzo-Soprano (2021) categories at Feis Ceoil. She was also awarded the bursary for Best English Art Song in the Irene Sandford Competition. As a performer, she has taken on a variety of operatic roles, including Brigid O’Mullane in the premiere of Spirits Unsurrendered (2023), La Zealatrice in Suor Angelica (2023), and Yolanda in The Sofa (2023). She has also performed in Handel’s Giulio Cesare at the Blackwater Valley Opera Festival and participated in the Opera Caledonia Vocal Studio in Edinburgh.

Beyond the stage, Rachael is deeply passionate about nurturing the next generation of musicians. She offers expert tuition in both classical and contemporary styles, preparing students for graded exams, auditions, performances, and professional development. Her structured yet supportive teaching approach equips students with a strong technical foundation, while encouraging artistic expression, musicality, and stage confidence.

Rachael welcomes students of all levels, from complete beginners to aspiring professionals, and enjoys working with those learning for personal enrichment as well as those pursuing professional goals. Whether in the teaching studio or on stage, her dedication to music and education ensures that every student receives expert guidance in a dynamic and inspiring learning environment.

David Walsh

Voice | Theory

Meet David Walsh, a versatile Tenor Lay Clerk with a distinguished career in performance and music education. Originally from Donegal, Ireland, David is now a freelance musician based in Glasgow, Scotland. He recently lent his tenor voice to Canterbury Cathedral, contributing to its rich choral tradition, and now shares his expertise as a vocal coach and educator.

David’s musical journey began at the University of Aberdeen, where he honed his skills as a classical singer. Since then, he has performed at prestigious venues and festivals across the UK and internationally, collaborating with renowned ensembles such as the Dunedin Consort, Sestina Early Music Ensemble, Northern Irish Opera, and the Aberdeen Vocal Ensemble. His performances span a wide range of sacred, early, and contemporary choral repertoire, showcasing his versatility and artistry.

Recognised for his outstanding musicianship, David was awarded the University of Aberdeen’s Ogston Music Prize (2019). He is also an alumnus of the Dunedin Consort’s ‘Bridging the Gap’ scheme and held a scholarship with the internationally acclaimed vocal group Voces8, further solidifying his place among the finest young vocalists in the field.

Beyond his performance career, David is passionate about vocal education, offering expert tuition in classical, choral, and ensemble singing. His teaching approach combines technical precision with musical expression, helping students of all levels develop their unique vocal abilities. Whether preparing for auditions, choral roles, or personal enjoyment, David provides inspiring and tailored instruction to support each student’s musical growth.

Join David on a journey of musical discovery and vocal development, where his expertise, experience, and enthusiasm create a dynamic and enriching learning environment.

Gabriela Jaros

Flute | Piano

Meet Gabriela, a talented flautist from Poland, whose musical journey has taken her across Europe as both a performer and educator. She first distinguished herself as a member of The Cracow Youth Philharmonic Orchestra and The International Lutosławski Youth Orchestra, gaining recognition in prestigious competitions.

Graduating with top honours from the Complex of State Music Schools in Cracow, Gabriela continued her studies in France, training under Jean-Philippe Grometto and earning the prestigious Diplôme d’Études Musicales. During her time in France, she taught at a music school in Moutier while performing with various orchestras and ensembles.

Since 2018, Gabriela has been further refining her artistry at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, studying under Ruth Morley, Helen Brew, and Janet Richardson. Her four-year tenure with the Nevis Ensemble saw her deliver over 200 performances, gaining invaluable experience in a range of settings while collaborating with inspiring musicians.

Her European performance journey includes a summer in Italy, where she performed in The Marriage of Figaro at the Opera Academy. In Scotland, she has won the piccolo position in the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland (2019) and the first flute position in the Universities of Scotland Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, she has guest-played with The Strasbourg Youth Symphony Orchestra and Glasgow Sinfonia.

Beyond the stage, teaching is Gabriela's true passion. She takes great joy in sharing her love of music with students of all ages and abilities, helping them successfully prepare for ABRSM exams, competitions, and academy placements. Fluent in English, Polish, and French, she provides a multilingual and immersive learning experience.

Join Gabriela on a musical journey that transcends borders and languages, where her expertise, passion, and dedication create an inspiring environment for every student.

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.

Leo Lyne

Guitar | Bass

Meet Leo, a versatile bass and guitar player with over 15 years of experience, born and raised in a professional jazz family that shaped his deep connection to music.

Leo is the bassist for the rising Glasgow band "The Big Day", who have recently performed at TRNSMT, the BBC Introducing Act of the Year Final, a support tour with Fatherson, and concerts in Sweden. His experience spans live performance, studio recording, and collaborations across multiple genres, making him a well-rounded and dynamic musician.

With such a diverse and exciting musical journey, Leo is passionate about helping others discover the joy of music. He understands that each person’s musical path is unique, and he is committed to making music more accessible to all. His lessons focus on developing confidence and musical expression, tailoring techniques and approaches to each student’s individual needs. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, Leo helps students gain a deeper understanding of their instrument and effectively communicate emotions through music.

Leo studied guitar at Glasgow Kelvin College and trained at multiple summer schools run by NYJOS (National Youth Jazz Orchestra of Scotland). His musical influences span funk, soul, jazz, bossa nova, pop, and rock, giving him a broad perspective on improvisation, rhythm, and groove.

Join Leo in exploring the power of music, where his experience, enthusiasm, and teaching expertise will help you unlock your full musical potential.

Matas Scerbauskas

Clarinet | Piano

Matas Scerbauskas discovered his passion for music at the age of eight, when he began studying clarinet and piano in his hometown of Kaunas, Lithuania. His exceptional talent earned him a place at the prestigious conservatoire in Kaunas at just 15. During this time, he gained recognition in international competitions, securing top prizes in Lithuania, Austria, and Ukraine. In 2014, his outstanding artistic achievements were honoured with a prestigious award from the President of the Republic of Lithuania.

In 2015, Matas moved to Scotland to further his studies at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS), where he trained under Yann Ghiro and John Cushing. His time at RCS was marked by numerous high-profile performances, including his solo debut with the RCS Wind Orchestra and collaborations with world-class ensembles such as the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, and the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra.

Building on his success, Matas continued his studies at RCS, earning a Master of Music in Performance in 2021. During this time, he refined his artistry under the guidance of internationally renowned clarinettists Maximiliano Martín and Nicolas Baldeyrou.

Currently, Matas is a touring artist with the Silver Keys Clarinet Quartet, performing at major venues across the United Kingdom. He is also a member of the internationally acclaimed Baltic Sea Philharmonic Orchestra, collaborating with distinguished musicians from across Europe. In addition to his performance career, Matas is a dedicated music educator based in Glasgow, specialising in clarinet and piano instruction. He teaches at several established music institutions, nurturing the next generation of musicians with his expertise, passion, and commitment to musical excellence.