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TEACHING

Francine is in high demand as a strings teacher in both Cambridgeshire.  She offers expert tuition in violin and viola, as well as foundation level training in cello and piano. She teaches students of all ages from absolute beginner to conservatoire level entry, preparing students for competitions, examinations (AMEB, ABRSM, Trinity), scholarship and orchestral auditions, and for their own general musical enjoyment. Francine  currently teaches in Cambridgeshire.

What is involved in lessons?

Lessons are tailored to the individual wishes and needs of the student, however Francine follows methodological principles which have been honed over years of experience. Through the progression of carefully thought out technical work, exercises, studies and etudes, sight-reading, repertoire and chamber music, the lessons cover crucial elements such as tone production, posture, style, historical and cultural studies, left hand technique, bowing styles, extended techniques, vibrato, musicianship, and note reading. Learning music can be complex and require much dedication, patience and self confidence, however with good teaching progress comes naturally and easily. Francine's style of teaching is gentle yet conscientious and thorough. She will ensure that all areas of playing are addressed with each student and that they are playing at the best of their abilities.  

Teaching experience

Upon the insistence of her mother, a professional musician, Francine began teaching when she was fifteen years old to neighbours and family friends. In 2009 at age 20, she began working as a strings teacher and ensemble director at Penola Catholic College in Melbourne. In 2013 Francine took up teaching positions at St. Augustine's and St. Monica's Colleges (Cairns, Australia) and the Cairns Hinterland Steiner School, in which she grew a basically non-existent music program into a flourishing and vibrant community of talented students. Francine taught the compulsory string lessons at Class 3, designed and produced individual method books for students, organised instrument purchase and loan programs, and provided ongoing support for parents of children in the program. Additionally Francine taught students privately across the school, as well as directing both string ensembles. In 2014 Francine began conducting the Cairns String Orchestra, a community string orchestral program for students aged between 6 and 18. The orchestras performed regularly within the community, competed in competitions, toured regional areas, and offered workshops for the greater string community. In 2017, Francine took positions at Nossal High School, Eltham High School and Genazzano FCJ College in Melbourne. These positions offered further experiences in directing high level senior orchestras, teaching group practical exam and theory classes, as well as teaching high achieving younger children. In 2018 Francine relocated to Cambridge, United Kingdom, where she took a position at the Cambridge Steiner School teaching classroom and instrumental music, where she worked until 2021. She also worked at Dunedin School of Music in London. She currently teaches violin, viola and piano at the Stamford Endowed Schools and maintains a busy private studio in Cambridge. 

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