As a midwife and lactation consultant, I love helping to bring something beautiful to birth and enable real enjoyment between mother and baby. I view the accompanist's role in a similar way! 

I have many years of experience in accompanying choral groups, and have also sung in the alto section of a number of choirs. I started accompanying in my teens in the 1960s, while I was having piano lessons to Grade 8, and discovered a talent for both helping the singers and anticipating the conductor's wishes.  After returning from Pakistan in 1990, I was the accompanist for Streatham Choral Society for 10 years, performing the Beethoven Choral Fantasia twice. Since 2001, when I moved to Aldershot, I have supported Farnham Amateur Operatic Society; Fleet & District Choral Society; Surrey Heath Choral Society; Savoy Singers; and other ad hoc groups. 

I am available to accompany individual musicians and groups for

• music examinations (Associated Board, GCSE, A level, and others) in Guildford, Farnham, Fleet, Camberley and Woking
• competitions and festivals (Farnham Competitive Music Festival; Farnborough & Aldershot, Woking, and Godalming Music Festivals) 
• recitals
• auditions
• regular or ad hoc choral rehearsals

My fees are largely based on the Associated Board's set fees, and include a rehearsal at my home or at the performer's home. They may be adjusted up or down to take into account the length and complexity of pieces. Travel to homes and/or examination sites is charged at 40p/mile, plus any parking fees, and will be shared if accompanying multiple entrants. (Travel charges may not be levied for some music festivals.)

Concessions may be made for

• single pieces
• family groups
• discretionary needs

Enhanced fees may be requested for

• very complex accompaniments
• adult examinees in paid employment

Examinations (1-2 pieces):

• Grade 1            £12  includes 1 rehearsal of up to 20 mins
• Grades 2-4      £15  includes 1 rehearsal of up to 20 mins
• Grades 5-7      £20  includes 1 rehearsal of up to 30 mins
• Grade 8            £25-30   includes 1 rehearsal of up to 40 mins
• GCSE               £20-25   includes 1 rehearsal of up to 40 mins
• A level               £25-30   includes 1 rehearsal of up to 40 mins
• Diplomas etc: by arrangement
• Extra rehearsals £5-10   

 Competitions and festivals:

• Elementary (Gr 1-3) £10
• Intermediate (Gr 4-5) £15
• Advanced (Gr 6-8) £20-25
• Extra rehearsals £5-10
• Multiple entries - by arrangement
• Prizewinners' concert performance (if already rehearsed) £5-10 - may be waived

Auditions as for examinations

Recitals/concerts for individuals or groups by arrangement

Regular or ad hoc choral rehearsal accompaniment minimum £30 per session of up to 2 hours