‘Perhaps it is music that will save the world’ – Pablo Casals

Welcome!

Based at her home studio in Ipswich, Rachel Raval is a friendly and experienced teacher - with all ages and stages.

She is currently accepting applications from new beginners or transfer students, from age 4 upwards.

Rachel uses a Suzuki core approach and passionately believes that with the right kind of training and support at home, any child can learn to play a musical instrument - and to a high standard. Pupils can begin learning at any age - but an early start is particularly recommended.

Programme Overview

Rachel offers an all-inclusive tuition, as follows:

• Individual lessons - these take place weekly at an assigned time, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at Rachel’s home studio.
• Lesson length - lessons are 30 mins, 45 mins, or 60 mins long, according to age and level - and by arrangement with the teacher.
• Group Sessions for all young pupils are currently held once a month on a Saturday afternoon, at Ipswich Quaker Meeting House.
• Group sessions for adult pupils are held at Rachel's home studio, as schedules allow.
• Everyone also participates in an end-of-term Solos Concert and Playtogether that includes adult learners, supporting parent/caregiver players, and visiting pupils.
• All group events are an integral part of our programme, and all pupils attend.
• Parent/Caregiver involvement in individual lessons, groups and home practice is essential and required for all young pupils, until they are at least aged 12 or above.

Workshops and Summer Schools

Pupils have the opportunity, and indeed are encouraged to attend national and international workshops and summer schools, for example those run by the British Suzuki Music Association, for which membership is necessary - and the European Suzuki Association.

Cellofest Annual Residential Workshop

Here in Suffolk, we are fortunate to have Cellofest on our doorstep - held every August at the Royal Hospital School Holbrook. Here, students from 0-18 years old, their parents/caregivers, staff and teachers from 21 countries meet for several days of enriching music-making and networking with friends.

Ipswich Suzuki Group

We are also part of Ipswich Suzuki Group, and meet now and again to play and perform with other instrumentalists - and occasionally also in the wider East Anglian Suzuki community.

Suffolk Youth Music

Once in secondary school or when technique is solidly established, pupils are encouraged to join Suffolk Youth Music ensembles, where they can enjoy participating in the wider community.

Grade Exams

Where appropriate and only if they wish, pupils are entered for selected MTB, Trinity or ABRSM grade exams - and achieve excellent results.

For more information:

Please email me to arrange a no-obligation 'Virtual Coffee’, when I will be happy to answer any questions you may have about cello lessons for you or your child.

I can't wait to meet you!