Oxford graduate and session musician: English/Guitar lessons - English tutor with Robin

Robin taught both of my boys recently - two lessons (Year 5 and Year 3). He provided an interesting and engaging lesson for each of them. Both reported that they had learnt something new and had some concepts explained to them in a way that really helped. Robin provided me with clear feedback on both what the children knew and what areas they should work on.

Robin is an incredible music teacher, a talented guitarist and knowledgeable about music theory. Highly recommended!

Robin knows how to deliver. With great attention to detail and a focused approach, I would recommend Robin as a tutor.

I have known Robin for over twenty years, having both studied English Literature with him at Oxford and played in bands with him in our younger days. Robin has maintained his passion for, and study of, both English and Music in the intervening years, completing an M.A in Shakespeare at Bristol University and touring the world with French performer and composer Yann Tiersen.

Over the years he has taught me both guitar and bass, showing himself to be a patient, relaxed teacher. He balances it well with his wide knowledge and experience, both of which make him an inspiring tutor.

For over two decades now we have discussed literature and poetry, he regularly surprises me with insights and interpretations that breathe new life even into works with which I am very familiar. Crucially, he is sensitive to the words on the page, and resists the temptation to get lost or distracted by the kind of literary theory that is liable to forget what is written down in front of us. He is a voracious reader and has an extraordinarily large range of specialities, from 20th Century Poetry to Milton, from Medieval verse to his profound understanding of Joyce.

In terms of English Language Robin has superb grammar skills and spelling. And much of his work over the years has revolved around copy editing, proof-reading and formatting. Whenever I have long text I need looking at he is first on my list (and first to respond!)

In a practical terms, Robin is diligent, punctual and has a great eye for detail.

Most importantly, in both fields Robin has a love of his subjects, and a special gift for communicating that excitement, wonder and insight in a way that kindles it in others.