My Information

Teacher of Cello, Singing and Piano. I also teach theory and both A level and GCSE music.

Availability: By arrangement, but I teach every day.

Willing to travel: Home Only

Tutoring Experience:

I have been teaching for over 30 years as both a Head of Music and as a Head Teacher.

• UCLA (2002)- Philosophy PhD from the UCLA. (Grade: Distinction)


• Victoria College, London (1992)- Music performance Fellowship Single Honours from the Victoria College, London. (Grade: Distinction)


• Bath Spa University (1982)- Music BA Single Honours from the Bath Spa University. (Grade: 2:2)


• Oxford University (1975)- Education CertEd QTS from the Oxford University. (Grade: Pass)

Name of the person who provided this testimonial: Catherine
Dr Cliffe has been teaching Piano to my son, Howard, for a few years now. He has made excellent progress through the grades. Howard was also taught Music Theory up to Grade 5 by Dr Cliffe as this was something that he needed to achieve. Howard has a number of specific learning needs but has always found Dr Cliffe to be patient and understanding, giving consideration to his individual needs. Lessons are always enjoyable and at a pace to suit. Howard is studying Music at 6th Form and we feel fortunate to have a Piano teacher who is also supportive and skilled at explaining topics which other teachers don’t seem able to explain so well. Catherine Weyman

Name of the person who provided this testimonial: Abby
Dear Dr Benedict, Thank you so much for helping me regain confidence in playing the piano and helping me to enjoy it again. You have been the best piano teacher I have ever had and I always looked forward to the lessons. I never dreamt I could acheive a merit in grade 6 let alone a high merit and the same at grade 7 so soon afterwards. Thank you for helping me acheive this and also for helping me to overcome my nerves by teaching me the "wine gum" trick! I am really sad that this was my last lesson but I will continue at Bristol University and hopefully complete my grade 8. Thank you again so much! Abby Wells (Brooke Weston Academy)

Name of the person who provided this testimonial: Laura
If I said you reminded me of Mary Poppins, I think you might take offence! I am genuine in my view that as a teacher of music you are 'practically perfect in every way' and as an individual you are an all round 'good egg'. I was horribly nervous at the thought of starting cello lessons again. Having had my confidence knocked by several teachers in the past, one telling me not to even bother trying to play the cello, I was horribly worried about contacting you. From the outset you were nothing more than brilliant in restoring my confidence and getting me to a place I never thought possible. I have never felt rushed, pushed or deflated by you, I have always felt inspired even when I've found bits hard. I am pedalling along towards an exam now and feeling good about it, something I have never felt in the past. You seem always ready to answer queries and offer advice not just in but outside of my lessons too. As a mother whose children are learning to play brass, I wish they could find a teacher as committed to them as you are to your students, (maybe I should make them take up piano/cello instead !!!) Best regards Laura (apparently a 'mature' student!!!)