Our Teachers

Dr. John Goodenough FRCO

Piano and Theory

Originally from Birmingham, John studied music at Huddersfield 1976-79, The Royal College of Music (an M.Mus in composition 1980-81), and Durham University (a PHD in composition 2015).

John is passionate about music. He is a composer and also a performer; organist, pianist and educator.

Between 1990 and 2014 John worked for Gateshead Music Service teaching keyboards and singing, whilst also developing cross-curricular work with other arts disciplines. He taught music across age ranges from nursery through to GCSE and A level. Whilst a student at Durham, John also gained some experience with University teaching achieving an Associate Fellowship (The Higher Education Academy) in 2013.

Over many years, through careful evaluation and an extensive range of musical experience, composition in particular has offered tangible change and development. For example, John collaborated with a local Animator (a Royal College of Art graduate) producing the full soundtrack for an Animated film (The Box, for Amber Films, Newcastle. 1986). During Gateshead Youth Orchestra’s visit to Salzburg and Vienna (in 2006) John had a ‘pastiche’ symphonic orchestral score performed in the huge Votivkirche (Vienna), and whilst at Durham, he had a choral score performed in Cambridge by the choir of Selwyn College.

Current work with The London Symphony Orchestra, as a composer in association, has prompted further substantial change, and through this, fresh energy.

Learn more about the lessons John offers by visiting our "Piano" page

Maria Patereli (MMus)

Piano and Theory

I am a professional teacher of classical piano and music theory, and can teach anyone from absolute beginners to degree-level pianist. I began piano lessons at the age of 6 at the Delfikon Conservatory in Athens, Greece, and in 1997 I gained my degree in Piano Performance. I continued with a two-year postgraduate course, graduating with a diploma in Performance in 1999. As well as studying classical piano, I studied advanced music theory, receiving my diploma in Harmony. In 2000, I completed a master's degree in Performance at Newcastle University, studying with David Murray.

After returning to Athens, I continued my studies in advanced music theory at the National Conservatory of Greece, receiving diplomas in Counterpoint and Fugue. I also worked as a piano and theory teacher at public and private conservatories for 10 years.

In 2013 I returned to Newcastle and since then I have taught piano and theory privately, at Tutoring Clinic education centre and at Crossings Music Community Centre, working with migrants, refugees, asylum seekers and the local community. I have also worked as a pianist at the Apostolic Church in Newcastle, conducted community choirs (Crossings Mixed choir and Crossings Women's choir) and participated in recitals as a soloist and as an accompanist for choirs (Howdon community choir) and instrumental groups (Crossings fiddle and trumpet groups).

Learn more about the lessons Maria offers by visiting our "Piano" page

Alex Cole

Drums

I’ve been passionate about music and drumming since the age of 8 when I first saw the percussion section of a wind band! Since then I've gained over 30 years of playing experience, in bands and orchestras, as well as teaching one-to-one and leading workshops.

I have found that the most exciting aspect of teaching is helping new musicians discover the joy of playing. Drums are a fantastic instrument to learn and offer a real workout for the mind and the body, developing coordination, listening and rhythm skills. Anyone can play the drums, it just take a little practice.

I love sharing my knowledge in a relaxed and supportive way, giving students the chance to learn new skills, grow in confidence, and enjoy the learning process.

For complete beginners, I start with simple sticking patterns, moving towards basic rhythms that can be played along with music. Playing with backing tracks from the very first lesson helps develop a natural sense of rhythm and timing, while also keeping things fun and engaging.

As students progress, I gradually introduce new techniques and studies to build a solid repertoire of drumming skills. I always encourage students to suggest songs they’d like to learn—most pieces can be simplified and arranged so they’re playable within just a few lessons, giving a real sense of achievement early on.

Moving forward, I combine student-chosen repertoire with the Rockschool syllabus, which offers a wide range of graded pieces across major genres and styles. This balance ensures structured progression while keeping lessons personal and enjoyable.

Above all, I believe learning should be fun and rewarding. When you enjoy playing, you’ll practice more—and the more you practice, the better you’ll get.

Lessons can be booked for 30 / 45 / 60 minutes.

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