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Ashburton, Devon

Qualified, friendly piano tuition in Ashburton

Whether you're a child just starting out, a teenager working towards grades, an adult picking up the piano for the first time, or returning after years away — you're welcome here. Tailored tuition from the home of Sarah MacAlpine.

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Sarah MacAlpine at the piano
Lessons

Find the right lesson for you

Whether you prefer to learn on your own, with a partner, or in a small group — there's an option to suit.

1:1

Individual Lessons

Children, Teenagers & Adults

Learn at your own pace with tailored, focused tuition. Perfect for all ages and abilities — from first steps to exam preparation, or simply playing for pleasure.

From £18 per lesson
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2

Paired Lessons

Friends, siblings & parent-child

Interactive, motivating sessions for two. A lovely way to enjoy music together while building confidence and musical skills side by side.

From £13.50 per lesson
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3-5

Small Groups

Children, inc. home educated

Energetic 45-minute sessions where children learn together through a mix of keyboard work, rhythm games and ensemble playing. A sociable, supportive way to learn piano.

£15 per pupil
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Lesson availability

I teach from my home in Ashburton, Devon, and welcome students of all ages from across South Devon — including adults during the daytime.

Weekday daytimes for adults After-school slots Home educated children welcome Ashburton, Devon

Fully qualified and experienced

DipABRSM · DipPTC UK · B.Ed Music

ISM member · DBS checked

What people say
"First Class"

"I've had the benefit of experiencing the incredibly moving impact of Sarah's work as a gifted music teacher. Children grow in confidence under her gentle care and compassionate nurturing of their ability as musicians. It's simply a joy. I am so grateful that our child has spent time with Sarah."

— Parent

Read all reviews

Ready to get started?

I'd love to hear from you. Get in touch for a chat about lessons — no obligation, no pressure.

Contact Sarah
About

About me

Hi, I'm Sarah MacAlpine! I offer private piano lessons from my home in Ashburton for children, teenagers and adults of all levels.

I hold distinctions in two piano teaching diplomas (DipPTC and DipABRSM) and have trained with some of the top concert pianists and educators. Before teaching the piano full time, I was a primary school teacher and music specialist, so I understand how children learn and how to make lessons engaging, structured and fun.

Sarah MacAlpine at the piano

I love helping students enjoy playing and grow in confidence at the piano — whether that's a child playing their first piece, a teenager exploring new genres, or an adult discovering the joy of music for the first time or rediscovering it after years away.

Performances and concerts

Many of my students enjoy performing and find a concert or exam deadline very motivating — but it's never mandatory, and you're always welcome just to come and watch!

Each year I organise a concert for my pupils to perform to family and friends at St Lawrence's Chapel in Ashburton. It's always a lovely, informal celebration of their progress throughout the year, and all pupils receive a certificate for taking part. Prospective pupils are most welcome to come along.

Exams

As they progress, pupils may wish to work towards piano examinations. I prepare students for the ABRSM performance and face-to-face examinations, which take place at St Lawrence's Chapel in Ashburton. Exams are entirely optional — plenty of my students prefer to learn purely for enjoyment.

Get in touch

If you'd like to find out more or have a chat about lessons, please don't hesitate to get in touch. I'm always happy to answer questions.

Contact me
Lesson Info

Lesson Info

At Ashburton Piano Lessons, learning the piano is a journey to be enjoyed, not rushed. Every pupil is supported with care, encouragement and consistency — whether you're 6 or 66.

Lessons are available during the daytime on weekdays and after school, and are booked per 12-week term to provide continuity and steady progress.

Lesson formats and pricing

1:1 Lessons

For adults, children and teenagers of all abilities. A calm, focused space where you can grow at your own pace.

30 minutes£18 per lesson
45 minutes£27 per lesson

Paired Lessons

For friends, siblings or parent and child duos. Interactive sessions that combine personal attention with the warmth of learning together. Per student:

30 minutes£13.50 per lesson
45 minutes£20 per lesson

Small Group Lessons

3-5 children per group, organised by age. 45-minute sessions, booked in 12-week term blocks.

45 minutes£15 per pupil (min. 3 per group)

Find out more about group lessons

Lessons for adults

Whether you're picking up the piano for the very first time or returning after a break, I'll work with you to build the skills to play the music you love. Daytime weekday lessons are ideal if you're retired, semi-retired, work from home, or have flexible hours.

As a beginner, you'll become familiar with the keyboard and pedal before being introduced to reading music: understanding notation, rhythm and musical terms. You'll learn to coordinate your hands and develop essential piano technique. As we work through different repertoire, you'll explore various genres and their historical contexts. You might also wish to try improvisation or playing by ear.

Most importantly, you'll learn practice strategies that you can apply to whatever piece you're working on.

As an intermediate or more advanced player, I can help you explore new repertoire, develop your technique, deepen your understanding of music theory, improve memorisation skills, and develop your ability to analyse and interpret music. I can also help with performance anxiety for those wishing to perform or take exams.

Fortnightly lessons are available for adults who prefer a less intensive schedule. Please get in touch to discuss availability.

Lessons for children

My teaching is based on the principles of Piano Safari, an internationally respected piano method that uses pattern-based learning, listening, movement and creative music-making to build strong musical foundations. This multi-sensory approach helps children develop confidence, musical awareness and a genuine enjoyment of playing.

Lessons incorporate a balance of activities including playing at the piano, rhythm and movement games, listening exercises, improvisation and simple ensemble work. Music reading is introduced through recognising steps, skips and repeated patterns rather than memorising individual notes — an approach that supports early fluency and understanding.

Healthy, relaxed piano technique is taught from the very beginning, and repertoire is drawn from a broad range of musical styles and periods. The full range of the keyboard and pedal are explored from the earliest lessons.

Whether your child is just starting out or working towards grades, lessons are tailored to their individual pace, interests and learning style.

It's important that pupils have access to an acoustic or full-sized digital piano to practise on between lessons. I'm happy to advise you on something suitable if you need guidance.

Lessons for teenagers

Whether you're working towards ABRSM grades, studying music at school, or simply want to learn the pieces you love without the pressure of exams — lessons are tailored to what works for you. I'll help you develop your technique, explore new styles, and build the confidence to play the music that inspires you.

How to book

To enquire about lessons or book a place, please get in touch. I'm always happy to have an initial chat to discuss what would work best for you or your child.

Get in touch
Reviews

What parents and students say

"First Class"

"I've had the benefit of experiencing the incredibly moving impact of Sarah's work as a gifted music teacher. Children grow in confidence under her gentle care and compassionate nurturing of their ability as musicians. It's simply a joy. I am so grateful that our child has spent time with Sarah."
Parent

"Superb Teacher"

"Initially my partner bought me some piano lessons with Sarah as a gift. I was so lucky that he chose Sarah — she is a brilliant teacher and so patient with me. I'm semi-retired and would say I need to be told a number of times before things sink in! I've been having lessons for about 18 months and I'm so pleased with how far I've come. I would recommend Sarah 100%. If you're thinking of learning to play the piano, you won't find a better teacher."
Adult student

"Inspiring and Patient Teacher"

"My son has been having lessons with Sarah for the past three years and I'm truly astounded by his progress. My husband and I don't play, so we've enjoyed learning along the way when he practises at home. His sight reading is really impressive and his confidence has flourished. In his own words: 'Sarah is very kind, encouraging and does not give up. If something isn't working, Sarah will find another way to help until it sinks in instead of skipping onto the next piece of music.'"
Parent of a pupil, age 10

"Wonderful Piano Teacher"

"Sarah is a wonderful piano teacher and I can't recommend her highly enough. She has been teaching my six-year-old for four months and I'm amazed at how much he can play already. She has nurtured his enthusiasm, confidence and curiosity, and he comes home enthusing about the new pieces he's learnt and keen to practise. Sarah is warm, encouraging and structured in her approach, meeting the child where they are and helping them flourish. We feel very lucky to have such a wonderful and experienced teacher."
Parent

"Faultless"

"Sarah is not only a talented musician — her intuitive care and nurturing manner truly brings out the best in her students. She uses a variety of approaches, both to read music and play by ear, and her lessons are varied and enjoyable. She encourages children to take responsibility for their own practice and look after their books. Both of my children have made amazing progress and enjoyed the experience thoroughly. I'm very grateful for her wonderful care and attention."
Parent

"Excellent Piano Teaching in Ashburton"

"My daughter, age 13, has thrived in her music since starting piano lessons with Sarah. Her approach — exploring a wide range of music including improvisation and duets alongside working towards grades — has inspired a real love of the piano. My daughter has just passed her Grade 4 and is working towards Grade 5 and Grade 5 theory, as well as composing her own pieces and songs."
Parent

"Wonderfully Warm and Wise Tuition"

"My daughter has been learning with Sarah for two years and I'm so impressed by the rigorous yet kind and compassionate approach she takes. She expects proper techniques to be followed and patiently helps the child to grow in confidence, creating a sense of pride in their practice. The annual spring concert at the local chapel with a proper grand piano is so special — a real highlight — and Sarah organises it all with such a calm and caring demeanour. Each child is allowed a moment to shine on stage whether they've been playing for a few weeks or several years. A wonderful teacher full of warmth and wisdom."
Parent
"My daughter has been having piano lessons with Sarah for three months now and I am really happy with her progress. I think Sarah has all the skills which a teacher requires — professionalism, responsibility, patience and ability to motivate a student. Sarah found an approach for my daughter, made her interested in playing the piano and helps her gain confidence with every lesson. Our family is so thankful to Sarah for the opportunity to learn a new amazing skill."
Parent

Ready to get started?

I'd love to hear from you. Get in touch for a chat about lessons — no obligation, no pressure.

Contact Sarah
Group Lessons

Group Piano Lessons

Group piano lessons offer a fun and engaging way for children to begin learning the piano alongside others. In a small, supportive group environment, students develop musical skills while also building confidence, listening skills and enjoyment of music.

Lessons are based on the principles of Piano Safari, an internationally respected piano method that uses pattern-based learning, listening, movement and creative music-making to build strong musical foundations.

Group lessons are especially well suited to children who enjoy interactive, game-based learning and who are motivated by learning alongside others.

How children learn

Children learn through a balance of activities including playing at the piano, rhythm games, listening exercises, improvisation and simple ensemble work.

Rhythm and musical pulse

Students develop a strong sense of beat and rhythm through clapping, movement and game-based activities. This helps build the foundation for confident music-making.

Listening skills and musical memory

Many pieces are introduced by ear before notation is added. This supports the development of aural awareness and helps students recognise musical patterns naturally.

Keyboard confidence

Students explore the layout of the piano through practical activities that help them recognise notes and patterns quickly.

Reading music using patterns

Music reading is introduced through recognising steps, skips and repeated patterns rather than memorising individual notes. This approach supports early fluency in music reading.

Healthy playing technique

Students learn relaxed, natural piano movements that promote comfortable and expressive playing.

Creativity and musical expression

Lessons include opportunities for improvisation and simple composition to help develop musical imagination and enjoyment of music.

Playing together

Group lessons include ensemble playing and opportunities to share music within a supportive and encouraging environment.

What a group lesson may include

Each lesson will include a mixture of activities such as:

  • Rhythm and movement games
  • Listening and echo-playing activities
  • Keyboard discovery exercises
  • Short technical skill work
  • Playing pieces at the piano
  • Creative music-making
  • Ensemble or performance opportunities

Is group piano suitable for every child?

Group piano lessons can be a wonderful learning environment for many children. The interactive, movement-based and game-like activities used in lessons based on Piano Safari often suit children who enjoy learning by doing and participating with others.

However, children learn in different ways. While many thrive in a group setting, some may benefit more from individual lessons depending on their learning needs, attention span or the level of support they require.

I aim to maintain a supportive and inclusive learning environment and am happy to discuss a child's individual needs before starting lessons. In some cases small adjustments can help a child participate successfully in a group, while in others, individual lessons may be more appropriate.

If you are unsure whether group lessons would suit your child, please feel free to get in touch.

Pricing and booking

Small Group Lessons

3–5 children per group, organised by age. 45-minute sessions, booked in 12-week term blocks.

45 minutes£15 per pupil (min. 3 per group)

All materials are provided. Families just purchase the tutor book when needed.

Interested in group lessons?

I'd love to hear from you. Get in touch for a chat about whether group piano would suit your child — no obligation, no pressure.

Get in touch
Policies

Lesson Policies

Inclusivity and access

I aim to provide a welcoming and inclusive learning environment for all pupils. Lessons are adapted wherever possible to suit different learning styles, abilities and additional needs. Parents or adult students are encouraged to discuss any specific requirements in advance so that appropriate adjustments can be made. While every effort will be made to support individual needs, I reserve the right to recommend alternative provision if I feel a pupil would be better supported in a different learning environment.

Booking and payment

Lessons are booked as a regular weekly slot in my teaching schedule per 12-week term. Tuition reserves this weekly lesson slot rather than paying for individual attendance. Invoices are sent by email and payment is due before the term begins. If you would prefer to stagger your payments monthly or half-termly, please let me know. Tuition fees are reviewed annually and a full term's notice will be given for any increase.

Missed lessons and cancellations

If a lesson needs to be cancelled or rescheduled, a minimum of 24 hours' notice is required. Lessons cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice will normally be charged in full, as the time has been reserved and it is rarely possible to offer the slot to another pupil at short notice. Where at least 24 hours' notice is given, I will try to offer an alternative lesson time where availability allows, although this cannot be guaranteed. Exceptions may be made for prolonged illness or extenuating circumstances at my discretion.

After-school lesson times

After-school lesson times are limited and in high demand. These lessons are booked as a regular weekly slot and payment secures that time in the teaching schedule. Missed lessons are therefore not normally refundable or transferable, except where sufficient notice has been given and an alternative time is available.

Adult lessons

Adult students sometimes require additional flexibility due to work or travel commitments. Where at least 24 hours' notice is given, I will make every effort to offer an alternative lesson time where availability allows.

Teacher absence

If I need to cancel a lesson due to illness or other unavoidable circumstances, the lesson will be rescheduled or credited. If you end your lessons before using a credit, I will refund you for that lesson.

Lesson times

Lessons begin and end at the scheduled time. If a pupil arrives late, the lesson will still finish at the originally scheduled time.

Ending lessons

If you wish to stop lessons, please give at least two weeks' notice by email so that the lesson time can be offered to another pupil. You will continue to receive any lessons already paid for until the end of that term. Refunds for unused lessons within a paid term will not be issued.

Late payment

Where fees are not paid on time, I reserve the right to pause or end lessons with immediate effect by giving written notice.

Conduct

If I feel unable to continue tuition on account of unreasonable conduct by a pupil or anyone connected with them, the fees for any remaining lessons will not be refundable.

Photos and recordings

Occasionally, I may take photos or short videos during lessons to share with you. I may also select some for use on my website. If you would prefer me not to photograph or record your child for any of these purposes, please let me know.

Acceptance

Payment of the invoice and commencement of lessons is taken as acceptance of these policies.

Contact

Get in touch

I'd love to hear from you. Whether you're an adult thinking about starting lessons, a parent looking into piano for your child, or a teenager wanting to learn — please drop me a message and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.

Contact details

Phone / WhatsApp
07590 673601
Email
[email protected]
Location
Ashburton, Devon

I welcome students from across South Devon. Ashburton is easily accessible from Newton Abbot, Totnes, Buckfastleigh, and the surrounding villages.

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