melissajwhitehead@gmail.comI began giving private violin and fiddle lessons in Newcastle during 2011 and I haven't stopped since! I teach mainly individual lessons to students as young as 7 all the way through to retired adults. A large number of my students start with me as complete beginners but I also teach intermediate and advanced students.Most of my students choose to focus on classical violin or folk fiddle but many want to learn the instrument itself and therefore play a… Show more melissajwhitehead@gmail.comI began giving private violin and fiddle lessons in Newcastle during 2011 and I haven't stopped since! I teach mainly individual lessons to students as young as 7 all the way through to retired adults. A large number of my students start with me as complete beginners but I also teach intermediate and advanced students.Most of my students choose to focus on classical violin or folk fiddle but many want to learn the instrument itself and therefore play a variety of musical styles which can be incredibly beneficial. I also think it's really important to make lessons relevant to the student's interests so I always try to include music they love and enjoy wherever possible alongside a range of tried and trusted violin tutor books.The option of taking grade exams is open to all students but I completely understand that some prefer not to or would like to wait a few years first. I currently enter students for both ABRSM and Trinity College violin, fiddle and music theory exams. I am also a fully trained Music Medal teacher-assessor for ABRSM Music Medals aimed at younger students.-----All beginners are offered 30 minute lessons (£13.00) and for more advanced students there is the possibility of a 1 hour lesson (£26.00) or 45 minute lessons (£19.50). Group lessons and one off workshops are also available (price TBC).-----I am a full member of the Musician's Union, hold an enhanced DBS certificate and have a Level 1 qualification in safeguarding young people. Show less

Weekly term time adult fiddle classes in technique and style.http://northeastfiddleschool.org.uk

We can offer the perfect package for your day, performing acoustically during your ceremony or meal before playing a ceilidh in the evening. There is also the option of a post ceilidh disco. We are able to arrange specific pieces of music for your ceremony or even for your first dance and we will provide you with a recording of this as a special memento of your day.We are also available as a ceilidh band (with the addition of percussion and caller) for parties and events.

A duo focussing primarily on traditional Scottish music, as well as modern and self penned tunes, Melissa and Andy are two exciting young instrumentalists from the Highlands of Scotland. Both recent graduates of Newcastle University’s Folk & Traditional Music degree course, Melissa is a talented fiddle player, equally adept at storming sets of reels and jigs as she is at emotional, haunting slow airs, while Andy is a virtuosic guitarist, making a name for himself touring with a number of well… Show more A duo focussing primarily on traditional Scottish music, as well as modern and self penned tunes, Melissa and Andy are two exciting young instrumentalists from the Highlands of Scotland. Both recent graduates of Newcastle University’s Folk & Traditional Music degree course, Melissa is a talented fiddle player, equally adept at storming sets of reels and jigs as she is at emotional, haunting slow airs, while Andy is a virtuosic guitarist, making a name for himself touring with a number of well established acts including the Chris Newman Trio, Tom McConville and the Alistair Anderson band. Together they bring their material alive with dynamic arrangements, exchanging melody and accompaniment, with an exciting live spontaneity."Astonishing feel and dexterity..." - Caroline Paterson, Tolbooth StirlingMelissa and Andy also have extensive experience of playing background music in restaurants, private functions, weddings etc. providing a pleasant atmosphere without being obtrusive. Show less

The Bellingham Middle School Ceilidh Band was a mixed instrument and ability group consisting of school pupils aged 7 to 10.

Providing help for the fiddle section of the Tarset Ceilidh Band in Northumberland. This is a mixed age and ability group.