Michael Fields
I try to approach every student, whether singer or accompanist, in a way that resonates with where they are in their own development, and where they want to go. I hope to help strengthen their foundations and clarify their goals, in order to facilitate their continued personal and musical growth.
What will students gain if they come on one of your courses?Wisdom, culture, fun, friendship, support. An appreciation of the great subtlety of our art, and the importance of awareness, attention to detail and regular focused practice.
Are there any particular techniques/processes you use in your teaching?Awareness, listening, feeling, thinking, exploring.
What inspires your own work?Music.
Where did you gain your training/experience?I played folk, rock and jazz in my teens in California in the 60s, then went on to study classical guitar, piano and lute at the Melba Conservatorium in Melbourne, Australia, then at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, working with some of the great performers and teachers of my instruments. I have AGSM, LRAM diplomas, and am an Associate of the London Film School in composition for film. I have worked with singers for 40 years, and attended masterclasses with some the greatest vocal tutors and voice trainers.
What teaching experience have you had?40 years of one-to-one guitar and lute teaching, 35 years of vocal and instrumental ensemble coaching, masterclass teaching and course directing worldwide
Have you written any books/had articles published?Many CDs and DVDs published. Composed several large scale music works, including a setting of the Mass and a Musical.
Do you belong to any professional groups/societites?No. I am a lone wolf who creates, rather than joins.