Lessons
Private oboe, RCM piano, and RCM theory lessons in Toronto and online. University masterclasses by arrangement.
Beverly teaches the way she plays: technique first, so that expression has something dependable to sit on. On oboe that means building a reliable sound from the ground up — air, embouchure, articulation, and reed. At the piano it means the same attention paid to touch, voicing, and the physical habits that make a passage repeatable.
Every student works from a plan built around where they are and what they are aiming at, whether that is a first solo, an RCM examination, a conservatory audition, or a professional orchestra list. Repertoire is chosen deliberately, and progress is measured against the player rather than only against a syllabus.
What lessons cover
Oboe
Weekly or biweekly, 45 or 60 minutes, working through tone, technique, and repertoire at a pace set by the student.
Piano — RCM
Graded piano through the Royal Conservatory syllabus, from first pieces through exam repertoire, technique, and ear training.
Theory — RCM
Rudiments through the written theory levels, taken alongside an instrument or on its own.
Auditions & examinations
University and conservatory auditions, youth orchestra seats, professional lists, and RCM examinations — including mock auditions behind a screen.
Orchestral excerpts
The standard oboe excerpt list coached from the chair, with attention to the tempo, colour, and intonation a panel is listening for.
Reed making
Gouging, shaping, tying, and scraping — the skill that most often decides whether a young oboist keeps improving.
Single consultations
A one-off session for players between teachers, preparing a specific work, or wanting a second opinion on their setup.
Masterclasses & sectionals
For schools, youth orchestras, and university studios, arranged around the concert calendar.
Practicalities
- Subjects
- Oboe, piano (RCM), and theory (RCM)
- Levels
- Beginner through pre-professional
- Format
- In person in Toronto, or online
- Length
- 45 or 60 minutes
- Rates
- Shared on enquiry, with a sliding scale for students
Enquire
Tell Beverly a bit about the student and she’ll get back to you about times that work.
Also
Booking a performance rather than a lesson? The contact page reaches Beverly directly. Students can also order finished reeds from the same bench.