Meet Fredrick Pritchard...

Fredrick Pritchard, ARCT, A Mus., LRSM, is the Director of The Piano Studio, located in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Following the vital inspiration and guidance of private lessons with Barbara Linton, he studied for his University of Toronto Piano Performer's and Teacher's Diplomas under RCM piano teachers Elizabeth Clegg and Earle Moss, with Piano Master Classes by Arthur Rubinstein and Karl Ulrich Schnabel.

Mr. Pritchard is a highly experienced piano teacher, performer, and composer. His wide performing experience includes everything from the classical concert stage to the contemporary music of nightclubs. He is also well-known for his work as a Music Festival Adjudicator (Piano and Vocal), Conservatory Examiner (Piano) and Lecturer (Piano Performance and Pedagogy). His piano compositions are heard in Music Festivals, Conservatory Exams, and Universities.

Mr. Pritchard's enthusiasm for music is infectious...with every lesson, he loves to share the ENJOYMENT and MEANING of music with his students, and to provide them with all the skills necessary for a lifetime of quality music making. Mr. Pritchard has more than three decades of experience teaching privately as well as in the Secondary Schools of Peterborough County, at Lakefield College School, and as Senior Piano Instructor of the former Peter Robinson School of Music, Trent University.

For four consecutive years (2007-2010) Fredrick Pritchard served as Guest Piano Instructor at the Leahy Music Camp, hosted by LEAHY and world-renowned fiddler, Natalie MacMaster. The camp attracts talented musicians from California to Nova Scotia to Belgium.

Mr. Pritchard has guided the development of countless performers, composers, teachers and hobbyists.

Meet some past and present students of The Piano Studio...

ERIN LEAHY

"I've been a longtime student of Mr. Pritchard, and still take lessons from him. I think it's rare to find a teacher who's so passionate about teaching, and yet so accomplished as a performer and composer. It's a real gift to all of our community to have him." -Erin Leahy

Erin Leahy is the brilliant and energetic pianist of "Leahy". Leahy has earned world fame, with 3 Juno Awards, and an Academy Award. They regularly tour North America and Europe, and have produced 5 CD's, selling over a half-million copies. Erin has worked extensively with such artists as Natalie MacMaster, Shania Twain and Anne Murray. Erin Leahy is also an accomplished composer, singer, step-dancer, and multi-instrumentalist.

To learn more, check Leahy's website or their page at Wikipedia

JONAH CRISTALL-CLARKE, B.Mus. (University of Toronto)

"Fredrick Pritchard is a gifted pianist and performer, an innovative composer, and an inspiring educator...a musical scientist whose experiments push the scope of musical thought, challenging the limits of what music can achieve." -Jonah Cristall-Clarke

Jonah Cristall-Clarke...a jazz pianist/arranger of exceptional maturity, inventiveness and subtlety. Well-known for performances at Roy Thomson Hall (Toronto), The Ottawa International Jazz Festival, TheToronto Jazz Festival, and his national radio broadcasts, Jonah has been teaching piano at Humber College. He is founder, arranger and pianist of the jazz ensemble, Nonet, recently releasing its first CD. After several years of performing and teaching in London, England, Jonah has returned to Canada, seeking to further his education.



GREG WELLS

"Fredrick Pritchard, beyond being an exceptional musician himself, is a very inspiring and insightful teacher. In my books, there's no one better." -Greg Wells

Greg Wells is a Los Angeles music producer, composer and multi-instrumentalist. Working with such artists as Ozzy Osbourne, Celine Dion, Carole King, Aerosmith, Elton John, The Deftones, k.d. lang, Mika, Otep, Jesse McCartney, and numerous other noteworthy musicians, he's written songs appearing on CD's with sales topping 50 million units. Greg Wells works from his own music production company, Rocket Carousel Studio, L.A.

To learn more, check Greg Wells' website or his page at Wikipedia .

JOSH COOK, B.F.A. (York)

Fredrick Pritchard creates a comfortable and individual lesson for each of his students. It works, and shapes to the needs of developing musicians. Making music fun? He has NAILED it! His unique style of composition is a constant inspiration." -Josh Cook

Josh Cook's utmost passion is the piano. Josh excels in Rock, and is an accomplished pianist, keyboardist, lead vocalist and composer. His style is direct and intense, marked by unique rhythms and harmonies. He released his first CD while still in high school. His newly-released CD, with the band "Cool Man Cool" has a highly magnetic appeal. Jonah has now completed his Bachelor's degree in Jazz Piano at York University, and is expanding his career as performer, composer and teacher.

To learn more, check the band's website, and hear how Josh Cooks!

DAVID SAWICKI, ARCT, RMT

"Fredrick Pritchard is a very fine musician, and shows tremendous genius in his compositions. His connection with his pupils and the public demonstrates his poise and patience. Mr. Pritchard's positive and mature approach to music, reveals his great commitment to the musical development of students of all ages." -David Sawicki

David Sawicki is a gifted Canadian pianist, singer, and organist. As a teacher, based in the Oshawa area, Mr. Sawicki has enjoyed great success, due not only to his sensitive musicianship, but also to his ability to relate to his pupils with compassion and insight. Mr. Sawicki continues to expand his repertoire, and enjoys performing.

To learn more, check David's website!

HELEN PETTIT, ARCT (Deceased, October 5, 2007)

"Fredrick Pritchard...musician and piano teacher extraordinaire. Already an established piano teacher, wanting to further my studies, I was directed to Fredrick Pritchard. The lessons were challenging, but interesting and fun. Mr. Pritchard has a very large repertoire of advanced works, all played by memory. The way he makes the piano sing is phenomenal. I thank God for the day I began studies with him." -Helen Pettit

Helen Pettit was a piano teacher, arranger, church musician, and competent solo performer. During her 25 years of study with us, when Mrs. Pettit made the weekly trek from Bancroft for her lessons, she was consistently a dedicated and determined student. I watched her technique expand to concert levels, and her interpretative skills blossom. Mrs. Pettit continued to teach, and sustained a diverse concert repertoire.

CARSON MACKIE

"Never have I felt so inspired to practise the piano! Rick Pritchard's approach creates a relaxed atmosphere, with a focus on the individuality of each student. Every lesson brings so many new tips, helping me to develop new skills. I especially enjoy playing Rick Pritchard's own compositions, with their refreshing harmonies and expressive melodic lines. The highlight of each visit is our two-piano improvisation...an experience simply beyond description." -Carson Mackie

Carson Mackie is a pianist of extremely rare talent. He comes to every lesson with the greatest of enthusiasm, eager to learn all he can. A perfectionist, Carson is never satisfied with his performance of any composition until every note speaks and sings, exactly as he conceives it. His sensitivity allows him to adapt to virtually any style or musical idiom, but he particularly excels at expressive and lyrical works.
Carson is preparing for a career in Music Therapy. We wish him every success!

SARAH BERTHELOT

"I really like piano because I find it easy to play. I am learning songs that are fun! I enjoy making up my own songs, and using the keyboard for a lot of different musical effects.
"I like to read adventure books. School is fun. My favourite subjects are gym and math. I look forward to learning more about the relation between math and music. I am on a baseball team and a badminton team. I am also on a bowling league. I love being active. I like playing the piano because it is fun and easy!" -Sarah Berthelot

Sarah is a very bright young student, exuding strong self-confidence and independence of thought. Her disposition is quiet, reserved, and adult-like. Sarah approaches the study of music with objectivity, every lesson being throughly prepared. Her rate of progress thus greatly exceeds the norm. Sarah balances her artistic endeavours with a wide variety of interests and activities.

SARAH CASSIDY

I'm progressing much faster with Rick Pritchard's style of teaching than with any previous teacher. He makes learning easy and fun! It's so nice to learn from a teacher who plays superbly, and shows you how to play, not just what to do. He clearly explains the underlying principles, as they would apply to any repertoire, developing the musical independence of the student. Rick Pritchard is a pleasure to be around, and I look forward to my lesson every week. The lesson time just flies by! I would recommend Rick Pritchard to anyone, of any age. -Sarah Cassidy

Sarah Cassidy is a joy to teach! Her disposition is always pleasant and cordial, and she is always eager to learn new pianistic skills. Her playing is unusually sensitive and expressive. Sarah seeks to understand and express the composer's true intentions, "reading between the lines" to reach the composer's deepest thoughts and feelings. Her approach to the piano is gentle, warm and of most beautiful tone.

CHARLES ARMSTRONG

I've studied with Mr. Pritchard for many years, and have always enjoyed my lessons with him. His approach is very creative, and always inspiring. I was so happy when he introduced me to improvisation, and especially enjoy our two-piano improvisations. The piano has since become a very important part of my life. I value everything I've learned (and am still learning) from Mr. Pritchard. Someday I hope to own a grand piano like Mr. Pritchard's! -Charles Armstrong

Charles is particularly gifted in the art of improvisation, and has an unusally fine musical ear. His playing reflects his quiet and pensive nature. Through his harmonic exploration and experimentation, Charles has developed a very personal and appealing musical style. Always polite, courteous and of pleasant disposition, Charles is a pleasure to teach. We wish him every success as he begins his college studies in economics. Charles also enjoys travel!

ALUMNI (Alphabetically)

JODI ALLEN
While studying with us, Jodi first achieved a remarkable level in classical piano performance. She continued her piano studies at Wilfred Laurier University, returning to The Piano Studio for summer study until earning her Bachelor of Music degree. Further studies included Music Therapy and Physiotherapy. Jodi is now a Physiotherapist, incorporating Music Therapy in her profession.

JENNIFER AYLSWORTH
Jennifer completed her Performer's ARCT (Practical) with us, then attended University of Western Ontario , earning her Bachelor of Music degree (majoring in Piano and Organ). She is now a Cathedral organist in London, Ontario, a composer and arranger of church music, and a very creative high school music teacher.

ALLISON AYLSWORTH
After senior piano studies with us, Allison earned a Bachelor of Music degree at University of Western Ontario, majoring in Music Education. She is now a successful high school music teacher.

EDITH GARNER-AYLSWORTH
Edith was already an established piano and voice teacher in Madoc, Ontario, when she began lessons with us. For 29 years, she drove the considerably lengthy journey from Madoc to Peterborough weekly (even through blizzards!) for her classical piano lessons and vocal coaching with us. She also served many years as a church organist. Her lessons continued until, as an octogenarian, her failing eyesight made further study impossible. She still enjoys improvising!

DONNA BENNETT
After her debut with the The Canadian Opera Company, Donna established a career as an internationally renowned Soprano, excelling in Opera and Oratorio. Donna sang in a church choir which I directed, and (little known to the world) she was quite a good pianist, during her years of study at The Piano Studio. Visit Donna's website! Also enjoy her extensive discography!

BRIAN BROWNE
Brian began piano lessons as a teenager, but quickly became one of North America's leading jazz pianists. After studying with Oscar Peterson, and recording with RCA and Columbia, Brian came to The Piano Studio to study classics. He was soon performing Chopin Scherzos! His prominent career continues to expand. Learn more about Brian, and enjoy his highly diverse discography!

BRUCE BURBIDGE
After sitting his Piano Performer's ARCT exam, Bruce studied in England, and held the prestigious post of Organ Scholar at Christ College, Cambridge. A piano and organ tour of Europe was to follow, then studies in Theology. Bruce is now a Roman Catholic priest in Rome, and Professor of Philosophy at the Venerabile Collegio Inglise, Rome. He continues to perform, both in Great Britain and The Continent.

DARLENE CARR
Darlene came to me as an adult student with RCM Grade 8 Piano. Darlene's sensible (yet sensitive) approach to music was clear. She passed her Grade 9 with a 90%, and progressed quickly through Grade 10 and the Teacher's ARCT, with all theory co-requisites. She then began a private teaching practice, noted for her Group Theory Lessons. Darlene has served many years as pianist at the Salvation Army Temple, as President of the Peterborough Kiwanis Music Festival, and an Executive Member of the Kawartha Independent Music Teachers' Association.

JOSH COOK (See picture above.)

JACKIE CRAWFORD
Piano teacher, Port Perry and Oshawa. Jackie came to The Piano Studio for lessons at the RCM Grade 3 level. Eventually, Jackie could make child's play of the most technically demanding piano repertoire. She then entered the Bachelor of Music program at U. of T. Jackie is known for her performances with various bands, accompaniments in music festivals and RCM exams, and judging music competitions. She is also an experienced church organist in the Oshawa, Ontario area, now preparing her Grade 10 RCM piano exam. Jackie teaches both privately, and by class, now being qualified to teach the first level of Music for Young Children. Visit Jackie at her website.

JONAH CRISTALL-CLARKE (See picture above.)

NANCY ELMHIRST
After graduating from The Piano Studio, Nancy studied piano with Jean Paul Bracey at University of Western Ontario, where she achieved her Bachelor of Music degree. She now teaches school music in Northumberland County, and continues her piano performances.

CHRISTIAN FRANSKY
Christian travelled from Bancroft for his weekly lessons at The Piano Studio. His inherent musicality culminated in a mastery of both classical and modern idioms. He continued his studies at Queen's University, leading to a Bachelor of Music degree. Christian taught music at the Mississauga Christian School. He continues piano performances in many genres. He is also a noteworthy actor, having played leading roles in Toronto-based productions.

SANDRA FREYMOND
During her high school years, Sandra travelled from Bancroft to Peterborough each week for her lessons at The Piano Studio. After university, she returned to us, to complete her Performer's ARCT. Sandra has conducted an energetic schedule of piano teaching, and served as pianist at the Pentecostal Church, Bancroft.

ERIN LEAHY (See picture above.)

DONALD MCBRIDE
Donald's love of music, and his highly-spirited interpretations mark him as a true artist. After achieving his Performer's ARCT, (Practical) he entered the Bachelor of Music degree program at University of Toronto. Donald taught piano in Huntsville, Gravenhurst and Campbellford. He has also been a successful church organist. Despite a change of careers, the piano continues to play a major role in his life.

NANCY MCILVEEN
Nancy just loves to play...everything from Bach Fugues to Bumble Boogie! After her studies at The Piano Studio, Nancy's musical energy took her to Queen's University, where she achieved a Bachelor of Music degree. She was soon hired as a Music Consultant by CBC.

HELEN PETTIT (See picture above)

DEBRA RICHARDSON-EDGE
After studies at The Piano Studio, Debra entered the Bachelor of Music Program at University of Toronto. With a Performer's ARCT, she conducts a noteworthy teaching practice in Havelock, Ontario. Debra served for many years on the Executive of the Kawartha Independent Piano Teachers' Association (founded by Fredrick Pritchard).

DAVID SAWICKI (See picture above)

BLAINE SHARPE
A pianist and vocalist of rare sensitivity and inherent musicianship, Blaine specialized in the works of Frederic Chopin at The Piano Studio, conquering some of the composer's most challenging works. He continued piano studies at University of Toronto, with Clifford Poole, and his vocal works led to engagements with the Canadian Opera Company. Now a high school music teacher, Blaine sustains wide recognition as a performer.

MARTIN STEWART
It is not always the case that the most talented of music students choose musical careers. Martin is a classical pianist of utmost sensitivity, mature musical insight, and unusual technical mastery. He is also a gifted composer. Although he is now a Medical Doctor, his love and mastery of the piano are destined to be life-long priorities.

KIRK SZAFRANSKI
Kirk surprised me! After passing his RCM Grade 8, he attempted ARCT repertoire, with very successful results. Although he is a "born scientist" of incredible intelligence, music has played a major role in his life...in terms of concert repertoire, improvisation, and composition. We know that many great scientists have also been great musicians, such as Einstein. Welcome aboard, Kirk!

CATHY VINK
A remarkable lady! Driving weekly from Norwood to Peterborough, during her final year at The Piano Studio, and during her ninth month of pregnancy, with three pre-schoolers at home, Cathy completed her Teacher's ARCT (Practical), and all co-requisite Theory subjects. Cathy established a private teaching practice in Norwood, Ontario, and became Organist at Cephas Christian Reform Church.

GREG WELLS (See picture above)

MARG WESTFALL
When Marg first came to me, she was a well-established night-club entertainer (piano and singing), known from Toronto to Las Vegas. She frequently appeared at the Imperial Room of the Royal York Hotel. I was impressed by her 4-octave vocal range! We worked on her piano stylings, some classical repertoire, and harmonic theories. Marg soon began a private teaching practice, and expanded her skills as an entertainer.

CHARLES WILKINS
After his years in the Bachelor of Music program at University of Western Ontario, Charles returned to The Piano Studio for advanced piano studies. A diligent and talented musician, Chuck opened his own private piano studio in Campbellford. He is also a church organist, and active as a pianist in several professional bands.

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