Alistair is an experienced brass teacher and conductor who believes music learning should be enjoyable, inspiring, and tailored to each student’s needs.

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He holds a BMus (Hons) degree from the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM), where he studied tenor and bass trombone, including a year at the Folkwang University of the Arts in Essen with Professor Christopher Houlding. In 2025, Alistair completed a Master’s in Education at the RNCM, specialising in Community and Youth Ensembles.

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Alistair has over ten years teaching experince, working with organisations such as Sistema Scotland, Trafford Music Service, Loretto School and Glenalmond College.

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Brass & Conducting Lessons

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Alistair teaches all brass instruments to students of every age and stage. His pupils have consistently achieved a 100% pass rate in examinations — but more importantly, they develop confidence, enjoyment, and a lifelong connection with music.

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Alongside instrumental teaching, Alistair has a particular passion for conducting. He offers lessons and guidance for students, teachers, and ensemble leaders, with expertise in working with youth and community groups. Whether you are preparing to conduct your first ensemble, want to refine your technique, or are looking for new rehearsal strategies, Alistair provides practical, supportive, and inspiring tuition.

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He also teaches music theory, helping students build the knowledge and confidence needed to support both their playing and conducting.

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Conducting Courses

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Alongside individual lessons, Alistair also runs weekend conducting courses designed for teachers, students, and ensemble leaders who want to develop their skills in a supportive and practical setting.

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These courses cover baton technique, rehearsal strategies, score preparation, and effective communication with ensembles — with plenty of hands-on opportunities to conduct and receive personalised feedback.

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Whether you are preparing to conduct your first group, looking to refine your technique, or seeking fresh inspiration for your rehearsals, these courses provide an enjoyable and engaging way to grow as a conductor.

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👉 To find out more about upcoming courses, check out the Conducting Courses tab.

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CPD for Teachers

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Alistair also offers continuing professional development (CPD) for teachers and music services. He can deliver training days and events focused on conducting technique, rehearsal approaches, and strategies for engaging young musicians. These sessions are designed to support teachers in building confidence, developing new skills, and finding fresh ideas to take back to their ensembles.

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Workshops for Ensembles

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Alistair is available to lead ensemble workshops for schools, community groups, and youth ensembles. These sessions are tailored to the needs of each group, helping ensembles work on technique, ensemble skills, and performance preparation, while keeping rehearsals fun and motivating.

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Teaching Approach

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Alistair creates a positive, goal-driven learning environment, adapting his teaching to suit each individual. Whether you are:

• Beginning an instrument for the first time,

• Preparing for an exam or audition,

• Brushing up your skills before a performance, or

• Returning to music after time away,

Alistair will help you achieve your goals with clarity, encouragement, and enjoyment.

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Lesson Locations

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Lessons can take place at Alistair’s music studio in Stenhousemuir, Falkirk, in your own home, or online via Teams or Zoom.

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Get in Touch

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If you’d like to find out more or arrange a lesson, please use the contact form below — Alistair would be delighted to hear from you.