Fellow of the Incorporated Society of Musicians
25 years of inspiring students from age 4 to adult. Classical, jazz, improvisation, and ABRSM exams — taught live via video call or through Ruth's unique video exchange format, from anywhere in the world.
ruthpheasantpianolessons.com · Burnham on Crouch, Essex
The highest honour in UK music teaching
The FISM designation is awarded to musicians and educators who have demonstrated sustained excellence across their career. It is the most prestigious professional credential a music teacher can hold in the United Kingdom.
Why credentials matter
Anyone can call themselves a piano teacher. Ruth's professional standing means you can verify her credentials independently and that her teaching meets the highest standards set by the UK's music profession.
How lessons work
Whether you prefer real-time video calls or the flexibility of asynchronous learning, Ruth has a format that works for your life and timezone.
Real-time · Interactive
One-to-one via Zoom, FaceTime, or Teams. Real-time feedback and demonstrations — ideal for children and beginners who thrive on immediate interaction.
Flexible · Worldwide
Ruth's unique format. Film yourself playing, send it to Ruth, and receive detailed written and video feedback — on your schedule, in any timezone.
Best of both
Combine live video calls with video exchange. Real-time connection combined with the depth and flexibility of asynchronous feedback — perfect for exam preparation.
Repertoire & specialisms
From a child's first note to a diploma candidate's final recital — and every style in between. Ruth's breadth is unusually wide for a classical-trained teacher.
All periods from Baroque to contemporary. Deep musicological understanding behind every piece.
Grades 1–8 and diplomas. Outstanding results record including multiple distinctions.
Authentic jazz feel from a teacher who performed in Dixieland bands from her teens.
Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian and beyond — Ruth's own recordings demonstrate this rare specialism.
All ABRSM grades. Integrated into lessons or standalone tuition. Theory that genuinely makes sense.
Creative music-making and original composition encouraged from early on.
Patient and encouraging with very young learners. Multiple ABRSM distinctions from early starters.
Playing for pleasure, no exams required. No one is too old to begin or return to the piano.
Real students, real results
I just wanted to let you know that I am really enjoying my piano lessons with you. I really like your style of teaching. You are always so encouraging, as well as giving great ideas and techniques. I also really like doing the lessons via FaceTime — it really suits me being able to do it from home.
Ruth has been teaching my 8 year old daughter on Zoom since September 2020. It has been an absolute pleasure to see her enjoy her lessons and progress to obtain a distinction in her Initial ABRSM. Ruth is a calm, patient and dedicated teacher and I would highly recommend her.
I just wanted to say thank you for being in Eli and Eva's lives. Your teaching style is just wonderful and is having a hugely positive effect on both kids — not just for the process of learning the piano — but having an adult tell you you're doing a good job and to be so gentle even with constructive feedback is great for their self esteem.
This has been a really fun and awesome exchange for me. I am always so excited and inspired getting your words of wisdom.
The calmest, kindest and most patient teacher I have ever known. My daughter is now at Grade 4, and my son Grade 2. I would recommend Ruth to anyone looking for a piano teacher.
First enquiry is free. No obligation. Ruth replies personally to every message.