Trinity College London Local Area Representative
— St Albans & West Hertfordshire
Supporting teachers and students entering Trinity music exams — locally, personally, and without the confusion.
Hello!
I'm Simon Perkins, the Trinity College London Local Area Representative for St Albans and West Hertfordshire, supporting teachers and students entering Trinity music exams.
I bring over 30 years in the music profession to this role — as a Trinity College London music examiner since 2004, formerly Principal Strings Music Examiner at Guildhall School of Music & Drama, and as a freelance violinist and violist. I currently teach violin at North London Collegiate School, South Hampstead High School, and St Hilda's (Harpenden), alongside private teaching.
That means I can help you enter your Trinity music exam, answer any questions about the process, and make sure everything runs smoothly on the day — whether it's a digital exam or a face-to-face one near you.
BOOK YOUR EXAM
Ready to enter? Choose your discipline below:
Classical & Jazz → Book here
Rock & Pop → Book here
Music Theory → Book here
Not sure which one applies to you? Get in touch and I'll point you in the right direction.
About Simon
Simon has had a varied and vibrant career in the music business - playing in professional orchestras and quartets across the world, whilst examining internationally for Trinity College London and also teaching privately and in schools across London and Hertfordshire.
Music Lessons
Simon offers Violin, Viola and Piano lessons to both children and adults, online and in-person. Through instrument-specific technical exercises, learning an instrument develops authentic skills whilst exploring a wide range of repertoire to develop expressive playing.
Exam Preparation
Exam preparation is a vital part of any musicians journey. Practical graded exams alongside theoretical musical knowledge work to enhance and support practical studies. Simon offers personalised lessons to help with students specific needs.
“Our daughter, aged 8, has been having individual violin lessons with Mr Perkins for two years and piano lessons for one.
His enthusiasm and love of music together with his fun and engaging sessions really motivates our daughter to do her best.”
Do you teach students outside of the UK?
Yes! I have taught students based in India, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Malta and Russia.
Do you teach music to beginners?
Yes, I teach beginners through to diploma level.
Do you teach online?
Yes, I teach online via zoom, skype or any video calling apps that you prefer. I have found that teaching online has been a great way to keep the musical adventure going for my usual in-person students and from 2021 I will be offering this service to new students internationally.
Where are you based?
I am based in St Albans, UK - just 25 minutes via train from central London.
Do you teach music theory?
Yes, I teach music theory. Music theory is an integral part of learning a musical instrument and should be studied from the very beginning of a musician’s journey.
How much do you charge for lessons and how do I pay you?
I charge by the hour, my pricing can be found here. I accept payment via bank transfer and will send you these details when you book a lesson with me.
Do you teach both children and adults?
Yes, I teach both children and adults.
How do I book a lesson with you?
Contact me, let me know what instrument you would like to learn or what stage you are at with your learning.
We will arrange a date and time for your first lesson.
Congratulations! You have booked your first lesson and your musical exploration has begun.
