Biography

Robert studied classical piano as a child and then went on to study jazz piano, harmony and jazz arranging with composer and jazz pianist Dr. Peter Sander in London. He studied advanced classical piano with John Lenehan, an international concert pianist who has recorded some 40 classical cds and also with Charlotte Tomlinson, concert pianist and piano teacher at the University of Oxford.

Professionally he has worked as an accompanist in some of Londons leading ballet schools, improvising in a range of classical styles as well as playing the set classical ballet music.

As a solo jazz pianist, he has performed at celebrity parties, weddings and corporate events and for the opening of the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. He has held residencies in different hotels and fine dining restaurants in London and Hertfordshire as well as deputising for other pianists. He was also musical director of a charity show at London's leading jazz venue, the 606 club.

He previously accompanied the September Song Choral Society and his improvised music was used in a film directed by Jose Vaz which was shown at the Durban International Film Festival.

In terms of teaching, he is proud to have achieved high results when entering pupils for classical piano examinations and is one of few teachers able to teach both jazz and classical piano as well as improvisation in a wide number of styles. Students have come from as far a field as London for lessons.

Here is a list of some of the venues that Robert has played at:

Lauderdale House, Highgate.
606 Club, Chelsea
Kings Head Theatre, Islington
Sheraton Hotel, Belgravia
Kettners, Soho
Grim’s Dyke Hotel, London
West Lodge Park Hotel, London
Fulham Palace, London
Kensington Roof Garden
Clarendon Hotel, Blackheath
Chez Gerard Group