My name is Lorna Collingridge and I teach piano, music theory and musicianship, and composition (I use Finale to notate my own compositions).  I am Australian by birth, but came here to Durham in 2001 to finish my PhD at Duke.  Like many others before me, I found employment, became a citizen, married my partner, and stayed!  I have two daughters and three grandchildren unfortunately living a long way from here, one family in Bedford, UK, the other in Fremantle, Australia.

I studied piano from 5 years old, eventually earning a scholarship to the NSW Conservatorium of Music where my teacher was Marjorie Hesse, a brilliant pianist and a colorful character.  You can read about her here:  

https://www.australiancomposers.com.au/pages/marjorie-hesse

I have taught music most of my working life, in the classroom (PK – 12), and privately, apart from some years in Real Estate and seven years teaching in the higher education sector in Brisbane. I began my studio, Flourishing Muse in 2008 and consistently teach between 30-35 lessons each week.

In March 2020 the pandemic meant I had to suddenly move my studio online.  However, all my students were able to continue lessons satisfactorily, and I held my first virtual recital in August 2020.  Now the pandemic is hopefully coming to an end, and as I am fully vaccinated, I am able to teach in person lessons to most students, but am still teaching some on line who do not live locally.

I am so happy to be able to pass on my skills and love of music to all ages, from 6 year old students to 80 year old adults, even more so in these difficult times. You can read more about my studio and student achievements on my blog.

Contact me: lcollingridge@gmail.com