TEACHING
Photo by Kirsten McTernan
SINGING WITH SAFIYA
Friendly, personalised singing lessons for adults and children of all abilities in Cardiff or Online.
Whether you're just starting out, returning to singing after a break, preparing for a performance, or looking to develop your voice further, lessons are tailored around your individual voice, interests and goals.
I currently have daytime availability on Thursdays and Fridays, as well as early evening lessons Monday–Thursday, with the latest lessons finishing at 7pm.
Regular lessons from £45 per hour · £22.50 for 30 minutes
Trial lessons available from £20, with no commitment to book a block.
Photo by Kirsten McTernan
Singing and Voice
I have been singing all my life and have trained with a wide range of teachers, giving me insight into different vocal techniques and approaches. I use this experience to adapt lessons to suit each individual student.
My main speciality is jazz vocals, but I also teach musical theatre, pop and classical styles. Lessons can focus on whatever is most useful to you, whether that's developing vocal technique, building confidence, learning songs, preparing for performances, improving musicianship or exploring improvisation.
As a performer, I particularly enjoy helping students develop their own expression and musical identity, rather than simply trying to make everyone sing in the same way.
I also study the Estill Voice Model, continuing to develop my understanding of vocal function and healthy vocal control.
Photo by Kirsten McTernan
What can we work on?
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Vocal technique and healthy vocal coordination
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Confidence and developing your own voice
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Songs and interpretation
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Musicianship, rhythm, melody and harmony
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Improvisation and creativity
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Jazz, musical theatre, pop and classical singing
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Performance and microphone technique
Lessons are suitable for complete beginners as well as more experienced singers.
About Safiya
I'm a professional jazz vocalist, composer and music teacher based in Cardiff. I graduated with a First Class BMus (Hons) in Jazz Vocal Performance from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, where I developed my skills in performance, composition and improvisation.
I have extensive teaching experience across a range of settings, including class music, theory, composition, improvisation, singing and ensembles. I have taught at Bryanston School and with Gwent Music Service, as well as working with individual students.
My teaching is creative, engaging and tailored to each student. I believe that understanding the building blocks of music can give students greater freedom and confidence, particularly when combined with practical exploration and improvisation.
Photo by Kirsten McTernan
OTHER MUSIC TUITION
Although singing is my main area of teaching, I also offer tuition in music theory, composition and improvisation.
Music Theory
I studied music theory to an advanced level during my degree and have taught theory classes at Bryanston School, including students working towards ABRSM Grade 5. I hold a Distinction in ABRSM Grade 5 Music Theory.
I can support students preparing for theory exams as well as those wanting to develop their wider musical understanding, including more advanced topics such as jazz harmony and chord–scale relationships.
Composition
During my degree I composed an extensive portfolio including writing for big band, choir, small ensembles and songwriting. I have taught GCSE composition classes and provided 1-1 support for GCSE and A level coursework.
I can help students develop musical ideas, structure pieces and write confidently in a range of styles, particularly jazz, pop and vocal music.
Improvisation
Improvisation is central to my musical approach. As a jazz musician, I improvise throughout my performances and enjoy helping students develop both creativity and confidence.
I can teach improvisation across a range of instruments and help students understand both the theory behind improvisation and the freedom of spontaneous music-making. At Bryanston School, I led a weekly improvisation ensemble exploring jazz, blues and free improvisation.
Prices
Custom blocks available on request
Trial lessons area chance to meet, try a lesson and see whether regular tuition feels right for you. There is no commitment to book a block of lessons afterwards.
Applicable for first lesson only.
Practical Information
Lesson Locations
Lessons are available in person at my home in Cardiff, or online.
Home visits may be available for 60-minute lessons, depending on the location and practicalities of the journey. 30-minute home visits may also be possible in some very local areas.
Whether I’m able to offer a home visit, and whether an additional travel fee applies, will be confirmed before booking. Please provide your postcode when enquiring so I can assess the journey time, parking and other practicalities.
Cancellations
Lessons can be rescheduled up to 24 hours before the start time. Lessons cancelled after this time will receive no refund.
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Ready to get started?
Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced musician looking to develop your voice, music theory, composition or improvisation, I'd love to hear what you'd like to work on.