About
I started Cardiff Piano Academy when I graduated from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in 2015, and have been teaching full time ever since.
My degree was in classical piano performance, and I studied primarily under the tutelage of Dr. Mary Dullea. Whilst I was studying at the RWCMD, I won the prestigious Mary Rees Chopin Prize, and shortly afterwards gave my solo classical concert debut in Cologne, Germany.
That was now over 10 years ago, and I've experienced a lot of variety as a working musician since then.
From a young age (I started a jazz club in primary school at the age of 9), I've loved the music of jazz and have been privileged to perform around the world as a jazz singer/pianist for Saga cruises, as well as at hundreds of functions around the UK, both as soloist and fronting bands ranging from duo to 10 piece.
Songwriting is also my constant passion project, and I've had the pleasure of gigging my original material around Cardiff with fellow RWCMD (jazz) graduates Alex Burch, Kumar Chopra and Clem Saynor.
I've worked with many singing groups in the community as a conductor and accompanist, as well as in more of a music therapy context in hospitals, prisons and care homes.
My teaching has very much been influenced by the tuition I myself have received and I've been fortunate to have received regular vocal lessons from Jose James, the "jazz artist for the hip hop generation', and Tim Richards (Royal Academy of Music); jazz piano lessons from Huw Warren (RWCMD) and Paul Jones (RWCMD) as well as attended masterclasses by concert pianists such as Freddy Kempf and Federico Colli.
I've taught students since 2005, but for the last 10 years it has been my full time profession, with performing on the side. I discovered how rewarding supporting others on their musical journey can be and now endeavour to make sure all my students have a thorough grounding in foundational matters, impeccable technique and an ability to get past the notes to the freedom of playing from the imagination.
I see my role to be a mentor/coach walking with students on their path rather than just an imparter of knowledge, and aim to provide clear guidance, encouragement and advice whenever needed.
If you're considering having lessons, feel free to give me a call or drop me a message - it would be great to connect with you.
James
James Saldivar BMus (Hons) DipLCM MISM
