Andy Alston Music School
Andy Alston – Piano Teacher
I graduated in the mid-80s with a First-Class Honours degree in Physics and a further degree in Mathematics, followed by postgraduate study in Philosophy. Alongside my academic path, I kept developing my piano playing — having started with about a year of lessons as a child and continuing to play and learn independently.
While playing piano in a restaurant after university, I met Justin Currie, which led to me joining the band Del Amitri. I went on to record and tour with the band through their most successful years.
Since 2002, I’ve combined music with teaching — holding two postgraduate qualifications in education and lecturing at college and university level. I also offer private piano lessons to both children and adults. My teaching style is informal, supportive, and focused on measurable progress, tailored to suit learners at all levels.
In addition to teaching, I’m an active composer and producer. I write, record, and produce music across genres including jazz, classical, country, and pop, and my work receives regular airplay on radio stations in the UK and internationally.
Our Albums
Enjoy our complete collection of music albums directly on Spotify.
More!
by Crooked Timbers
Release Date: August 8, 2025
Total Time: 23 min 4 sec
Dreamtime
by Crooked Timbers
Release Date: May 26, 2025
Total Time: 54 min 34 sec
Memo-Ray
by Crooked Timbers
Release Date: May 27, 2025
Total Time: 1 hr 9 min
Penned
by Crooked Timbers
Release Date: July 19, 2025
Total Time: 33 min 51 sec
Women's Hour
by Crooked Timbers
Release Date: July 13, 2025
Total Time: 36 min 6 sec
Schemetime
by Crooked Timbers
Release Date: July 13, 2025
Total Time: 44 min 11 sec
Theo-Ray
by Crooked Timbers
Release Date: July 6, 2025
Total Time: 45 min 30 sec
Nightshift
by Crooked Timbers
Release Date: June 23, 2025
Total Time: 50 min 34 sec
Broadside Ballads Reconfigured
by Crooked Timbers
Release Date: May 15, 2023
Total Time: 28 min 29 sec
On This Ocean
by Crooked Timbers
Release Date: May 12, 2021
Total Time: 48 min 5 secc
Clients Say
Testimonials
I contacted Andy in October 2022 to help me be more efficient and better focus on my piano self-learning process that I started by myself two years before meeting him.
He is an exceptionally highly skilled piano performer, and also a very good teacher. He flexibly adapted to the music type and piano learning path I was looking for.
He quickly and accurately gauged my piano level, and we started from there.
I’ve been attending lessons every week since then. Attending 1h a week with him has forced me to keep a consistent study pace by myself, and organize my learning and practice time at home much more efficiently. I have clearly sensed my speed of progress has notably increased, as a consequence of the weekly commitment to meet with him.
During the months I have been so far with him, I have already recommended Andy to other workmates who have also started music lessons with him. They all report being very satisfied.
As an adult piano self-learner, I recommend Andy to anyone who is in a similar situation and is looking for a professional musician who can guide them in their piano learning journey.
Good performances!
Andy is a wonderful tutor with a wealth of knowledge. He is patient, devoted to his music, and keen to share his years of musical expertise. I recently passed my Grade 1 thanks to Andy, and have now moved on to Grade 2. If you are looking for a piano tutor, look no further. Thank you Andy for all your support so far, I really couldn’t have done it without you.
Andy is an incredible piano teacher who was recommended to me by a colleague. I’ve been taking lessons from him for almost a year now, and I’m thrilled with how much my skills have improved during that time. The best thing about Andy is that he understands my abilities and music style preferences, making the lessons feel personalized and enjoyable.
Since I started taking lessons with Andy, I feel motivated to attend my weekly sessions and this consistency has helped me practice at home as well. I used to play the piano when I was 10 years old, but it’s been twenty years since then, so I always wanted to relearn those skills. Thankfully, Andy has been patient and supportive, bringing out the best in me with his kind and positive attitude.
As someone who works from 9 to 5, these piano lessons have become the highlight of my week. It’s a dedicated time I set aside for myself where I can pursue my passion and look forward to every session with Andy. One day, I even came to him with a hand-written song I had composed, and to my surprise, he helped me finish it! Now, not only do I have an incredible and knowledgeable piano teacher, but I also have a song that I can play and sing along to. I highly recommend Andy to anyone looking for a piano teacher. His passion for music, ability to adapt, and positive teaching approach make him the perfect mentor. You won’t be disappointed by his expertise and dedication. Give him a try!
Excellent teacher. Very patient. Incredibly talented and understanding with new learners
Great piano teacher. Had a really good experience and learned so much.
Andy is a fantastic tutor. My son was very anxious about getting his Nat 5 pieces up to the standard needed for the exams. With Andy’s support, his confidence grew a lot. He not only passed with a B, but now really enjoys playing the piano with a new sense of confidence and passion. I’d happily recommend Andy to anyone looking for extra support for their child.
Your Career in Music Starts Here
I began learning classical piano as a child, studying for a year and building the foundations of reading music and playing scales. Before long, I found myself drawn to jazz and other styles — exploring new sounds, thinking about the kind of music I wanted to play, and developing my own approach.
That curiosity led me to play with different bands, one of which became successful and still tours and records today.
Music can take you in unexpected directions. If you learn enough to propel yourself forward, your own musical journey might lead to places you’d never imagined — from local performances to professional tours, or anywhere in between.
Meet Our Teachers
Teaching Staff
Fantastic Music Teacher Family
Our highly qualified teachers are dedicated to providing students with an exceptional music education and bring a wealth of both teaching and performance experience to their practice.
Visiting Andy’s Piano
Campus Tours
Visiting Andy’s Piano is more than just a music lesson — it’s an inspiring journey into the world of music. Whether you're stepping into the studio for the first time or joining an online session from anywhere in the world, you’ll experience a welcoming environment where creativity and learning thrive. At Andy’s Piano, students of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to explore their passion for music through a blend of classical technique and modern improvisation.