Our Team

  • Jess D'Silva (she/her)

    Jess D’Silva is a professional vocalist, pianist, and music teacher with a Master’s degree in Music Performance (MMus, Vocal Studies) and a BA (Hons) in Music from the University of Liverpool. Trained primarily as a classical soprano, Jess is a true crossover also specialising in musical theatre, pop/rock, blues, jazz, and opera.

    With over 20 years of performance and teaching experience, Jess has performed with BBC Radio Merseyside, Liverpool’s prestigious cathedrals, and was previously the lead singer of an ’80s rock tribute band. She now focuses on growing Prelude School of Music and developing her solo performance career.

    Jess is passionate about helping singers find their voice, whether through classical technique, contemporary styles, or vocal coaching. Her teaching approach is tailored, supportive, and designed to build confidence and technical mastery in every student.

  • Helen Hodgkiss (she/her)

    Helen Hodgkiss is a highly skilled classical crossover clarinetist, performer, and music educator. She holds a degree from Leeds Conservatoire (2016), where she trained under the renowned Colin Honour (Opera North, Leeds).

    Helen has an extensive performance career, including session work with Soft Cell’s Marc Almond (2016 Torch Tour) and touring with Reed & Ivory, bringing modern compositions to life. She frequently performs in theatre pits, playing clarinet, flute, and saxophone in productions such as Sweeney Todd, Sister Act, and The Marriage of Figaro.

    In addition to performing, Helen has 15 years of teaching experience and is a dedicated woodwind instructor and music mentor. She teaches for Sefton & Blackpool Music Service and runs her own business, Gold Music Tuition, providing high-quality clarinet, flute, saxophone, and music theory lessons.

  • Adam Letman (he/him)

    Adam Letman is an accomplished saxophonist, arranger, orchestrator, and composer, known for his dynamic presence in the Liverpool jazz scene. His musical journey began at 15, playing lead alto saxophone in the LCC Big Band under Paul Taft.

    Adam holds a Grade 8 Music Theory qualification (2019) and earned a BA and MusM (Merit) in Orchestration & Composition from Manchester University. Over the years, he has arranged music for renowned bands such as Ian Prowse & Amsterdam, The Sway, The Classic Double, Echo Strings, and Dancing to Architecture.

    As a performer, Adam is a key member of the four-piece riot-jazz ensemble "Sweet Beans", who headlined the Derry International Jazz Festival (2023). Whether arranging, composing, or performing, Adam brings expertise, creativity, and passion to every project.

  • Han Grainger (they/them)

    Han Grainger is a highly experienced piano and music theory teacher with a Master’s degree in Music Research (2022) and a BA (Hons) in Music (2020) from the University of Liverpool. With over five years of music teaching experience, Han is passionate about helping students reach their full potential through personalized, engaging, and accessible lessons.

    Han has worked with students of all ages (5 to 60) and skill levels, whether they are learning their favorite songs, preparing for graded piano exams, or studying for GCSE and A-Level music performances. Their approach is always student-centered, ensuring each lesson aligns with individual learning styles. Han’s ultimate goal is to make learning the piano both fun and rewarding, fostering a lifelong love for music.

  • Frances Dawson (she/her)

    Frances Dawson is a talented multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, with a First-Class BA in Music & Popular Music (2023) from the University of Liverpool. Classically trained in violin and piano, Frances has expanded her musical skills to include guitar, bass, drums, and music production.

    Her unique approach blends classical training with popular music, allowing her to excel in songwriting, game music arrangements, and orchestration. She has arranged pop music for strings and chamber groups, bridging the gap between classical and contemporary genres.

    As an educator, Frances focuses on creativity, ear training, and self-expression, making her lessons both inspiring and engaging for students of all levels.

  • Jason Abernethy (he/him)

    Jason Abernethy is a highly skilled guitarist and music educator with over 17 years of experience. He holds a First-Class Honours in BSc Audio & Music Production (2023) from John Moores University and achieved Grade 8 Guitar in 2019.

    Since launching his teaching career in 2020, Jason has become known for his interactive and student-focused guitar lessons. He teaches electric, acoustic, bass, and ukulele, as well as beginner piano. His teaching philosophy emphasizes effective communication, skill-building, and musical creativity, ensuring every student progresses with confidence.