Teaching Testimonials
“Penny has given me new enthusiasm and confidence not only in singing but also in connection with music as a whole. Having not previously had music lessons for 20 years, and never having sung with much finesse, I have over the last 3 years been very grateful for Penny’s careful and contextualising approach, helping me to learn technically by always taking the time to explain the why – the history, emotion, music theory, physiological awareness and other factors. During the COVID-19 disruption, I have enjoyed Penny leading me through the Kodály Method, an approach to teaching musicality that has worked well remotely, and has given me at the very least better intonation to take back into my songs.”
Tim K, current student
“Having singing lessons with Penny was the absolute highlight of my week. She is a fantastic teacher who focuses on technique and performance practice, whilst also maintaining an air of friendship and compassion. She expects 100% effort from you, and in return, you gain a teacher that will not only push you but will always root for you. I highly recommend lessons with Penny!”
Emily B, ex student
“Penny has been integral in shaping me into the artist and person I am today. She was my first singing teacher and taught me for 7 years; she honed my technique and musicianship and hugely developed my voice. She also helped me discover my love of performing and the power of storytelling. I am now a professional Music Theatre performer and I will still go to Penny for advice and a catch up – she will be one of the first to know if I ever get that dream role!”
Heather C, ex student
“Miss Grant taught me for 5 years and really improved my technique, interpretation and general musicianship. She pushed me to achieve what she knew I was capable of, whilst being incredibly supportive. I’m certain that I wouldn’t have achieved distinctions in all of my singing exams, or gone on to study music at university if she hadn’t taught me and guided me as well as she did – I looked forward to every lesson and got so much out of my time with her.”
Charlotte S, ex student
“Penny was my teacher for 7 years – all through secondary school – and through that time she encouraged me to become a better performer, singer, and individual. Her invaluable advice and coaching enabled me to begin a career as a professional musician, and her kindness and patience taught me how to deal with pretty much anything the professional world can throw at me. I can honestly say I wouldn’t be where I am today without her!”
Katie B, ex student
“Miss Grant has taught me so much over the 7 years I’ve been her student. She’s helped me to grow as a singer technically, teaching me to control my breath, project more and effectively support my voice on high notes, but she’s also helped me to grow in confidence by pushing me to enter singer’s concerts and giving me pep talks before exams. She’s an incredible teacher and I highly recommend becoming her student!”
Sarah L, ex student
“Miss Grant taught me for about 5 years and really brought me out of my shell. I was terrified to sing in front of anyone when I started and she boosted my confidence immensely. Lessons were always fun and light-hearted but she worked me hard, to help improve my technique and the strength of my voice. It is down to her that I got to play ‘Fantine’ in a production of Les Miserables just after I finished school, and I miss her lessons hugely.”
Natasha E, ex student
“Not only is Miss Grant a fantastic teacher, she builds you up to have the confidence you need to grow into the best musician you can be. One of the most talented singers herself, she channels that into her teaching, inspiring all of her students every day.”
Jess F, ex student
Performance Reviews
“Penny Grant’s soaring lines carried magnificently over the choral texture, and she was equally persuasive when leading the choir in the instantly memorable pop-ballad setting of the Lord’s Prayer.”
Phillip Young, Petersfield Post
(Review of Fanshawe’s African Sanctus, Privett, Hampshire)
“Penny Grant was invited back by popular demand after the dazzling performance she gave in 2008, and she did not disappoint. Presenting a very well-constructed programme with something to suit everyone…Penny is not only an excellent singer. She lives everything she sings… Thank you, Penny.”
Gill Skidmore
(Review of Recital, Nuffield College, Oxford)
“…Penny Grant, impressed as always with her strong, rich soprano voice, put to perfect use here in Mozart’s Exultate Jubilate and Schumann’s Mondnacht”.
Nicola Lisle, Oxford Times
(Review of Oxford Festival Concert)
“Penny Grant’s fine soprano voice, very pleasing in its clarity and flexibility with admirable diction. These qualities again showed in Handel arias…and William Croft’s pleasing secular cantata…Throughout the concert, the singing was well characterised… We should hear more of Penny Grant”
John Long, Oxford Times
(Review of New Oxford Ensemble Recital)