The Tutors

 

Martin Mickels - Multi Instrumentalist

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Martin Mickels is a professional musician and visual artist based in Oxted, Surrey (UK), with a long-standing reputation for excellence in both the music and art worlds. As a seasoned guitarist, Martin has performed with a wide range of well-known bands, including Randy and the Rockets, Moonshine & Molly, The Sweet, Statetrooper, Never The Bride, Violent Storm, and Empire Kill. His dynamic playing style, deep musical knowledge, and extensive stage experience have earned him recognition across the UK and beyond.

Martin is also a critically acclaimed visual artist. His original paintings and commissioned works have been exhibited in galleries and sold online to private collectors. Known for his bold use of colour and expressive technique, Martin’s artwork has received praise from critics and art enthusiasts alike.

At the Rock and Pop Foundation, we are proud to have Martin as one of our tutors. As a skilled multi-instrumentalist, he offers instruction in a variety of instruments, bringing flexibility and depth to his teaching. His wealth of real-world industry experience, combined with a calm and engaging approach, makes him the ideal mentor for aspiring young musicians. Students benefit not only from his technical expertise but also from the creativity and insight he brings from a lifetime in professional music.

Whether on stage, in the classroom, or behind the canvas, Martin brings passion, versatility, and professionalism to everything he does—making him a truly multi-talented force and an invaluable member of our teaching team.

 

Alice Geary  - Vocals & Multi Instrumentalist

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Since graduating from BIMM University in Brighton with First Class Honours, Alice has formed a function band, worked with numerous musicians and producers, and performed at various venues around Brighton, including The Folklore Rooms, The Brunswick, and Patterns. One of her career highlights to date was singing the opener for the Women's World Cup 2023 on the BBC.

Alice specializes in the Pop, R&B, and Soul genres. As a session singer, she loves helping producers bring their vision and sound to life in the studio. She is also passionate about backing vocals and enhancing an artist's sound on stage.

She is experienced in songwriting and toplining, confident in creating vocal arrangements and harmonies, and knowledgeable across a wide range of genres. Alice comes from a family of music industry professionals who have toured with artists such as George Michael, Ed Sheeran, and Maisie Peters.

 

Kristen Biel  - Vocals 

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Kristen has a master’s degree in Music Psychology and an extensive background in the music industry. Born in the USA, she taught musical theatre classes at a prestigious Broadway dance prep school in New York before relocating to the UK with her husband and family.

In London, she was responsible for casting and managing a portfolio of voice artists, creating music and commercials from Soho studios for clients such as British Airways, Sky, and Virgin Atlantic, among others.

She now heads up vocals at the Rock and Pop Foundation and is a highly personable vocal coach from a very musical family.

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Henry Gottelier- - Multi Instrumentalist 

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Henry enrolled at the British and Irish Modern Music Institute, where he graduated in 2016 with a BA (Hons) degree in Professional Musicianship.

He is a busy freelance musician and has gained notable experience performing at some of the UK’s most prestigious music venues while on tour. Currently, Henry is the main songwriter and frontman for the up-and-coming alternative rock trio Saltlake, as well as the lead vocalist for the classic rock tribute act Groove Hoover.

Henry has also had the privilege of recording with some of the UK’s most renowned producers and at several of the country’s top recording studios.

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Chris Smith - Multi Instrumentalist 

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Chris has been with the Rock and Pop Foundation for over 10 years. Originally trained as a classical guitarist, he is a masterful and technically skilled musician. He performs as the lead guitarist for a band called The Frets and is also married to a highly accomplished pianist.

His diverse skill set has made him a versatile, all-round multi-instrumental tutor who is well-liked by all his students.

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Jim Herbert - Multi Instrumentalist 

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Jim has played guitar and keyboard for Warner/Polydor artist Lozeak in large-scale venues and has performed at events organized by Liverpool Sound City, Latitude Festival, and Spotify. He has also performed with various other artists, including renowned German violinist Iskandar Widjaja (on piano), emerging pop sensation Serel, and has played electric guitar in numerous indie and function bands in Italy.

He is a well-liked tutor, and students appreciate his calm and supportive approach to music lessons here at the Foundation.

Greg Torres- Guitar

Greg Torres is a highly skilled and passionate guitar player, now offering private guitar lessons through the Rock and Pop Foundation. With years of playing experience and a dynamic, expressive style, Greg is dedicated to helping students of all levels grow as musicians and reach their full potential on the guitar.

His lessons are tailored to each individual, covering everything from technique and theory to improvisation and performance skills. Whether you're a complete beginner or a more advanced player looking to refine your craft, Greg’s patient and enthusiastic teaching approach makes learning enjoyable and inspiring.

To see a sample of Greg’s playing, check out his performance here:
👉 Watch Greg on YouTube

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6jlPwaOZ4U

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Eva Lathwell- Piano Keyboard 

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Eva originally trained in Czechia 🇨🇿, where she developed a strong foundation in classical piano. After moving to the UK, she successfully converted her skills and qualifications to align with the ABRSM and Trinity College London standards, allowing her to offer students a well-rounded and internationally recognised approach to piano education.

She is a well-liked and approachable tutor, known for her warm and encouraging teaching style. Many children respond particularly well to Eva’s methods, making excellent progress while enjoying their lessons. Her ability to adapt to each student’s needs creates a positive and motivating learning environment.

We are delighted to have Eva as part of the Rock and Pop Foundation team, bringing her valuable experience and passion for music to our community.

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Sean Wilkinson- Multi Instrumentalist 

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Sean is one of our most experienced tutors and has been a valued member of the Rock and Pop Foundation since its inception. With a deep well of musical knowledge and a passion for teaching, Sean has made a lasting impact on countless students over the years.

His concerts are consistently outstanding—full of energy, creativity, and talent—and they regularly earn glowing praise from parents. Sean is known for his dedication; he gives his all in every lesson and performance, inspiring students to reach their full potential.

In addition to his teaching, Sean continues to perform live as the lead singer and guitarist for his band KFC (Knowledge for Chickens). His musical versatility doesn’t stop there—he also enjoys playing flamenco guitar and is a skilled multi-instrumentalist, capable of teaching a wide range of styles and instruments.

Sean’s approachable nature, passion for music, and broad expertise make him an exceptional tutor, ready to guide and inspire the next generation of young musicians.

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Rachel Chan  - Piano Teacher  

 

Rachel brings a rich combination of music and teaching qualifications to the Rock and Pop Foundation. She holds a China Preschool Teacher Certificate and a certification in Children’s Psychology and Guidance (2013), which gives her a strong understanding of early childhood development and how to engage young learners effectively. Musically, she has achieved Grade 8 in Piano through the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM, 1999) and holds a Grade 6 qualification in Percussion.

In addition to her musical and educational background, Rachel is a passionate creative with experience beyond the classroom. She works as a columnist and art consultant for Vox Amica Press 良友之聲 (since 2017), and has served as a translator and editor for various articles and children’s books, contributing to the cultural and educational enrichment of young readers.

As a mother of young children herself, Rachel brings warmth, empathy, and exceptional patience to her teaching. Her students are drawn to her calm, nurturing approach and respond positively to her engaging, structured lessons. She is a well-liked and respected tutor whose diverse skills and gentle demeaner make her a wonderful asset to our team.

Matt White - Drum Tutor 

Matt is a true industry professional and an exceptional drummer, best known for having performed with acclaimed pop artist Sophie Ellis-Bextor. With over two decades of experience in live performance and international touring, Matt brings a wealth of real-world expertise to his teaching.

We are incredibly proud that, despite his demanding professional schedule, Matt has dedicated over 15 years to working with the Rock and Pop Foundation. His passion for education and commitment to inspiring the next generation of musicians is unmatched.

In addition to his teaching, Matt tours globally with the renowned electronic/psychedelic project Ott & The Seeing I, performing to audiences around the world.

To see Matt in action during a live performance at Terminal West in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, click the link below:
👉 Watch Matt Live 

Matt’s combination of professional experience, teaching dedication, and infectious enthusiasm makes him a truly valued member of the Rock and Pop Foundation team.