Anchorsholme School of Music Limited. Ruth Birchall, Director - teacher of pianoforte and music theory

Ruth's background is in classical music, studying for several years under Nigel Pitceathly (former head of keyboard at Chetham's School of Music) and Derrick Cantrell (former head of academic studies at the Royal Northern College of Music). She subsequently gained LGSM in piano performing and teaching, LMusTCL in music theory and latterly CTABRSM in piano pedagogy and music education.

Ruth has taught since 1988 on an individual basis from her own home; from 1996 to 2003 she was also on the peripatetic staff at Highfield Priory School in Preston. During the period 1999 to 2008 Ruth held the position of head of keyboard studies at Rossall School in Fleetwood. There, she taught many international students, particularly from the far east. In addition, she has worked for Lancashire Music Service, deputising for heads of department at various high schools in the surrounding area and as an adjudicator for the Garstang Music and Arts Festival.

In her spare time Ruth plays for pleasure and is an accompanist for the instrumental examinations of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music. Conferences and seminars are also attended wherever possible to gain up to date experience of new publications and techniques.

A full Criminal Record Bureau check has been undertaken for those needing reassurance, and Ruth is a member of the Incorporated Society of Musicians and the European Piano Teachers' Association.