Pedagogical views

Taking a keen interest in music teaching and pedagogy, Björn has taught both violin and viola for over 20 years and held positions at various institutions such as Trinity Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London and the University of Chichester. 

After working in both Germany and the UK for a long time Björn teaches according to the ABRSM Grade system. From beginners to more advanced students from grade 1 up to grade 8 and diploma level. 

Many of Björn's students have won competitions and places of study at UK conservatoires. His students were regularly entered for Grade examinations (both Trinity and ABRSM) and over the years about 150 exams with 100% pass rate were achieved. Björn also accompanies his students on the piano up to Grade 5 and teaches both aural and theory. 

Since returning to Sweden Björn has taught at Music Schools (Kulturskolan) in Halmstad, Helsingborg and Bjuv. He now teaches at the private music school Klassiska Musikskolan in Malmö as well as privately. 

Teaching statement:

"It is vital, especially with younger students, to strike the right balance between expectations and encouragement, and to make sure they have a solid technical and postural base. I try to suggest repertoire that is enjoyable and developmental, including various pieces from all genres to complement the grade syllabus.

I create reports of lessons, and email homework and practise suggestions to students and parents on a weekly basis.

In my position at the University of Chichester I was responsible for the string orchestra as well as chamber music coaching. My work at the University of Chichester, Trinity Laban Conservatoire JD and Chigwell School in London has involved more than 30 individual students per annum and numerous ensembles.

Having an international background myself, and knowledge of the education system in several European Countries, I speak Swedish, English, German and some French, and have been a regular jury member of “Jugend Musiziert”, the German equivalent of Young Musician of the Year. 

As a teacher you have to be open to students’ varying ambitions, whether they stray from purely classical study, or take a more traditional route.

Teaching experience on all levels is important and one must never be too proud to go back to basics with a student whenever needed. "

Björn Kleiman 

BA Hons RCM, Dipl.-Musiker HfM Karlsruhe