The Music Box
Piano lessons that build confidence, creativity, and a healthy, lifelong love of music.
At The Music Box, we believe learning piano should feel encouraging, engaging, and enjoyable from the very beginning.
Our approach combines healthy technique, creativity and real musical experiences, helping students not only learn to play, but grow in confidence and develop a genuine connection with music.
Whether your child is completely new to the piano or already learning, lessons are tailored to support their individual pace in a calm, supportive environment.
Why Parents Choose Us
Parents choose The Music Box because their children don't just learn to play - they grow in confidence, independence, and enjoyment of music.
Healthy technique from the very beginning.
We focus on ease of movement and good habits early on, helping students play comfortably and avoid tension or frustration.
A calm, supportive environment.
Every child is different. Lessons are ecouraging, pressure-free, and tailored to each student.
Learning beyond the lesson.
Through Piano Labs and Piano Orchestra South Wales, students experience music as something shared, social, and exciting.
Real musical experiences.
From group playing to performances, students build confidence and see what their learning leads to.
A balanced, modern approach.
We combine strong technical foundations with creativity, listening and musical understanding - not just passing exams.
Teachers who genuinely care.
We take the time to understand each student and support them in a way that builds confidence and enjoyment.
Meet the Team
Our teaching team combines professional experience, thoughtful teaching, and a shared belief that music should feel accessible, enjoyable, and inspiring from the very beginning.
Each student is supported not just to learn, but to grow in confidence, creativity, and develop a lifelong connection with music.
Piano Teacher
Nichola McCloy
Healthy technique. Creative Learning. A lifelong love of music.
Nichola began her formal study of the piano at the age of 17, completing her Grade 8 exam just one year later. After leaving the Royal Northern College of Music, she continued her studies with teachers of the Taubman approach in Berlin and New York.
She has trained with Edna Golandsky in New York and at the Summer Symposium at Princeton University and has performed in masterclasses.
Nichola had extensively studied healthy, efficient piano technique, helping students develop ease, freedom of movement, and confidence at the instrument from the very beginning.
In addition to her private teaching, Nichola teaches piano at Llangattock and Gilwern Primary Schools.
Alongside her teaching, she is deeply passionate about creativity and ensemble music-making. She regularly creates piano orchestra arrangements, giving students the opportunity to be part of something unique, collaborative, and inspiring.
Nichola is the Artistic Director of Piano Orchestra South Wales, the world's first piano-only orchestra. Students are given the opportunity to become part of this exciting musical community - performing together, building confidence, and experiencing music beyond the traditional lesson.
Her teaching combines strong technical foundations with creativity, helping students not only play well, but develop a lifelong enjoyment of music.
Piano Instructor/Jazz/Music Therapy
Martha Skilton
Supportive learning. Real-world music experience. Confidence from the start
Martha has recently joined the team as instructor for beginner Piano Lab classes.
She studied at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and is also a fully qualified and licensed Music Therapist.
As a skilled jazz saxophonist, pianist and freelance musician, Martha brings real insight into the professional music world. As an active performer in successful bands, with national and international experience, she helps students see what's possible and connects their learning to real music-making.
Martha also plays an important role in our Piano Orchestra sessions, helping to create a supportive, engaging group environment where students grow in confidence, teamwork, and musicality.
Her knowledge as a music therapist brings a thoughtful, nurturing approach, supporting students to feel comfortable, confident, and motivated as they learn.
Martha is passionate about teaching and enjoys supporting young children in their musical journeys.