Testimonials
what others say about me
We recently had the pleasure of welcoming a group of musicians, led by Afra Jurkiewicz, into Riverbank School, who delivered an amazing concert for our children aged 4 to 11 with additional learning needs. The performance was pitched perfectly for our pupils – it was fun, engaging, and fully interactive from start to finish. The musicians created a lively and inclusive atmosphere, encouraging the children to take part by singing, dancing, and playing percussion instruments. Every child was able to engage at their own level, and it was wonderful to see so much enthusiasm, confidence, and joy throughout the session.
Our children absolutely loved it, and the room was filled with smiles and laughter throughout. The musicians showed a genuine understanding of our children’s needs and delivered an experience that was accessible, inclusive, and memorable for every pupil.
We very much hope to organise another concert in the near future, as this was an enriching and highly enjoyable experience for both pupils and staff.
Linda, Riverbank school in Cardiff
Afra has been running music sessions at Jamies Farm Hereford for over a year and she's been a fantastic addition to our team. She is a very dedicated professional, passionate about making music accessible to Young People who can often struggle with low confidence and mood. Therapeutic music making has not been offered before on our farm, until Afra visited us last year and proposed enriching our programme with music sessions. We have been lucky to have her on board.
Dave, Head of Jamies Farm Hereford
Afra has been providing regular music therapy sessions at our care home, supporting individuals with learning difficulties, autism, and behaviours that challenge. Her calm, friendly, and approachable nature ensures that each session is person-centred and adaptable to meet the unique needs of those we support. Music therapy offers a range of benefits, improving co-ordination, reducing anxieties, it even enables non-verbal individuals to express themselves. It encouraging social interaction through group sessions, and promotes new skills, such as playing different instruments.
Alice, Care Home Coordinator
Afra was my mum's music therapist for more than 18 months, visiting her around 6 times a month to sing with her and accompany her on the piano. These visits were great for my mum as they kept up her interest in music and Afra was brilliant at helping her find new and old pieces to sing, developing a great rapport and understanding of my mum as her Alzheimer's progressed. I would thoroughly recommend her!
Fred
Afra is an amazing tutor and focuses on teaching what you want to learn. I'd had previous instrument experience as a child and Afra really brought what I had learned back then to the forefront, getting me to remember elements I thought I'd forgotten and helping me get back to reading and playing music again. Her end-of-lesson duet/improv sessions are an excellent way to bring together what you've learned over the lesson and give you the confidence to know you're taking in what she's teaching!
James
Afra taught my child piano from age 9 to 15. She always had the right balance between support and challenge that's needed to keep motivation up! She guided them through the process of Grade exams but was also happy to focus on more contemporary pieces when the teenage years hit. Afra is warm, encouraging and engaging. I highly recommend Afra to student's of all ages
Allison
Afra has worked with my daughter for almost 6 years. She helped her develop a real love for music, (not just passing exams!) She got to know what my daughter needed to grow and was able to come alongside her in an individualized way to strengthen her confidence and skill. I particularly enjoyed listening to their improvisations, and when they would sing together. My daughter knew Afra believed in her and they also had fun. I would have no hesitation recommending Afra, she will help you reach your goals and teach you some Polish folk tunes too, if you like!
Anna
loved having Afra as my piano teacher because she helped me love things I used to find hard like improvising. She let me try any piece I wanted and was always enthusiastic to try something new. She would push me when I needed it, and it paid off! I'm so glad she was my first piano teacher!
E.
Afra was an absolutely incredible inspiration to me and I feel so grateful to have been taught by her
R.