Hi, I'm Marla!

Music has been my language for as long as I can remember.

Not the polished, academic kind only — but music as a way of expressing who we are, connecting with others, and making sense of the world around us.

I’m originally from Poland, where I completed my formal education in classical voice, which remains my main instrument. After finalising my studies there, I continued learning through private teachers, masterclasses, courses, and workshops in different countries.

But above all, I am — and always have been — self-taught at heart.

That matters, because self-directed learning is what shaped the way I teach today.

I learn best by curiosity, experimentation, and observation — and so do many of my students. This is why my lessons are tailor-made, never one-size-fits-all. I genuinely believe that every person has a different personality, nervous system, learning preference, pace, and motivation — and music education should respect that.

I am also neurodiverse (ADHD), which deeply influences my teaching in a positive way. Many parents tell me I am exceptionally patient and understanding — something I’m very grateful for — and I know it comes from lived experience.

I understand that most children (and many adults!) cannot sit still for a full lesson, focus on only one task, or learn effectively through repetition alone. And honestly? That’s completely okay.

Because of this, my lessons are varied, dynamic, playful, and responsive. We use games, challenges, creative exercises, movement, improvisation, different songs, and different approaches to the same material. I constantly observe the student — their mood, energy, curiosity — and adjust in real time.

Sometimes the lesson is about learning patience, consistency, and seeing results through practice.

Sometimes it’s about recognising that a child simply doesn’t connect with a particular song or style — and then we change it.

Music should challenge us, yes — but it should also feel like ours.

I work with people who love music because it helps them express themselves, relax, feel grounded, playful, confident, or connected. Music, for me, is a bridge between the inner and outer world — without needing heavy spiritual language to explain it.

I came to the UK originally in search of further musical studies, but along the way I discovered something equally important:

I love travel, psychology, and the many ways music exists across cultures.

I spent years backpacking across multiple countries in Asia, where I discovered world music, creative voice, and new ways of making sound beyond traditional structures. During that time, I wrote, composed, produced my own music, and worked as a singer-songwriter and music producer. I also ran creative voice and world-music-inspired vocal workshops.

At some point, I realised I couldn’t do everything at once — and I consciously paused performing and producing to focus on teaching.

Not because music creation stopped mattering — but because I discovered that teaching is my calling.

I noticed that when people praised my voice or performances, my genuine response was always:

“But you can learn this too.”

And I truly mean that.

One of my strongest beliefs — and something I care deeply about — is this:

Music is not about talent.

Talent is simply a predisposition — something that comes a little easier at the beginning.

But sooner or later, everyone has to practice.

So many people block themselves by believing they are “not talented” or “tone deaf”. In reality, true tone deafness (amusia) is very rare.

If you can recognise the melody of Happy Birthday, you are not tone deaf.

You can learn music. You can learn to sing. You can learn an instrument.

Lessons are guidance.

Practice is where transformation happens.

My personal mission — and life challenge — is to find ways to help people want to practice.

To turn practice into something enjoyable, motivating, relaxing, and meaningful.

A moment just for themselves — a routine that becomes a refuge from daily life rather than another obligation.

During COVID, I spent six months living in Bali, where I recorded a vocal course for adults — a gentle, grounding introduction to singing for people who feel blocked, shy, or disconnected from their voice. It remains one of the projects I’m most proud of, and I see it as a beautiful first step for anyone who wants to begin singing without pressure.

At the moment, I’m also developing new musical programs — including children’s projects — which I’m incredibly excited about.

I adore animals, and dogs in particular.

My little Bobi (a Bichon Frise) — my second dog — inspired the creation of Marla & Bobi’s Magical Show, a musical, playful world for children that combines storytelling, magic, humour, and piano learning.

You’re very welcome to watch the first season on YouTube and keep an eye out for upcoming courses.

If you ever have questions, curiosity, or simply want to reach out — I’m always happy to talk.

Knowing there is interest in what I create is one of my biggest motivations to keep going.

And finally — my teaching space is decorated in a magical, cosy style.

Bobi always warmly greets new students, then curls up somewhere nearby for a nap.

He has become part of the studio’s identity — bringing comfort, joy, and a lot of smiles to the children who come for lessons.