Why We’re Here
Founded in 2025, Motive was built by musicians who wanted to create the kind of music school we wish we had growing up — one that feels genuinely supportive.
Traditional classrooms can be overwhelming, fast‑paced, or one‑size‑fits‑all. Some students thrive there. Others need something more personal.
That’s where we come in.
Sharing Our Passion for Music.
A personalised alternative to traditional music education.
Most people don’t quit music because they don’t love it — they quit because traditional teaching made them feel judged, behind, or not good enough.
Motive Music Academy exists to change that.
Motive is a modern, intimate & personalised music academy where every student feels seen, supported, and inspired. A place where lessons feel human instead of formal. Creative, not rigid. Encouraging, not intimidating.
We teach real music, build real confidence, and help students discover what they’re truly capable of.
What Makes Motive Different?
Personalised, not standardised
Every lesson is tailored to the student — your goals, your pace, your music taste.
Ready to begin your journey with us?
Meet The Mentors
A proficient drummer with 10 years of experience, I strive to inspire students with my passion. I’ve played gigs in both original & function bands, recorded music and graduated uni with a first-class musicianship degree.
I’ve taught pupils of many ages, abilities, and backgrounds. From teaching six-year-olds in primary schools, to teenagers from home or adults at music shops. Now, I teach them all at Cheltenham's coolest music academy.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach; that’s why I teach lessons that can be tailored to your goals—with hundreds of songs, various challenges & exercises to suit you.
I enjoy playing a range of genres, including Rock, Funk, Punk, Fusion, and Metal.
Favourite artists: Deftones, Fontaines D.C, Muse, Avenged Sevenfold, Sleep Token
Jake Oakey
(Drums/Founder)
10 Years of Drumming
& 5 Years Teaching Experience
First-Class BA (Hons) in Professional Musicianship
Grade 8 Rockschool Drums
Meet The Mentors
Hi, I'm Max.
I've been playing piano since the age of 9. It quickly became a passion for me, which has remained over the years.
I studied music, production & composition. I've also gained a comprehensive knowledge of music theory and songwriting.
As a teacher, I’d be best suited to a student wishing to develop not only as a pianist, but as a creative musician. I'm open to different styles of learning and can adapt my teaching style to best guide you towards your goals.
I enjoy playing classical music, jazz, soul, blues, country, rock, pop and everything in between.
Favourite artists: The White Stripes, Nina Simone, Outkast, Bright Eyes, Sublime, The Clash
Max Flenley
(Piano)
17 Years of Experience
BA (Hons) Music Production
Multi-instrumentalist & songwriter
Meet The Mentors
Charles Pickard is a Canadian born musician based in Gloucestershire. He has been playing music for 18 years and teaching for 6 years.
He also has experience in songwriting, performing, recording, producing, and live sound.
Having grown up with a stutter from a young age, Charles knows firsthand the potential music has to help people find their voice.
He has studied and performed many genres including rock, pop, folk, punk, jazz, funk, and Latin,
just to name a few. Discovering new music and ideas is one of his many passions.
Favourite artists: Tame Impala, Frank Ocean, Kendrick Lamar, System of a Down, Green Day
Charles Pickard
(Guitar/Bass)
16 Years of Experience
& 7 Years Teaching
Bachelor of Music from MacEwan University
Multi instrumentalist & songwriter
Meet The Mentors
Hello! I'm Jemima, an experienced singing teacher, and professional musician, with 5 years teaching experience and over 10 years performing experience.
I teach a range of vocal styles and genres, including pop, rock, musical theatre and choral.
I have a great passion for music, teaching, singing and performing. I love to share my passion and enthusiasm with my students.
No matter the age or experience, I would love to teach anyone who wants to have a fun, engaging time, learning vocal techniques, performance skills and confidence.
Favourite Artists: Stevie Nicks, David Bowie, Miley Cyrus, Stevie Wonder, Erykah Badu
Jemima Speller
(Vocals)
10 years singing experience
First class (BA Hons)
in Performing Arts
LAMDA trained vocalist
What you should know before booking
In your first lesson, you’ll get comfy with your instrument, try out some basics, and chat with your tutor about what you’d love to learn. This way, we can make your lessons all about you!
It’s great if you have one to practice at home, but no worries if not! We’ve got instruments you can use during lessons, and we can help you find a rental or purchase option that works for you.
Absolutely! You’re welcome to test out a few different instruments during your first lessons. We’ll help you find the one that feels just right for you.