Get More out of Bridge
More Success. More Enjoyment.
Personalised bridge coaching delivered with patience and humour for Sydney club players looking to improve without feeling intimidated.
Bridge is an endlessly fascinating and complex game. There are lots of ways to improve, whether it's through regular play, attending workshops at the club, reading books or following an expert online, but if you feel you could benefit from something more bespoke, private lessons are a great way to go.
About Me
Experienced Bridge Teacher and Director
I'm Garry Viner.
You might recognise me from North Shore Bridge Club. I've been teaching there for a couple of years, working with those who are new to the game, and those who simply want to improve. I have created two courses for new players, supervise recent learners, and direct occasionally.
I've been a bridge player for over 35 years. I started playing as a student, and represented NSW as a youth player.
I'm a strong player who does very well in competition, but I'd be the first to admit that there are better players out there. If you want to learn from a national champion, I'm not your guy.
But what I am particularly good at is giving clear guidance on how to improve your game. I'm very patient, have what some would describe as a unique sense of humour, and my approach is always to make the experience as engaging and informative as possible.
As a result I am now offering private tutoring for individuals, partnerships and small groups to complement NBSC's existing face-to-face and online sessions.
Coaching Options
Lessons Tailored to You
For Individuals
One-on-one coaching tailored entirely to you — whether face-to-face at your home or online. Work on the areas that matter most, from No Trumps and slam bidding to card play and defence.
Learn moreFor Pairs
Build a stronger partnership through dedicated sessions for two. Clarify bidding agreements, develop your system together, and improve defensive signalling so you're always on the same page.
Learn moreFor Small Groups
Groups of four to six players in a relaxed, friendly environment. Everyone plays hands, discusses different approaches and learns from each other — highly interactive and one of the most effective ways to improve.
Learn moreIs This for Me?
The Benefits of Private Bridge Lessons
Build Confidence
Are you a recent learner, or perhaps a longer-term player who is lacking confidence and wondering if you'll ever get the hang of it?
I can work with you to embed the fundamentals and make playing bridge a more relaxing and pleasurable experience.
Win More Tricks
Are there specific areas of play that you are struggling with? Maybe it's defense and you struggle to know what to lead once dummy comes down. Maybe it's declaring NT hands, or managing trumps successfully.
If you would like to focus on a particular area, I can create custom hands and we can work through how to build your skills.
Level Up Faster
Maybe you'd like to progress from a Supervised session to something more competitive. Maybe you'd like to try your hand at an Open session.
If you feel stuck in a rut and want quick improvements to your duplicate score regardless of your level, I can help you.
Expand Your Bidding Toolkit
Are you interested in adding new conventions to your armoury, or even exploring other bidding systems.
There are countless gadgets and tools to help better describe your hand, and I can work with you to build a rock-solid system.
Ready to Improve Your Game?
Book your first lesson today and start playing with more confidence, skill, and enjoyment.
How It Works
One Table, Full Attention
Your Group
No more than 4 people — two pairs playing NS/EW where I watch and advise, or three people with me sitting in. We can also make this work for a single partnership or an individual. Get in touch to discuss.
Your Location
I am happy to come to you anywhere on Sydney's north shore, from North Sydney to Hornsby.
Flexible Hands
I will bring cards, and can prepare hands in advance if you want to focus on particular scenarios — otherwise we will use random deals.
Two Hour Sessions
A session runs for two hours during which we can discuss theory if you choose, or jump straight into playing. With each hand, I'll provide guidance around bidding, declarer play and defense, and explain clearly how you could have found that contract, or won those extra tricks.
Pricing
An investment in your bridge success
Per session, regardless of group size
2 hours
of focused instruction
Up to 4 people
per session
Just over $30/hour
per person (group of 4)
Price includes travel to and from location and any preparation time, as well as the 2-hour lesson itself.
Testimonials
Hear From Happy Students
"I've really enjoyed learning bridge with you. Your teaching style is clear, patient, and encouraging, which makes the game much easier to understand. A wonderful bridge teacher. Highly recommended."
Maryanne, S Turramurra
"Garry has made a big impact to my game in a short period of time. His knowledge of the game is profound, and his private lessons have allowed me and my partner to learn at our speed and make very good progress. If you're looking to elevate your bridge game in a supportive and entertaining environment, Garry is your man."
Howard, Mosman
"Bridge lessons with Garry are both instructive and fun. He will concentrate on our weaknesses and goes at a pace that is just right. Garry's lessons have reignited my enthusiasm for bridge. I highly recommend him."
Sarah, E Lindfield
FAQ