Exodeye Studios

I work with all student levels and abilities.

I understand it's easy to lose drive when you're constantly drilling scales and fingering. I try to frame all of my lessons in reference to what music really is: the creation of songs. Through composition, my students won't just learn scale and chord structure, but they'll organically develop these skills while writing their own songs and building their personal portfolio.

Beginning with chord progressions and harmonies, then moving into melodies and filling up the sonic landscape of the piece. If the student feels comfortable enough to sing, then adding all the pieces to the puzzle until we have something personal and special to the student.

Over the past 10 years, I've worked as a professional touring musician (singer, guitarist, pianist) for the rock band, Inside Switch. I studied piano at the Dallas, Texas School of Music. I also attended the James Madison University music program. I have played piano for 20 years and guitar for 15.

$60/hour. I offer everything from quick 15-minute Q&A lessons to recording and songwriting sessions that can take several hours. Whatever the client needs and fits their schedule, I'm here to help.

I'm actually a high school teacher by profession, but I use my previous decades working in the music industry to offer a multitude of instructional services for individuals interested in beginning or continuing their musical journey.

Everything, but I'll offer some examples.

I have clients as young as 5 who are just getting started with music and trying out various instruments that may capture their imagination.

I have clients in their 20s and 30s who currently gig and are working to polish their sound as professional musicians.

I have clients as old as 80 who have decided to take on music for the first time to keep their minds sharp and learn a new hobby. It is never too late.

I have a client in their mid 50s that just started playing piano. They dreamed about playing a gig with a live audience. They were given the opportunity by a fantastic venue, but they were terrified at the idea of doing it alone. They asked me if I'd come along and join them to facilitate the whole gig process. I don't play a lot of gigs with students, but I knew this would make their lessons reach a whole new level of relevance in their life. She played piano and sang, and I accompanied her with guitars and drums (depending on the song's requirements). We killed it and watching them grin from ear-to-ear the entire time is a memory I'll treasure.

Contemplate and articulate your goals. If you're not sure what you want, the teacher's job becomes harder. If you're not sure what you want, be upfront about that as well.

A good teacher can help you flesh out your goals, but you should take charge of this experience. The accountability will reinforce your development.

This is a great question. Kudos, Lessons.com.

Where do you want these lessons to lead?

Be completely transparent. The student-teacher relationship thrives on honesty. A teacher won't know if they're a good match for you unless they know precisely what you're seeking assistance with.