Jesse Maclaine: Singer, Pianist, Composer, Producer, Teacher
About
Sharing the gift of music through performance and education is a magical experience and every day I remind myself how lucky I am to be able to help people by making or teaching music.
I have over 25 years experience performing, composing, recording, and teaching music. Classically trained as a child, I have spent decades studying and playing many genres of music for people of all ages at thousands of public and private events. My availability is quite flexible and listed on my website along with my contact info, please reach out for more information. Prices are below; scholarships, work-trade options and discounts are available.
30 minutes - $25
45 minutes - $35
60 minutes - $45
Group lessons are the same rates plus $7 for every additional student. Master classes and workshops are available online or in person. Weekly classes are online only during the pandemic.
What don't I enjoy about the work I do? Music is the best! I was born into a musical family and have been told I was singing before I was speaking. My Mother and Grandmother were professional singers, my Great Grandmother was the church pianist, my Great Grandfather was a professional clarinet & saxophone player - touring America with various bands - he even played in the original Grand Ol' Opry, and my Scottish Grandparents were professional dancers. I chose a career in music because I love music but also to honor my ancestors and carry on their musical legacy. I've always loved music, every style has something interesting for the open minded listener. Performing, composing, and teaching music are my very favorite things in this world. Although, cats are a very close second, and dogs are pretty cool too. Like companion animals, music soothes, uplifts, entertains, inspires, and makes a vital contribution to our lives. I truly believe music makes everything better.
Photos and videos
Reviews
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
A standard first lesson is 30 minutes, we will spend a few minutes on introductions and the student's musical history so I can learn a little about their experience, motivation, goals, personality and preferences. We will discuss the form and technique of healthy singing as well as song selections and practice structure. Then we will do some gentle stretches and vocal warm ups. Next the student will sing part or all of a song and recieve feedback. We wrap up with answering any questions and reviewing any new concepts or homework assignments.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My true passion in life is music! For me, there is no greater joy than sharing the gift of music with others. I have been teaching, performing, and composing professionally for over twenty five years.
Studying under alumni from Juliard, NYU, Oxford, FSU, UNO, Berklee and Interlochen, I was classically trained in piano and voice as a child, then entered the world of musical theatre as a teen, and later studied jazz and popular music in New Orleans from 1995-2002. Recently, I received a BA from CU Boulder for Music, Psychology, and Women's Studies. I specialize in live entertainment (solo or with band), music lessons for all ages, custom compositions, soundtracks, songwriting, lyric writing, setting lyrics to music, professional recording services-voice/piano/keyboard, and producing/consulting on music projects.
"There is enough self-criticism going on already. Your task is to teach these neurotic singers how to make a better sound." Barbara Doscher, "Teaching Singing"
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Lessons are $20 for 30 minutes, $30 for 45 minutes and $40 for an hour. This includes unlimited consultations outside of our scheduled lesson time. Multiple student classes are always an option and there's a $10 fee for each extra student regardless of class length. I provide discounts for students, seniors, low income families as well as advance payments. Bonus, your first lesson is half price!
How did you get started teaching?
My parents were public school teachers, having a portion of my career focused on education was inevitable. As a musician, it's important to share knowledge and educate the next generations of artists as well as anyone who wants to improve their lives by learning music. I started teaching in my 20's and I continue to teach today because I enjoy interacting with all sorts of people and helping them learn and grow their musical skills.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with beginners to professionals, ages 6 to 88, all genders, all lifestyles, all religions, all levels of education, from hobbyists to those with professional experience... if you love music then I will work with you to help you improve your musical skills!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
A cat blinks, a butterfly lands on a flower, the sunrise is rich with shades of purple and orange, baby green tomatoes ripen in the sun, the breeze blows perfectly cool, the clouds are shaped like dragons, the sun is gently warming my skin, petunias waft their earthy scent, I'm breathing the fragrant floral air, my favorite song comes on the radio and I sip my coconut milk chai, grateful to be alive.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Consider your goals and preferred music aesthetic to find some who aligns with you. Don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions. There are likely many teachers who have something to offer and it doesn't hurt to try lessons with various people until you find someone who clicks with you. I try to empower my students with lifelong tools and I always encourage my students to be their own best teacher.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
These are generally questions I ask during the scheduling process or at our first lesson.
Why do you want to take lessons?
What are your goals?
Have you studied music previously?
What's your musical background?
What kind of music do you like?
Do you have any favorite songs or singers?
How much time do you have each week to practice?
Are you ready to make a long term commitment to self improvement and learning?
What sort of budget do you have planned?
How often do you want lessons?
What length of lesson do you prefer? (30 mins. 45 mins...)
Would you prefer private lessons or group?
Do you have any health issues which could impact your ability to sing, breathe or do gentle stretches?
Is there anything you would like to share about yourself?
Do you have any questions for me?