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Jim Holman Piano, Theory, Songwriting, And Improvisation Lessons

Jim Holman Piano, Theory, Songwriting, And Improvisation Lessons

5.0(2 reviews)
Offers online services
Offers online services

About

Welcome to Jim Holman Piano, Theory, Songwriting, and Improvisation Lessons, where we are dedicated to nurturing your musical journey. Based in Chicago, IL, our approach emphasizes personalized instruction in piano and music theory, tailored to your unique strengths and learning objectives. Whether you're a novice or seeking to refine your skills, our lessons are designed to inspire and enhance your musical expression. Join us to explore the world of music with a focus on creativity and foundational excellence.

Highlights

14 years in business
Serves Chicago , IL
Offers online services

Photos and videos

    • Reviews

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    KC

    Kathy C.

    Jim was an amazing teacher. So patient, knowledgeable, talented, and structured. I couldnt have asked for a better experience for me or my son. I recommend him to anybody who asks. I dont think you could find a more engaging or patient teacher!
    ... Show more
    May 30, 2020
    RG

    Richard G.

    I found Jim to be very knowledgeable and able to put things in my terms. As a beginner he was able to teach me how to play and read some music. He is patient yet passionate enough to push you. Hes always willing to answer questions (even my most basic ones) with enthusiasm. Would definitely recommend to any level student because Ive seen him play and here can jam.
    ... Show more
    May 30, 2020

    Frequently asked questions

    BEGINNER PIANO:

    Learn your favorite song. Learn how to play it. Understand what you play. Understand the song. Apply this understanding to help you more effectively express yourself.

    INTERMEDIATE PiANO:

    Expand on our understanding of the piece. Use lessons learned from previous experience to inform new projects. Further emphesis on theory and analysis of the musical information provided to inform how we address proper technique all to serve the emotional psychology of the work.

    SONGWRITING/COMPOSITION:

    If we are coming into writing music cold first, we need to look at music that we enjoy. We can see where scales and chords/harmony and rhythm are employed or are not employed. Looking at how broad issues like pulse, storytelling, text painting, tension and release, and arrangement inform the emotional arc of the peice. Then start writing- first with no theoretical thinking. Then we analyze what was successful and unsuccessful without negative judgement--just acceptance. Eventually we start writing with specific goals in mind. Again we examine what was effective and what was not.

    IMPROVISATION (Jazz or otherwise):

    Although theory is an integral part of studying improvisation, our primary reference is recordings of other improvisors. Here it is imperative to tie our understand with our aural training. We pick the music off of the recordings. Studying improvisation is made up of two very different areas of practice: 1.) uncreative/memorization, 2.) purely creative.  In the creative realm of practice we should see the things we have internalized inform our process--but with no effort. We will learn how to become rigerous in our creativity. For Jazz piano an important thing we will cover is a system for chord voicings.

    MA Jazz Performance, DePaul

    BA Music, University of Pittsburgh

    very young to very old

     If you just "want to learn piano," great! But make sure whatever training you receive helps you develop a creative voice. There are plenty of powerful machines that can execute notes in real time flawlessly. Music is a Human enterprise. Be Human.

    Services offered

    Piano
    Music Theory