Chris Ussery Music Lessons
About
I am a teacher of music. In the not so distant past, I have been a film and television music composer/producer, College Professor, church pianist, Jazz, Rock and Classical performer. In fact, I still wear many of those hats.
I have been teaching since 2004, and it might be the best thing I ever decided to do in my life. I have been blessed with many exciting musical opportunities in my life, and passing on the lessons I have learned is the most exciting opportunity of all. Watching a student who is new to music learn how to approach the piano and take command is exhiliarating to me. Helping adults come back to music after being absent, teaching young adults the priciples of recording and producing with software, showing experienced pianists the keys to unlock the Blues and Jazz, this is how I have decided to make my world a more beautiful and creative place.
I have a lot to share, from how to begin properly, to what to do with music now that it is a big part of who you are. I hope we can work together!
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First, we find out where the new student is at in their piano studies so far. Beginners are very welcome, and we go over the piano keyboard, the right way to sit, and the right way to hold the student's hands to avoid any sports injuries. Yes, piano playing is like many sports! Then we get the appropriate study books and get started.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I studied music at 3 different colleges, in California, Arizona, and Illinois. I also studied privately for a total of 11 years with a wonderful teacher. I have been teaching for 17 years.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Piano lessons are $20 for a half hour lesson, more than enough time to evaluate progress and assign songs and theory learning for the next week's practice.
How did you get started teaching?
After a career in music performance and composing for television and films, I began teaching at Prairie State College in 200, both music production classes and indiviual lessons.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have been teaching beginners ages 8 through 70, intermediate students of all ages, and the more advanced students who often want to step outside of their formal classical training in order to learn improvisation, composing, and using computers to record and produce fully realized arrangements ready for distribution.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
My greatest joy is to help my students succeed in college auditions, competitions, and perhaps move into one of the many professional aspects of music performance, arrangement, and production.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for someone who speaks to your musical goals. Studying music can open up new ways to think about so many other disciplines. Math, communication, history, and even interpersonal experiences. Confidence, determination, self esteem, and the value of working at something individually.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Will this teacher be a good listener? Will this teacher respect my whole self and understand that piano lessons are one aspect of a busy life? Is my teacher a master of the piano, and familiar with the vast repertoire of piano music and styles? Will my teacher be fun to work with even as they are making me do things that seem hard at first? And of course, how far do I think I want to go?