Rick Symmonds Piano & Music Fundamentals

Rick Symmonds Piano & Music Fundamentals

5.0(1 review)

About

I hold a Bachelor's degree in music and have been a working musician for more than 25 years. While considering each student as an individual I strive to find the best course of instruction, be it reading or ear focused learning, though proficiency at both of these areas is important. I have improved my musicianship through both methods but have experienced the greatest joy of musical discovery through ear training. I feel this can be a springboard to a better understanding of music fundamentals for those who may not desire an initial reading approach. I can provide a comfortable learning atmosphere in my home, on an upright style electric piano with standard keyboard action, or would consider going to the student's home if within a reasonable distance. I am open to teaching most popular styles, including beginning to intermediate classical, rock, blues, pop, and some jazz fundamentals.


Highlights

Hired 3 times
1 employee
8 years in business
Serves KCMO , MO

Payment methods

Cash, Check, Venmo

Specialties

Years experience

No formal training, No formal training; some self-taught experience, 0 – 2 years experience, 2 – 4 years experience, 4+ years of experience

Able to read music

Student can read music, Student cannot read music

Lesson length

30 minutes, 45 minutes, 60 minutes

Student's age

11 – 13 years old, 14 – 18 years old, 19 – 25 years old, 26 – 45 years old, 46 – 65 years old, Over 65 years old

Student has instrument

Students who have a piano, Students who have a keyboard, Students who have neither

Interested musical styles

Classical, Pop, I can make recommendations

Photos and videos


  • Reviews

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    MK

    marsha K.

    He has a great ability to relate to kids, particularly those with attention disorders. Hes very accommodating to my kids style of learning.
    ... Show more
    December 17, 2024

    Frequently asked questions

    I try to determine the best approach based on the student's experience level and discuss the options of reading and hearing based methods of teaching.Ideally I try to incorporate some of both of these approaches as well as some music fundamentals.

    I hold a BA in Music from UMKC Conservatory where I studied classical piano and music theory. I have also played rock & blues with several bands in the KC area for over 20 years. I have also studied jazz theory so have some knowledge in that area as well.
    I typically charge $20 for 1/2 hour or $35/hour. I would offer a discount for one month up front payment.
    I got started on this website about 6 years ago with a few students, I have been inactive due to work obligations including weekend gigs playing with multiple bands, but I am ready to resume teaching as I am now in a semi-retirement phase,working half as many hours.
    I have worked with beginners to intermediate level players. My preference is for students who have some experience in either reading music or playing by ear.
    I would encourage a student to be open about what kind of music they like and even what particular tunes he or she may be interested in learning. Since playing by ear is key to my particular situation I thrive on imparting this skill even if the student has only reading experience. After all,our reason for wanting to learn to play stems from our love of music,so wanting to be able to play what we love is only natural.

    Services offered

    Piano
    Music Theory