About
I started playing music in 1993 while in middle school. My first instrument was the cello. I intuitively knew I had found my passion: music. I soon learned electric bass, guitar, and drums. I played in symphony, rock bands, musical theater, and school jazz bands. At college (UNM) I studied Classical cello, and have a Bachelor of Arts in Music as well. During the last decade, I have learned music production, composition/arranging, and improvising in many styles. (When I think about it, there's virtually no musical performance situation I haven't been part of.. from barrooms with singer-songwriters to concert halls and symphony orchestras; weddings, music festivals, yoga retreats, recitals, coffee shops, recording studios, and a whole variety of special events.)
Today, I enjoy my life as a full-time solo cellist playing Classical and many other genres. To support my solo cello playing, I arrange, create, and record accompaniments using Logic Pro. I also perform on cello with a 3-piece band.
It is a joy to teach instrumental playing, theory, improvisation, composition/arranging, and music production techniques. I have a wide palette of musical knowledge and abilities to draw from, depending on the needs of each student. While my personal musical focus is cello, I have a lot of experience and knowledge about the guitar and bass and play them regularly (but not professionally at this time.)
Please visit ryansmithcellomusic.com if you'd like more information. I'll be glad to talk to you.
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Jacinto Temilotzin S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
For adult students, I am interested in what their learning goals are. Some people want to learn a half dozen guitar chords and a lot of songs, other people want to learn to read music, some are curious and want to explore music theory and do a more in-depth approach. I'm highly flexible. The main thing is that music is benefical to a person's life, and I'm here to support that in whatever way suits each student.
For younger students, the process is similar but I like to get an idea from the parents of what their child has been saying about music. This helps me to better know what types of things will be engaging. Mostly, I want to know the young students favorite songs, because they have the melody in their ear and I can arrange an easier version as needed.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
As I mentioned in my bio, I have a Bachelor's degree in music from UNM which includes coursework in music education. I have been taught by some of the best teachers and use many of their techniques in my teaching.