About
Hi, I'm Robin, of GRAHAM MUSIC STUDIO. Thanks for stopping by. My studio is online via Zoom. Online lessons are wonderful -- no gasoline to buy and no annoying traffic! It is so nice to learn in the comfort of your favorite setting.
Please see my reviews here, on Google Maps at Graham Online Music Studio or on Takelessons.com. I have lots of references available and I am background-checked.
- See grahammusicstudio.com
I have been teaching voice, piano and music theory/composition for over 20 years; and have had a professional career in singing, songwriting and performing, beginning at age 15.
I welcome new students and love bringing out the best in every individual. I also specialize in vocal audition preparation, bringing the student to a higher level of performance, ready to impress and make a great presentation when auditioning. I've had several students audition for The Voice and America's Got Talent, as well as numerous local productions. Below I'll go over a few things I consider very important with a few of the subjects I teach.
For voice lessons, I specialize in teaching what the student has a desire to learn, together with great technique that will last a lifetime. I emphasize breath and diaphragm control, flexibility and range extension.
For piano lessons, I combine great technique with an emphasis on music theory. For piano lessons, I require the student having 24-hour access to a piano or keyboard. It's nice to have an 88-key, weighted key digital piano or keyboard. If you don't have an 88-key instrument, you want to strive for that. I prefer the student own a 'real' piano, if possible.
When it comes to composition/music theory, I love making it easy to learn, so it is never overwhelming. Learning theory properly can open up a whole world of songwriting. Having a heavy background in composition, I love the creativity that can happen utilizing the tools of music theory.
I can teach students with some special needs. Just ask.
I teach 30, 45 and 60 minute lessons. If you need more time, just let me know.
My home studio is a fun, relaxed atmosphere and even though I focus heavily on technique, we're always going to have FUN learning and enjoy what we're accomplishing!
If you are under 18 years old, you MUST have an adult sign up and pay for lessons for you. Thanks and I so look forward to meeting you.
EXPERIENCE/CAREER:
- Lead Singer/Writer
THE TRADE was my original alternative-rock band. We toured regionally and gained commercial and college airplay throughout the country. I also promoted and marketed my band.
- appeared on several newscasts and radio station talk shows (including the renown Mitch Albom show);
- received distribution of my music for retail sale in Best Buy, as well as, world-wide sales through CDbaby.com.
- have written, recorded and co-produced three of my own CDs, as well as, appeared on numerous compilation CDs. The CD, "I Will Run" was co-written with Monica Robins (Ch. 3, Cleveland Health Anchor) for The Race For The Cure, Cleveland, Ohio. I am also very proud to announce that my first CD, "Into The Dark Rains" is in the Northeast Ohio music archive at the internationally- known Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
OWNER/INSTRUCTOR: GRAHAM MUSIC STUDIO
- I teach a variety of subjects including piano, voice and music theory with emphasis on performance and personalization. Audition preparation is something I especially enjoy teaching because it helps the student meet a goal.
For beginners, I recommend lessons that are one-half hour; and forty-five minutes and forty-five minutes to one hour for intermediate student levels.
Through a vast network of instructors, I can also help students learn about marketing/promotion and how to create an image for themselves and their musical project(s). I also work very closely with top-notch recording and video studios, so it's easy to create a professional CD for a musical project or for audition.
Educational qualifications:
- studied voice; composition; and fine art at The University of Akron and Kent State University.
Come enjoy the learning experience! To give the gift of music is one of the greatest gifts one can receive! I am so looking forward to meeting you!
I love meeting new students and hearing about their goals and dreams and helping them come true! I LOVE MY STUDENTS!
Specialties
Instrument(s)
Experience level
Students age
Interest(s)
Lesson length
Photos and videos
Reviews
Chuck B.
Alice C.
Diane B.
Noah M.
Anusha P.
Brody S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
At our first lessons, we discuss goals and go over what lessons will require from you and answer any questions or concerns you have.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Dean's List: University of Akron, Composition/Graphics double-major.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$35, half-hour; $45, 45 minutes; $60, one-hour. I accept tuition via many different forms of payment.
How did you get started teaching?
I've been teaching most of my life, but got started professional in 2000 after many people telling me I should!
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with non-professionals, professionals, special needs, retirees, and kids. My students range in age from 7 to 83! I love them all.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
My students get stickers when they do a great job or even try their hardest. A great student moved and lost his batch of stickers. We recorded a song we posted to Facebook and requested that someone send him stickers. Another student DID send him some, anonymously! He thought I sent them to him. He has yet to find out who sent them to him. It was so cute!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Just make sure you have a good feeling about the teacher and you feel a connection. It's good to ask questions about how they can help you reach your goals.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Think about the time you want to put forth into lessons.