About
I teach classically with a spin to help learn harmonies and scales quickly. Develop a relationship with the instrument first. Be able to read sheet music and write your own tunes in just a few lessons. I am a performing musician with a ton of credentials including albums, radio plays, music videos and more. I can teach from the ground up.
I am willing and able to produce professional albums for students as well as music videos.
Inspiring people to build tools for coping with this wild world.
I am also a Registered Nurse. Teaching music feels similar to helping someone get over being sick.
Reviews
Matt B.
David B.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to get students comfortable on their instruments first. We build a relationship with the instrument before pulling out sheet music. I typically start by teaching scales and chords with classical finger positioning. We start with the easiest scales and build upon them. My goal is to make music a a fun tool for expressing oneself.
Once comfortable we can even produce your own album/music video.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I started piano when I was 8.
I started drums at 14.
I am happy to teach song writing and recording.
I have been recording for 12 years and in pro-studios for 7 years.
I am in a band currently performing live shows, receiving spins and interviews on college radio stations nationwide, and loaded with press reviews.
I have professionally recorded 4 albums and willing to do the same for my students.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
For the first lesson, I start at $30 for a full hour.
For children 10 years and younger I prefer start with the expectation of 30 minute lessons for $20. If they are still having fun and paying attention after the 30 minutes, I will extend to a full hour ($30). It is important for young students to not be turned away from music in reaction to too strict of lessons.
NOTE: one of my strongest students is a 9 year old and has done hour lessons from day one.
After trialing 4 lessons at this rate I increase to $40 for the full hour and $30 for the half.
How did you get started teaching?
I'm a registered nurse and musician. I inspired a friends kid to play piano and drums and it felt incredible--Just as good as healing the ill when I work in hospitals. So, I marketed to more friends, gained more students, and feel even more inspired than ever.
What types of students have you worked with?
Piano- Ages 8 to 35 years. Beginner and Intermediate level students.
Drums - Beginner and Intermediate level students.
Vocals/Lyrics- Beginner and Intermediate level students
Song Writing/Recording- Beginner and Intermediate level students
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Austin City Limits Music Festival
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Have fun! It takes work but it's called "playing" music for a reason. There will be little frustrating puzzles to figure out but it will be fun and rewarding. Don't get stuck taking lessons from a boogar with a bad attitude. Its so important to love the privilage of making music. Don't hang out with a teacher you don't enjoy, respect, and draw inspiration from.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What kinds of music do you the most?
What makes you want to play music?
Do you want to make your own music?
What is the scariest thing to you about getting started?