Laura K. TakeLessons Instructor music, trumpet, piano, composition, theory, arranging, improvisation Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY

EDUCATION:
I have a Bachelor of Music, B.Mus (in jazz trumpet) and a Master of Music Studies, M.Mus (composition) both from the QLD Conservatorium of Music in Brisbane, Australia.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
I have taught private music lessons to people of all ages since 2001. I am a freelance musician and composer living in Brooklyn, NY. I am a published Author of four music education books with audio CD’s.
Music Fundamentals, Music Harmony, Music Expression & Improvisation. www.kbs.com.au/education

2008 NY Foundation for the Arts Fellow in Music Composition

•Commissioned by “Women’s Work” Concert Series, to compose for septet, NYC.
•Performed with the Italian Women’s Jazz Orchestra, Blue Note Jazz Club, NYC.
•Leader of a Quintet performing original music regularly in NYC.

2007  •Commissioned by Branford Marsalis, to arrange the music of Gil Evans, for    performance by the Branford Marsalis Septet, The Allen Room, JALC, New York.
•Arranged two full shows for high school marching bands in Omaha, Nebraska.

2006  •Commissioned by JALC, to arrange two pieces for big band performed by Wynton Marsalis & the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, featuring Jeff “Tain” Watts. NYC.

•Composed and performed the score for independent short film “A Little Silence”
•Commissioned arranger for Eric Revis (North Texas State University)

04-07    •Participant in the BMI Jazz Composers Workshop, NYC led by Jim McNeely.

Every student has a different relationship to music and needs a unique approach. I enjoy finding a way to make each lesson enjoyable and relevant so that making music is a part of your life and not a task.

I have an easy approach to learning about the theory of music and I also value making music with your ears and improvising. I teach popular, jazz and classical music, jazz harmony, improvisation and composition.

jazz, kids

music, trumpet, piano, composition, theory, arranging, improvisation

“Laura called me a few weeks ago to come and hear her band in New York.  I went and was astounded by the quality, uniqueness, and creativity of both her writing and playing. 
I quickly asked if I could take a lesson with her, so we plan to exchange ideas.   Laura is a brilliant and creative and unique musician both in her writing and playing. She has my highest recommendation. You should hear her.”  Lew Soloff