Indianapolis, IN Songwriting Lessons

a lot. I just believe if it starts to not be fun, what's the point? Music isn't just about perfect theory and note placement it's about enjoyment. That's why I tailor make every lesson specifically based on my student's goals. I have students that like a more traditional approach so I use standard method books with them. I also have students that want to learn how to play by ear so we use a less traditional method and I teach them chord structures and how to move around easily on their instrument. My favorite thing to teach is vocal lessons but I love teaching piano and guitar also.

*** Studio Equipment ***
The In-Studio lessons are taught on an upright piano or acoustic/electric guitar. Student should bring own guitar. No pets. Waiting room out front for parents.

*** Travel Equipment ***
They need their own instrument.

*** Specialties ***
I've performed at Carnegie Hall and I've had the opportunity to work with world renowned vocal coaches. I offer that as well as techniques that I've developed to help you reach your goals quickly and with great skill !

ich I walked away saying "Man, I never KNEW that!" and it's my goal for you have that experience, too. Whether its how to play that chord or write a melody, how to get the best sound out of those stomp boxes, or when genres like shoegazer and post-rock were invented and what they sound like... there's something to be learned in every lesson.

The most important benefit of taking lessons from me is my experience. I started teaching casually as a teenager and have followed every opportunity since. My passion for music has allowed me to teach private lessons (10+ years), middle school guitar class (including a guitar ensemble), and college-level music theory classes. Extensive experience in writing, recording, and performing has only helped that passion to grow. I've developed a method to blend theory with practice every step of the way, and make the journey fun!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Music stand, Guitar picks, Amplifier, 1/4" cable, Footstool, and paper hand-outs provided for Students.

Lounge area, Kitchen area, Restrooms,and Parking provided for Parents

*** Specialties ***
guitar, acoustic guitar, music, songwriting, classical guitar, electric guitar, music theory

so spread my abilities to work with Bass Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Piano, ukulele, and voice. I have many experiences with different genres such as American Folk Music, Jazz (Early to Fusion), and contemporary Rock/Pop, World Music, Christian/Worship/Catholic Liturgy, Rn'B, and Country music.

As an Music Educator, I have the strengths of being a distinguished musician and Professional educator which provides me with advanced knowledge in my field of study and interest, teaching for every age group from pre-school to Adult as well as influencing the fun, creativity, and expression of music no matter what the instrument.

*** Lesson Details ***
The music lessons will consist of a concise and strong education of their instrument as well as essential theory and history. I develop individual lesson plans for each student and subject, working on formative goals and objectives to work towards for every lesson and throughout the year. I look forward to being able to help students accomplish and enjoy their instrument, utilizing their interests and genres with a variety of texts and literature at many levels, looking to always expand my own collection to meet the needs of the students. I am comfortable with providing digital and paper materials as well as providing recordings and video studying resources. I know in my heart and mind that I have something to offer to any student at any level in my studio, and, I am equally as passionate about providing an honest atmosphere for evaluation and positive criticism. With every lesson I always encourage brief reflection over the practice, study, and instruction, responding to every critical juncture that comes along the way. Being a certified educator and music instructor, I know that respect, understanding, honesty, human emotion, communication, and professionalism are the most critical components of a healthy Teacher-Student relationship.

Over 3000 Lessons taught with Takelessons since 2010

*** Studio and Resources ***
I have the necessary tools to operate in and out of my studio. Within my workplace I always have my electric keyboard, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar, ukulele, music library, printer/scanner, recording equipment, full sound system with mixer amp, guitar amp, microphone and stand, tuner, music stands, iPad stand, and comfortable space and seating. I also have expanded my studio capabilities that is an entirely digitized database and curriculum.
I expect for the students to provide their own instrument so that they are able to practice at home. I operate on MAC OS and IPad systems that maximize the technological uses of my in home studio.
Be prepared to learn more than you ever anticipated as I provide many resources. I also push for supplemental music instruction within the lessons, adding basic training and music learning skills needed for accompaniment instruments such as the acoustic guitar, ukulele, and piano which allow for students to have a stronger understanding of their music.

related to the arts such as Mathematics and Science.

One of the most important aspects of playing Music is being able to Play by Ear. This has been a priceless gift that I have developed throughout my life and I encourage all musicians, young and old, to do the same. The use of simple Rhythmic Dictation and Ear Training exercises can do wonders for "picking out" Beats and Harmonies no matter what Genre we are interested in.

I attended music courses at The Boston School of Contemporary Music, Thomas Jefferson College (MI), and have a BA double majoring in Music Composition and English at Columbia College Chicago.

Besides touring internationally as a Guitarist and Saxophonist, I am a Songwriter. THIRD BORDER's "Sun of Water; Sea of Light" was selected to be nominated for the Grammy's as The Best Alternative Album of the Year in 2006. On this record, I played Guitar, Saxophone, sang Lead Vocal and wrote all Songs. So, if you are a songwriter, we can polish up your approach!

If you would like to learn how to compose a Solo, a Duet or Ensemble, I can get you started in a low-stress, one-step-at-a-time procedure. As a Composer, I have done Sound Design for Film, Dance, Spoken Word and Multi-media Performance - most notably with renowned poet Anne Carson and former members of The Merce Cunningham Dance Co. I am Composer and Conductor for New York City's first full-on Saxophone Orchestra; a 13-member ensemble.

I hope to talk to you soon!
Benjamin

*** Lesson Details ***
My teaching style is relaxed with a forte on Patience and Encouragement. Though I have specific expectations on what needs to be learned, I gear each lesson towards the student's wishes and their personal direction in Creativity. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced student, I can guide you wherever you are headed!

For Guitar (acoustic or electric), you will learn the fundamentals of Music Theory, Chord Structure, varied Strumming and Picking Techniques, and Scale Positions to travel from one part of the neck to the other. Any song you wish to learn, I can teach!

For Saxophone, you will learn proper Embouchure technique, Notation, Music Theory, and Scale Patterns for improvisation. Whether you are interested in a Classical, Blues, Funk or Jazz approach, I can help you find your own sound that is both personal and professional.

I teach 2nd year Piano and Drums/Percussion directing you into Intermediate level.

For those leaning toward the experimental genres, I am well-versed in the use of Electronics. Much can be accomplished with my lessons on Sound-Scape Improvisation either as 1 on 1 or Group Workshops.

*** Studio Equipment ***
At Home Studio: music stands, metronome, guitar amps, electric and acoustic guitars, guitar tablature, staff music paper, a scanner for weekly homework. I can also record and send MP3s of our lessons to review at home if you wish.

*** Travel Equipment ***
Students will need their own instrument, a mutually chosen music book to learn from, a metronome, and hopefully easy access to a keyboard (very helpful!)

*** Specialties ***
I am fluent in Rock genres, Blues, Beginning Jazz, Beginning Classical technique, Prepared Guitar, Electronics/Sound Art.

as gone on to play with a long list of different ensembles across many state lines.

At age 19 he moved to the San Francisco Bay Area and once there studied under virtuoso saxophonist Joshua Smith and master guitarist Andy Tran.

Kelly found a residency with a local San Jose group and did six months with The Craig Robinson Blues Band while he was gaining music students and slowly transitioning into a full-time music life. He also played with Lowfat an established Bay Area original dance band, was hired by the Darell Patrick Jazz Ensemble for private events and recorded for The Jake Makey Band before moving to Colorado in search of a higher chance of musical success paired with a lower cost of living.

In Fort Collins, CO Matthew sat in as a guest artist regularly with local jazz pianist Mark Sloniker at his residency at Jay's Bistro. Busking paid very well and helped keep the bills paid. Then Kelly could pursue playing 2 instruments in an original jam band The Hot Coal.

While in Fort Collins Kelly gave 6 months of guitar lessons to 2016 Scene Magazine coveree Elise Wunder to help her accomplish her performance goals. Today she travels the world playing her amazing original music.

In 2011 Matthew felt the need to return home. Knowing Austin is the real place to share the music and being from here, he rode his bicycle back here and eventually found the musical projects that he plays in today.

Continental Drift
&
Bourgeois Mystics

To hear Matthew's guitar playing and bass guitar approach visit his Soundcloud.

rtist I frequently take trips to Nashville for co-writing, recording, and meeting with record labels. I have written with well-known writers like Mia Fieldes from Hillsong, Tony Wood from Provident Label Group, Stu G from Delirious?, and Jon Steingard from Hawk Nelson. I love to mentor students who want to become effective, dynamic songwriters.

My personal passion is contemporary music but I firmly believe that great technique is essential to any and every style. I look forward to meeting you and helping you to become a better musician!

ety of songs, from classical to pop, crossing jazz, Brazilian and Latin tunes, american classicals, etc. Using sheets, chords, iPad/iphone, "play by ear", books or just improvising!
Add to your training elements of Music Theory, Harmony, Music History and Ear Training with interactive material online and books.
Creativity!!! Jam every class, learn to songwrite, to create your melodies, change chords, write lyrics and produce your songs! Acoustic and digital support, many tools to express your ideas, kids to adults!

FOR ONLINE CLASSES, I developed a great structure working with your ipad/ tablet/ phone/ computer, using Skype , FaceTime, Facebook, Zoom, and more, to work everywhere in the world. Ask me more about it!

ABOUT THE CLASSES:
I recommend starting with an online or in studio classes of 30 minutes. Ask me how and I help you setting everything for an amazing, affordable and comfortable class!
In home classes, minimum legth of 45min.
Want a longer class, double or mixed subjects like piano and singing? Let me know!
I can also work in groups, so invite your friends and family!

Any doubt or special case? Write me a message! I'll be happy to consider your request!

Las clases también pueden ser en ESPAÑOL y con el repertorio latino!

Ou se preferir, com a alegria de se falar PORTUGUÊS em aula!

FROM MY WEBSITE:

Professor Cândida L. B. is an inspiring world class musician, classically trained and rooted in Brazilian culture. Her artistic work mixes folkloric music, bossa nova, pop, latin and african music, jazz, and all styles of world music. After 15 years teaching in a University in Brazil and in the United States, now she also created a program in which she offers her experience as a music educator for all ages music students and from all over the world. Master in Piano Performance, Bachelor also in singing, composition, studies in music production and electronic music, sound therapy, special needs and coaching, Professor B. is a true educator and artist.

Her methodology consists of modern approach to music education and music therapy, that connects creativity, repertoire, technology and skill development. Choose your subject: piano, keyboard, jazz voice and singing, music theory, ear training, harmony, songwriting.

Also, engage in a warm community that shares music, shows, meetings and encouragement!

LANGUAGE

You choose to learn in Portuguese, Spanish or English. Practice music and a new language at the same time.

REPERTOIRE

Huge possibilities, many styles. Expertise on classical, Brazilian and Latin jazz, pop. Do what you like!

METHODOLOGY AND RESOURCES
You will have access to different books, CDs, videos, classes, of materials I prepared myself and that I buy from other instructors. Ill share the material that is good for you training as part of our methodology.

BACKGROUND

Ms. B combines her formal academic studies in University as an artist and educator with studies and certifications in Dalcroze, Linklater, improvisation, circle singing, music production, technology and especially her experience in studios and playing with musicians all over America. Special call to “O Passo” – a Brazilian methodology on rhythm and pitch, connecting body and voice to learn music, performance and reading. Fantastic!

ONLINE LESSONS

You can connect by Skype or you can also choose to use FaceTime or Google Hangout. There are easy instructions that you receive to make sure you are all set to start. You have the chance to record your class and you will receive a link to all the material we use in class. In tour or local, classes must go on!

IN NEW YORK

If you are in New York Area, come for class in one of the studios. We are at midtown west, in great locations and professional studios.

PRICES

You can choose between 30, 45, 60 and 90 minutes lessons. Combo choices of more than 1 subject – you can combine piano and singing, or singing and songwriting for example.

SPECIAL PROJECTS AND COMMUNITY

You will start making part of our special projects, that include shows, concerts, events, CDs, month challenges, gifts, and other surprises. Touring different cities, you will make part of a community that gets together to watch shows, to perform and to travel – our performances happen in different cities, including New York and Rio de Janeiro! If you are looking to explore the world, might be a good opportunity!

Once you sign up, you will be connected to our links.

Check my reviews and join us today!

rmance.

--Ear Training (any instrument, beginning to advanced)

--Arranging/Composition (any instrument, beginning to advanced

--Songwriting (any instrument, beginning to advanced)

--Piano lessons (beginning to intermediate)

*Since I charge the same rate for each of these subjects, many of my students request to split the lesson time into 2 or more subjects

If you have any questions about my specific lesson plans for a particular subject, please don't be afraid to shoot me an email!

Happy practicin'!