Hubbard, OR Music Theory Lessons

with patience and persistence, if you do the work, there will be results that can be measured, and you will achieve success!

*** Studio Equipment ***
I provide an amplifier for guitar and bass students, and have a piano for piano students.

*** Specialties ***
Having played many styles over the years, I am able to play in most of the popular forms. All music is based on the same fundamental things. It's how they are used that defines a given style.

Royal Schools of Music and prepare them for one to two exams a year. The exams test playing abilities on 3 songs plus scales, arpeggios, ear training and music theory. Students that pass get a beautiful certificate for each level, grades 1 to 8.

I earned my music degree from Portland State University in 2006, graduating with honors. In 1996 I won two Medals of Distinction for violin performance and music theory and then in 2001 I received a Merit Award from the Associated Board of the Royal School of Music, London, England for viola performance. I've been blessed to be able to perform in a variety of ensembles and genres such as musical theater pit orchestras, string quartets, the Vancouver Symphony, and rock, jazz, tango, Middle Eastern and blue grass/folk bands.

My biggest thrill is to be able to transmit culture to the younger generation through music.

*** Lesson Details ***
I offer the following for my violin, viola, cello, bass and piano students. Most of all, it is the joy of music making that I want to share with my students.

Private and group lessons
Two recitals a year
Special performance opportunities throughout the year
Classical, jazz, fiddle, rock, tango, sacred, Celtic, folk
Music theory
Customized lesson plans using various methods old and new

I endeavor to provide a fun, non intimidating environment for students while motivating them to achieve their highest potential by providing many performance opportunities throughout the year. Some of my students have appeared as special guests with my band, Mango Nights.

Included with weekly private lessons are once a month group lessons where students can learn essential ensemble skills and have fun meeting other students.

Beginning students learn several simple songs that teach great tone and rhythm using classical, folk, blues, rock, ragtime, bluegrass. Students learn concepts such as syncopation, rhythm, note reading, articulations, dynamics, asymmetrical time meters and and more. Each book comes with a CD with piano accompaniment which makes practicing at home enjoyable.

Students are gradually introduced to scales, arpeggios, music theory, ear training and sight reading. All this works together to produce "the complete musician". The complete musician is a person who has excellent rhythm, pitch, note reading skills and creativity, a person who can enjoy and appreciate music in it's various forms over a lifetime whether it be for personal enjoyment or as a career.

For more serious students who have the goal of auditioning for university scholarships, top youth orchestras or becoming a professional musician, an accelerated intensive course is available in partnership with the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music. In this program, the student is prepared for a once a year rigorous exam requiring the playing of select pieces, scales and arpeggios, sight reading and ear training. The candidate performs for the visiting Associated Board Examiner from London England and is graded on a point system. Upon passing the student receives a beautiful certificate and additional awards for high scores. Once a year at a separate time, a written exam for music theory is taken. The exams are graded 1 to 8 and can be classical or jazz depending on the candidate's choice.

*** Studio Equipment ***
electric piano, separate room for lessons, off street parking,
Convenient close in location

*** Travel Equipment ***
Small amp, Mac laptop and metronome.

*** Specialties ***
I teach many styles and genres such as Classical, Folk, Bluegrass, Celtic, Rock, Jazz, Tango and Middle Eastern.

Ensemble playing with other students.

Professional opportunities playing for weddings and other events.

ning things they like. I always ask students what they are listening to and what they want to learn, after all, it's their lesson. But I always come back around to emphasizing how and why things work and how a student can use the lesson to learn on their own. Students should expect to be very hands on, to bring lots of questions, to expect a lot, to work hard and have some fun in the process. While it's not rocket science, its music and music is fun but it is also a vast wild wilderness. I want you to be able to play your heart out but also have a good idea of musical knowledge that can help you grow way beyond. I also incorporate various ideas to further learning as appropriate to what you are trying to accomplish including recording, video and use of backing tracks, as just a couple examples.

*** Studio Equipment ***
I have a variety of gear as needed to complement the lesson, the student should provide their own instrument. If you need help picking one out, I can do that. Getting the right instrument that you are comfortable with is important. There are lots of options out there and instruments have never been more affordable.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I can provide all my own equipment, student should have at least a guitar

*** Specialties ***
I usually use a system based on my assessment of the student's goals and current ability. With the guitar, that will usually include reference to CAGED and some music theory although I don't usually call it that.

c, blues, jazz, and original compositions. Before devoting himself to music full time, he worked for 8 years as a radio announcer on WUFT-FM Gainesville hosting shows such as "Nothing but the Blues", "Montage" (acoustic jazz), and "Musica Antiqua" (Renaissance and Medieval).

Chuck has taught students of all ages and skill levels in piano, guitar, organ, flute, digital keyboards, recorder, and ukulele. He's also a multi-faceted composer whose instrumental pieces are infused with elements of classical, blues, and jazz styles.

Chuck's teaching philosophy: "In my 25 years of teaching I’ve found that everyone learns in different ways and at different rates of progress, so each of my students is treated as a unique individual. I try to get to know my students in the first few lessons so I can be more sensitive to their personalities. This helps me choose the best teaching approach for them. From the very first lesson I create a relaxed setting so students feel no apprehension, especially when trying something new. This allows them to feel free to take chances and experience playing music as something enjoyable, not a life or death situation! The biggest measure of my effectiveness as a teacher is when my students embrace new challenges and the opportunity to improve".

*** Lesson Details ***
My primary goal as a teacher is to present musical material in a way that keeps students excited about what they are learning. Even with absolute beginners, I will have a student playing actual songs that they are interested in as quickly as possible. Along the way I include fundamentals such as scales, strength-building exercises, rudiments of theory, and ear training. Some of the method books I use include the Alfred and Faber and Faber series, and Hanon's The Virtuoso Pianist, among many others. These materials are always supplemented with arrangements and transcriptions of popular songs and classical pieces, along with original exercises designed to teach specific styles and techniques. I also use interactive music websites to introduce students to concepts of music theory. The styles that I cover include classical, rock, jazz, and blues. As students progress in their creativity, I also introduce them to composition and improvisation.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Kawai K50 upright piano, music playback devices, Hammond C3 organ, multiple keyboards/synthesizers, acoustic and electric guitars, amplifiers, computer recording equipment; parents are encouraged to sit in on lessons.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I don't provide any specific equipment. Piano students should have either a well-tuned piano or full-sized weighted-key digital keyboard (Casio Privia, for example). Guitar students should have a well set up electric or acoustic guitar and an amplifier (for an electric guitar).

*** Specialties ***
I teach students of all ages and skill levels. The styles that I cover include classical, rock, jazz, and blues. I also teacher recording techniques using computer software including Ableton Live, Reason, and Pro Tools.

programs which introduce children to music and theater in schools.   I was adjunct faculty at the College of St. Benedict/St. John’s University and local music studios as well as maintaining my private teaching practice.

*** Lesson Details ***
I am persistent and positive! Working and performing with singers and master teachers has helped me to be a resourceful teacher who understands the process of becoming a singer. I believe that a sense of fun and play helps you to accomplish your goals quickly.  For beginners you will learn how the voice works and how to care for and develop your instrument, I recommend adults take 45" - 1 hour lessons weekly for skill building. The price of lessons DECREASES by 10% after each 5 lesson purchased for the first 15 lessons. Studio policy is located at VaaraMusic.com. We will choose music that interests you and helps to build your voice starting with basics before moving to more complex and challenging music. Understanding music theory and sight-reading will help you get the most out of your singing. After 3 - 6 months you should have a good command of breathing and an understanding of how to sing with an expressive tone.For the advanced student, I can help you work on trouble spots and give you tools to help with the changes that voices naturally go through.  I look forward to giving you my full focus and celebrating your growth and accomplishments!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Condo w/ open area with piano. Visitor's parking lot w/ seating in studio for parents to listen. Parents with younger siblings can use play areas outside.
Basic library of vocal music, giving the student a way to sample different kinds of songs before purchasing books or downloading songs on their own. Music stand, iPhone plug-in/Amp for accompaniments and examples you want me to hear.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide a basic library of vocal music at my home studio and will bring targeted books with me. Students should print out their favorite popular songs from such services as Music Notes website.
I expect my students to provide a keyboard, music stand and notebook as well as a low distraction environment.

*** Specialties ***
As an opera and musical theater, Oratorio and church singer, I help singers of all levels improve within their genre from popular music to opera. A good singing technique will help performers in any style stay healthy and enjoy an expressive singing instrument.

the parts!

I've been teaching piano for 20+ years now, and I love partnering with students to help them grow musically and realize their dreams. Some of my students have gone on to be professionals or teachers, and some are playing the music they love with their friends. Others are playing in their churches or in bands, and some play simply for personal enjoyment.

If we get the opportunity to work together, you (or your child) will discover that I am patient and encouraging. My desire is to bring your musical goals into focus through education and creative participation.

What is your dream? Playing classical, rock, playing in a band, writing your own music? I'd love to help you realize that dream!

*** Lesson Details ***
I believe piano instruction should be fun and casual, yet challenging and inspiring. In our lessons, you'll learn proper technique, sight-reading, improvising, and the music theory behind it. I utilize popular piano methods and contribute additional resources, and I design lessons to help you reach your music goals, whether your dream is to play with others, write your own music, or play your favorites for personal enjoyment. You'll explore many music genres, from classical to rock to jazz, including a large dose of your preferred styles. If you play an electronic keyboard, we'll incorporate features of your instrument to increase your rhythm and song-writing skills. Aspiring songwriters can learn skills like chart writing and computer notation. You'll learn how technology--even your smart phone--can help!

The student is responsible to purchase required books--usually lesson and theory, and occasionally a recital book. These usually cost between 5 and 7 dollars each and can be purchased locally. Bring lined paper with you for your lesson notes. I'll supply staff paper, music and any additional lesson materials, as needed. I will encourage you to purchase a metronome (the musician's friend) if you do not have an instrument with rhythms or metronome.

*** Studio Equipment ***
I teach both at students' homes (on your instrument) or at my home, where I have a Yamaha CP70 electric grand piano. The lessons are in the front living room, where seating is available and parents are welcome to observe the lesson. I have a laptop with Sibelius Notation and YouTube at the ready, as well as a mic, mixer and speakers, should they be needed. There may even be a studio cat nearby to inspire you!

*** Travel Equipment ***
If lessons are at your home, it is important that you have a practice instrument, which we will use in our lessons. If you need to purchase a piano or are exploring the world of electronic keyboards, I can help you with the many choices available and recommend instruments in your price range. I can also help you become familiar with your keyboard and those features that will be useful to you.

*** Specialties ***
For individual lessons, I prefer using the Alfred Method (beginning through intermediate), and have also used the Bastien method, and some others. I teach both sight-reading and/or improvisational skills, along with musical theory, according to the student's needs and goals. I'm comfortable in multiple styles (classical, pop, rock, folk, some jazz and blues).

e but at the same time I am asking the students to give their best effort. Setting frequent goals in form of group classes and recitals keeps us in full sail and teach us to enjoy the act of playing both alone and in front of friendly audience.
I teach both classical and Suzuki methods. I like to keep my students musically well fed and encourage exploring music reading and music theory next to practical skills. I stir my students toward high standard personal level in their studies, an ingredient from Finnish cultural climate.

*** Specialties ***
Suzuki method and classical method, fiddling, beginning jazz, improvising

Bryan Specializes in the guitar and Bass Guitar; however, he is proficient in piano and drums as well. His interests range from simply perfecting the art of guitar playing, to composing modern music for entire bands. Additionally, Bryan's expertise extends into the technological side of recording and producing music. Thorough knowledge of popular computer programs allows Bryan to complete almost any music related task.

Bryan has been teaching private lessons for the past 10 years.

*** Lesson Details ***
I am an incredibly patient teacher with only one goal in mind: help the student progress steadily! For this reason, every students lessons will be different. However, a typical lesson will aim to improve on 4 basic categories... Guitar technique and dexterity, Music Theory / Improvisation, Learning students favorite Songs, and Personal projects. Personal projects can range from writing songs, to recording songs, or to learning the basics of other instruments.

As a lifetime musician I have a very good idea of what works for most students. However, my goal is to be YOUR teacher, and I will focus on whatever it is that interests you the most!

*** Studio Equipment ***
My studio is made up of high quality equipment. It currently includes electric guitars, Acoustic guitars, BASS Guitars, baritone guitars, a piano, Mac computers and a Professional PA system. There is also a ton of peripheral equipment including amplifiers, effects pedals, a Drum machine and stereo equipment.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I can Provide Everything for Guitar players. I recommend an amplifier, tuner and a cable.

*** Specialties ***
I am particularly proficient in Rock Guitar and Music Theory. I specialize in songwriting as an application of Music Theory.

er sung in the shower and just want to get more comfortable using their own voice for fun. I also specialize in teaching music theory (including how to read music, rhythm practice, and harmony), playing an instrument and singing at the same time, and songwriting coaching. I degree in music from Brown University, have been a professional, performing musician for 12 years, and have been teaching private lessons and classes for 8 years.

For those in bands: I specialize in harmony and can do consultation sessions with you and/or your band to help with blending, finding harmonies that work for your respective vocal ranges and for the flow of the song, and teaching skills for finding and building harmonies.

MATH: As a middle and high school student, I didn't believe I was "good" at math. It wasn't until I was an adult and was hired as a math tutor - and later promoted to Assistant Director - of a tutoring company that I realized that was a belief that had held me back. Many kids and young adults struggle with confidence around math, and having had experience with that myself I use tools that help meet students where they're at and support them in building enthusiasm for math and confidence in themselves. In addition to providing tangible math skills (I have not only been tutoring Algebra, Geometry, SAT prep, elementary and middle school math for 5 years, but have also helped run a math tutoring company in which I built year-long curricula for grades K-12), I help students feel that math is within their grasp and can be approached with curiosity rather than fear and low self-esteem.