Cheltenham, PA Music Theory Lessons

Lessons are specifically tailored to each student based on ability level, learning style, and goals. Younger children will focus more on technique and fun, but in every lesson it is my goal for my students to grow their own musical sensibilities. Above all, I love sharing with my students the joy of becoming a better musician.

A thorough understanding of music theory is essential for any student who wants to reach their full potential as a musician. Lesson plans are tailored to fit the student's specific intentions, whether you just want a basic understanding of core concepts or you're preparing for college auditions. Subjects range from early classical foundations to serialism and modern music and even contemporary pop. Theory concepts are applied to the student's instrument as well. All ranges of skill level are welcomed.

Music Theory is essential for a well-rounded musician to grasp. Not only should a musician know what sounds good, but why it sounds good. Simple theory includes note names, reading music, melody, and rhythm. Complex theory includes how extended chord structures relate to each other, Serialism, and harmonization.

Vince was first introduced to music theory when he began playing trumpet and reading music. He learned the basics such as notes, scales, triads, key signatures, and time signatures, from the perspective as a performer. Later (especially when he started studying guitar and piano) Vince studied intervals, more exotic scales, and chord progressions. At college and graduate school, he formally studied advanced music theory as applied to tonal harmony, twentieth century music, and jazz.

Often, theories are built upon other theories and thus support each other. Vince can teach the basics and some of the most advanced theoretical concepts to any musician regardless of ...

Lessons are designed to teach music through sight-singing melodies and reading rhythms. Learning to read music is not very difficult if one organizes their time and practices certain exercises. These skills will help one learn songs more quickly and improve one's musical ears.

From understanding the basis of cadences through the cycle of fifths, to learning about chord substitutions and guide-tones for jazz, a strong knowledge of music theory is important for the composer, improvisor, and performer alike.

I love teaching. I go into every lesson with the belief that the student is there to learn; if they weren't interested in learning, they wouldn't be there. Because I have always had diverse musical interests, I create a stress-free atmosphere for my students by allowing them to pursue whatever avenues of music interest them. My degrees may be in Jazz Studies and Performance, but I have extensive experience with Classical and Popular music; I provide a unique perspective and enthusiasm to every student.

An understanding of music theory is at the root of all reading and understanding of music. Lessons in music theory will address the specific goals and genre interest of the student. Anything from how to read jazz chords to understanding the complexities of Beethoven can be covered.

Understanding music theory is an invaluable tool that will not only help you to learn new material more quickly and easily, but will also help you to communicate more effectively with other musicians. While my formal training is in classical piano, most of my professional work is as a songwriter performing pop and rock material. I will help you to connect theory to the music you're learning and can also teach practical musicianship skills, such as writing lead sheets or charts.

The theory department at Oberlin conservatory is top notch. During my time there I was able to take courses in functional harmony, voice leading, atonal harmony, serial music, emotion in music, the visible in music, and performance and analysis. I emphasize practical theory in my lessons and always make sure the student knows how to apply this information to a musical end. I use approved collegiate level texts in my teaching.