Teaches online
Teaches all skill levels
Age: 5+
Speaks Spanish
Teaching since 2012
MM Composition
About James L.
5.0
(4)
As a composer, jazz and classical pianist, and freelance arranger, James has a diverse musical background which inspires his teaching of classical and jazz piano, improvisation and composition. Holding a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from the University of Indianapolis and a Master of Music in Composition from the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music (CCM), he offers a creative approach to learning aimed at creating strong technique and encouraging personal expression. With a vast repertory spanning many styles, and including personal arrangements for students, James has resounding success with adults and beginners alike, guiding each student on their personal musical path to success.
James has experience working with all levels and ages, and advanced students have won awards, recorded on the radio, and gone to study music at schools such as Berklee College of Music. Understanding the unique dynamics that each student brings, James’ creative approach aims to customize each method tailored towards the student’s age, background, experience, and tastes. James frequently writes personalized arrangements for students! Incorporating improvisation and composition into his lessons results in many students writing and performing their first compositions. Students also learn how to expand on materials and make their own arrangements!
As an active member of MTNA, James encourages students to perform at MTNA events and competitions, and along with 2 annual studio recitals, advocates for students to perform as much as possible. James’ students regularly perform in church services, school choirs and bands, and outside ensembles, some making performance videos to share on social media. James loves introducing students to new music, and encourages students to develop strong, lifelong listening skills while developing a more intimate relationship with sound.
Instructor details
ReviewsWrite a review
5
100%
4
0%
3
0%
2
0%
1
0%
5.0
4 Reviews
Kevin
Teacher's studio
Helped me tremendously on not only what to practice but how to practice for maximum improvement. He also provided some great resources.
Posted Oct 15, 2022
Chloe
Student's home
He is incredible! So professional and provided lots of resources for me to learn even during covid. He taught me so much during our first lesson that he explained so well! 10/10 would recommend.
Posted Aug 28, 2020
Tara Dozet
Online
Wonderful experience! Great teacher! Taught me a lot about arrangement and helped me with a couple of my own compositions! I felt great energy and passion from James. Great teacher, great course! I recommend James to anyone who wants to learn and to advance in composition and arrangement.
Posted Aug 19, 2020
Experience
Private Piano Instructor
Jan, 2012 - PresentFreelance
Adjunct Professor
May, 2019 - Aug, 2019IvyTech Community College
Education
BM Piano Performance
Aug, 2013 - Dec, 2016University of Indianapolis
MM Composition
Aug, 2017 - May, 2019CCM
Languages
Spanish
Limited Proficiency
James Gallery
Instructor details
Private Lessons
- 1:1 lessons with a trusted instructor
- 300+ subjects to choose from
- Meet online or in person
- Free on-demand videos and articles