Lesson Details
Songwriting
- Levels Taught:
- Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
My teaching philosophy includes an integrated method of intellectual and creative development. It is truly unfortunate that so often music theory is presented as a mere collection of naming systems and rules. To me, understanding music with the mind is a key ingredient to becoming an effective and inspired artist. In music lessons, I teach not just how to talk about music but the fascinating complexity of how music operates - the fundamental principles that illuminate the translation of sound into thoughts and emotional expression.
But musical creativity can't be a matter of only intellectualization either! Through a process of working on projects, receiving feedback, and learning key strategies for creating more of what you want in your music, we will dive head first into the art of creating original music. Depending on your goals, I can also incorporate instruction on ear training, arranging, orchestration, and music production (technology). And finally, together we will explore the deep introspective questions of what you want to express in your music and the vast constellation of possibilities to choose from.
I offer instruction in a variety of styles ranging from classical to jazz to rock to electronic. While providing a broad, synergistic foundation in musical skills and understanding, I also encourage students to pursue their unique interests and inspirations. On the first lesson with a new student, I'll always go over the options for potential areas of study and work with the student to develop an appropriate course of study customized to their needs and interests.
Ryan teaches
About
- Teaches students:
- Ages 5+
- Teaching since:
- 2015
Ryan is a composer, improviser, author, music theorist, pianist, music producer, and teacher. He has won awards for his original music, such as his first place award for Best Original Film Score in the Montgomery County Film Festival in 2011. He also has performed in prestigious venues like the Takoma Park Jazz Festival and the Siemens Competition Awards Ceremony hosted in the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium.
Ryan writes and performs in a variety of styles ranging from classical to jazz to electronic. He has experience writing music for large ensembles such as orchestras and jazz big bands. As a music producer, he has worked with big and small groups of musicians alike in professional-level recording studio environments. His expertise also extends to the mixing, mastering, and synthesis applications of music technology that have become so central to the modern music industry.
Ryan holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Berklee College of Music in Contemporary Writing and Production. He was accepted in 2013 with a scholarship and finished the four-year program only two and half years later. He has studied with great teachers such as the amazing composer and concert pianist Jeffrey Chappell. He has also studied guitar performance on the side and experiments with different instruments whenever he can. In recent years, Ryan has focused on teaching workshops, classes for small groups, private lessons, and on creating his new book The Theory and Creation of Music.
In addition to his musical pursuits, Ryan also has a profound passion for self-growth, psychology, and spirituality. He is well-versed in a number of different self-development practices including Vipassana meditation, circling, and re-evaluation co-counseling. Complementing his practical experience, he has also developed a deep understanding of related intellectual fields like integral theory, developmental psychology, and eastern philosophy. Ryan plans to write his next book on his newly created system of self-growth: Adoga.
Education
Bachelor of Music Degree in Contemporary Writing and Production
Sep 2013 - Aug 2015Awards
Best Original Film Score
May 2011Photos & Videos
4 Reviews
Write a ReviewExcellent teacher. My son was not even sure if he wants to do piano but only after first class he is super excited and looking forward to future lessons.
It was my 5th class today and Ryan has been very patient, understanding and fun. He makes it easy like learning from a friend! Thank you Ryan.
We had our first lesson, went very well. Maybe by summer we'll look into making lessons more frequent. He works very well with our 6 year old.
Ryan has a passion for creating and playing music that he clearly wants to share with those new to the art as well as those with experience. His joy is greatest when he is able to foster musical connections for others and help them grow in their own enthusiasm and understanding. Ryan is a an excellent teacher; patient and kind. If you are looking for a task master, Ryan is not your guy. But if you are looking for someone who can spark passion and a deeper appreciation for the craft of creating and playing music, there is no better person I can recommend.
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