Piano Lessons & Classes in Downtown Mercer Island

er 2019 (electro/synth-based funky pop music with a hint of nostalgia)
**I taught jazz piano and voice lessons for four years at NYU and also through the New York Jazz Academy and Brooklyn Music Factory, from beginning to advanced, classical, pop or jazz -- and I teach rock bands how to learn music by ear and have fun playing with other people! I have also been teaching privately (independent home studio) since 2007.
**I organize and teach vocal workshop classes, where singers can learn how to work with a band.
**I also organize and teach songwriting classes, where you can learn how to get into writing songs and performing or recording your own music, either as a solo artist, or with a band!
**I joined the Cornish College of the Arts adjunct jazz faculty in Spring 2015! I teach private lessons in voice, piano, and songwriting, Piano classes (Piano I, II, III, IV), The Art of Songwriting class, Vocal Standards Class, Ear Training I & II, and in the past I also taught a vocal anatomy/production/professionalism class called VOX: MIND/BODY. I also put together showcases each semester for my private students to perform their music at local clubs/venues in downtown Seattle.

I moved back to Seattle in April 2014 after being in NYC for four years -- completing my Master of Music degree (NYU), living, teaching, and performing in Brooklyn and Manhattan. NYC was amazing, and I'd love to share with you all of the cool things I picked up during my time there. From 2005-2010, I lived in Seattle and taught music lessons. I graduated from Cornish College of the Arts in Jazz Performance (voice) and performed a lot around Seattle-- from jazz clubs to concert halls-- performing pop, rock, soul, jazz and even working in a Steely Dan Tribute Band!! (your parents might appreciate that more than you do). I actually still perform actively with the Steely Dan tribute band (Nearly Dan), and we perform at some of the premier venues in Seattle, such as Jazz Alley and the Triple Door.

More than anything, I'm fascinated by the different ways that students learn and always love figuring out what kind of learning works best for YOU.

*** Lesson Details ***
I love watching my students progress and enjoy their music, no matter what style they enjoy or what level they are. I work with students to pick out music that they'll enjoy working on-- it's always more fun to learn songs you love!
I'm a pretty laid back teacher, but I work to inspire my students to try their hardest and do the best that they can do. I will provide you will the exercises, materials, and right level of songs to help you meet your goals, and together we can create a plan for our lessons.

In our lessons we will cover a variety of topics, including:

--Strong, Healthy TECHNIQUE so that you can gain a command of your instrument and play or sing whatever you choose. Through various EXERCISES you will develop strength, control, musicianship, and good habits.
(Vocalists:)
It is important to develop a healthy technique so that you can sing whatever you want without getting fatigued or injuring your voice. We'll work on developing strong technique and finding your own unique SOUND-- we'll choose music that is right for your vocal style and music that YOU connect with so you can really express yourself.
(Pianists):
No matter whether you want to play classical, pop, or jazz, you'll want your fingers to be strong and agile enough to get the sound that you want out of the instrument. With good technique you can play anything!

--Rhythm, subdivision, and groove

--Ear-training & Music Theory (chord qualities, pitch matching, easy transcription)

--Building your REPERTOIRE so that you have songs to play, and discussing techniques specific to each style of music you study

--Arranging or Communicating with a band (if that is something which interests you)

--Performance considerations.... developing confidence and personal expression!

My goal is to inspire students to play their instruments (or sing!), develop good habits and encourage healthy curiosity..... but most of all to LOVE playing music!

*** Studio Equipment ***
full music room with 88 f/w keyboard with music stand, amp, microphone (if applicable), acoustic guitar, seating for parents.

I will provide lesson plans and corresponding handouts, exercises, examples, etc. If the student is taking piano lessons they should have access to a keyboard or piano at home. I also have a vocal microphone & amp to work on microphone technique.

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in jazz/pop piano and voice, and have a strong background in classical and jazz theory and technique. I typically design curricula which include technical exercises from my classical background and then focus stylistically on the genre that the student is interested in. I have extensive experience both performing and teaching in many jazz, pop, rock and soul styles-- I try to help the student find their unique voice while establishing a strong foundation of healthy technique.

onderfully packed with performance for Seattle Opera. I just closed out a 78 performance run of CINDERELLA IN SPAIN where I sang the role of CINDERELLA and was even on the poster! I also performed the roles for the Seattle Opera preview performances of GRETEL in HANSEL UND GRETEL, VIOLETTA in LA TRAVIATA, KATYA in KATYA KABANOVA, and QUEEN OF THE NIGHT in MAGIC FLUTE. I made my Seattle Opera debut singing ALITSA and RACCOON in their touring production of "OUR EARTH", as well as performing on the mainstage in many productions. My upcoming performances include singing in the Seattle Opera kick off to the season SUMMERFEST in July; and OLYMPIA in LES CONTES D'HOFFMANN with Pacific Northwest Opera. My other roles include ALKANDRE in PENELOPE with Vespertine Opera in Seattle, WA; FRASQUITA in CARMEN with OperaBend in Bend, Oregon and Pacific Northwest Opera; and SUSANNA in LE NOZZE DI FIGARO with the Seattle Opera Guild. I also made my international debut in December 2014 singing GRETEL in HANSEL UND GRETEL with Opera Mariposa in Vancouver, BC. I have also been the featured soloist as "Christine" in Ten Grand's Phantom of the Opera at Benaroya Hall in Seattle, WA, and many lead roles in both opera and musical theatre: such as Semele (Semele), Marie (La Fille du Regiment), Gretel (Hansel und Gretel), Countess Ceprano and Gilda (Rigoletto), Blondchen (Die Entfuehrung aus dem Serail), Maria (West Side Story), La Fee (Cendrillon), Sarah Brown (Guys and Dolls), Cathy (The Last 5 Years), Rosina (Barber of Seville), and more! I have also been part of jazz ensembles, and won the Battle of the Bands at Indiana University with a rock group! I am proud to have won the Seattle Opera Guild/Opera Plus Young Artist Scholarship Award for the 2015/2016 season, the Encouragement Award in the Metropolitan Opera National Council District Auditions, First Place in the National Classical Singers Competition, the C.M. Gerber Scholarship, Music Dean's Scholarship, Music Faculty Award, First Place at Washington State Solo and Ensemble Competitions, First Place in the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) National Competitions, and many more!

Teaching brings me such joy! To share the love of music and to educate the musicians of tomorrow is both gratifying and inspiring. I have been teaching since 2005 and provide a fun and focused learning experience where there are no "wrong" questions, and everybody's unique voice is celebrated! Many of my students have gone on to study music in college, and have landed lead roles in musical theatre, choir solos, All State and All Northwest choirs, and won awards in Classical competitions.

In my spare time, I like to hike, eat good food, and spend time with family and friends!

*** Lesson Details ***
My studio provides musical knowledge through private lessons including healthy vocal technique, basic understanding of music theory, and basic piano skills. I encourage a fun and focused environment. Come ready to learn, and let's make music!

A typical lesson will include vocalises that detail proper technique, some ear training work, some music theory training, and will be followed by repertoire. During this time, students will learn how to produce clear and authentic diction (English and other languages), breath management, phrase shaping, smooth transitions between higher and lower pitches, stylistic ornamentation, as well as dramatic involvement of the piece.

Students will learn the importance of the foundations of breath support, and how to create a healthy sound for any genre while keeping the unique qualities of their own voice-- no cookie-cutter singers here! Students will also learn how to read music, practice effectively, perform authentically, and take care of their delicate instrument for a lifetime of singing!

While Skype is a marvelous tool that has revolutionized the world of teaching, nothing can replicate natural acoustics. In-studio lessons are suggested for a clearer and more personable lesson.
**Skype lessons are reserved for long distance students only**

STUDIO ABSENCE and CANCELLATION POLICIES:
Regularly scheduled and attended lessons are the best way to see positive changes in your voice! The smooth running of the Studio Schedule helps make that happen. Therefore, missing lessons is discouraged and make up lessons/cancellations are not given in the Studio unless:
- I have had a performance or rehearsal that conflicts with our lesson time and cannot have the lesson as scheduled. If this occurs, I will inform you of the event as soon as possible and give you the option of a make up lesson or cancelling the lesson.
- Notices of foreseen cancellations (family vacations, religious holidays, school functions, special occasions etc.) are eligible for rescheduling or cancellation if given before the first lesson of the month.
- Of course, life can throw us for a loop! Illness, emergencies, and unforeseen events may possibly be given make ups or cancellations and will be determined at the Studio's discretion. (In the matter of illness: standard procedure is that if the student can attend work/school, they should come to their lesson. A cold can easily be worked around. If the voice is affected (for singing students), Studio time can still be used to work on ear training, music theory, music history, etc.)

All other absences will result in the lesson being marked as "missed". A hard copy of the Studio Policies and further details will be given to the student at the first lesson. Please feel free to ask any questions or clarifications.

*** Studio Equipment ***
The studio lessons take place in a designated area of my home. The room includes seating for parents to observe lessons as well as a weighted keyboard (88 keys), music stand, desk, and materials. No pets. Lots of street parking is available. Shopping and coffee/food located within walking distance.

*** Specialties ***
Specialties: Classical/Opera
Other styles and genres: Musical Theatre, Jazz, Pop, and Rock.

s available on Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon, etc.

Dan holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science from Uppsala University (Sweden). Dan has won teaching awards for five consecutive years, including the "Tacoma Best Vocal Coach 2019" (see photos). He is the director of Tacoma Gospel Choir and Tacoma Chancel Choir, as well as Roar Children's Choir.

With Dan, you will receive unparalleled, professional, and masterful classes. Do not miss this opportunity to learn from an award-winning expert in his field. Allow me to take you to the next level, whether you are a beginner or an experienced virtuoso.

I look forward to guiding you on your educational journey! Lessons are offered either in my home studio in Tacoma, WA, *or* I can teach you through live, online private video lessons.

nd consideration. Proper hydration is essential. They are also muscles that need strengthening exercises and time for them to change. This will improve your vocal endurance and range. As a highly trained voice teacher, I can hear if the vocal folds are behaving in a healthy and efficient manner. It is essential that your teacher understand how to care for these delicate components of the human voice.

* Vocal resonance is how opera singers are heard without amplification. It can be enhanced through awareness and coordination of the various portions of the vocal tract. Using this natural resonance will make singing in any style more comfortable.

*The most important part of the singing is emotion. Anyone can sing words, but if you don't know what they mean or how to express them they become nothing but white noise.

*Selecting the perfect songs for your age, voice type, skill level, and interest is really important. I will help guide you in finding the right choices for you.

PIANO LESSONS
*Alignment is the basis a great technique. Each person is different, and knowing how to help them release unwanted tension is critical.

*Building hand coordination is essential to playing piano. A variety of agility and strengthening exercises will help you gain greater control and comfort in playing.

*Articulation and phrasing is how pianists convey emotion. By Understanding the different colors available, a performer can create a dynamic and moving experience.

*Selecting songs for your skill level and interest is important. Playing music you love will make your experience more enjoyable.

ning.

I've taught students of all ages. I personally handpick the materials for my students based on their personalities and learning needs.

Recently moved to Shoreline,WA and ready to take new students!

If you're serious about enriching your life or the life of your child, I’d love to get in touch with you! :)

piano.

I keep my classes relaxed and fun, we laugh and enjoy ourselves, but when it comes to practice and learning piano, discipline is key. What I do guarantee is that you will not get bored.

My specialty is in classical and jazz music, but I've worked on a wide variety of genres.

I look forward to hearing from you and to start our piano journey.

y!

-I've helped students learn the ins and outs of ear training by teaching them how to play their favorite anime theme songs from memory alone.

-Like classical or jazz? I've shown people how to shred on everything from Chopin to Count Basie.

-Video game nerd (like me)? There are a ton of amazing soundtracks in games, and I've taught many students how to play songs from Zelda, Halo, and Final Fantasy, as well as indie games like Undertale and Journey.

-Want to be that guy/girl that can bang out awesome Karaoke jams at parties? I've taught people to play hits by Lady Gaga, Journey, 21 Pilots, and many more.

I've worked with kids and adults from beginner to advanced, so no matter what your age, background or skill level, I'd love to meet you and chat about what you want to get out of learning music.