Compose Across Genres: From "Ice Merchants" Orchestrator (Oscars® Nominated)

From 44 £ /h

This class is for anyone, musicians or non-musicians, professionals or amateurs, who want to discover how to express themselves through music.

I've had the unique opportunity to work as the orchestrator and conductor for the soundtrack of "Ice Merchants," a film that got an Oscar nomination, a first prize in Cannes and more than 100 international awards. Besides working in film, my journey in the realm of music composition has been rich and varied, composing music for solo instrumentalists, chamber ensembles or even opera or large orchestras. These experiences have enriched my understanding of music, and I'm eager to share these insights with you.

In our lessons, you will explore various aspects of music composition:

· Compose Your Own Music: Learn how to create music that resonates with you and your audience, regardless of your current skill level.
· Find Inspiration: Discover diverse sources of inspiration to keep your compositions fresh and engaging.
· Instrumental Possibilities: Gain a deeper understanding of different instruments and how they can enhance your music.
· Personalised Compositional Toolbox: Develop a unique set of skills and techniques that reflect your individual style.

You can choose to focus on areas such as:

— Classical Music: Explore both traditional and contemporary classical composition.
— Songwriting: Craft songs in a variety of styles.
— Electronic Music Production: Dive into the world of electronic music across genres.
— Music for Cinema and Video Games: Learn about composing for visual media
— Music Installations and Generative Music: Experiment with innovative music technology, using softwares like Max MSP, Logic Pro X or even AI.

The lessons will be more than just learning how to compose; they will be about discovering your unique musical identity and the fun of bringing it to life. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to enhance your existing skills, I'm here to guide and support you on this musical journey.

Extra information

- You will just need your own laptop (if you prefer old-school, paper is also fine!)
- Keyboard might be helpful but not essential

Location

Use Ctrl + wheel to zoom!

At student's location :

Around Amsterdam, Netherlands

Online from Netherlands

About Me

I'm a Portuguese composer based in Amsterdam. I'm composition guest teacher at the Fontys School of Fine and Performing Arts (Tilburg) and the Young Composer in Residence at Casa da Música (Porto), during 2020.

My music studies started when I was 3 years and during my path, I learned how to play piano and bassoon. I love to teach music and I have been doing it actively since 2014. I experienced teaching Ear Training and Choir to young children but also Composition and Music Theory to adults.

My music has been played in various halls around Europe, in venues as Muziekgebouw aan 't IJ, OrgelPark (Amesterdam), AMUZ (Antwerp), KORZO (Den Haag), Casa da Música (Porto), Castelo Sforzesco (Milan), Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian (Lisbon) and Muziekgebouw Frits Philips (Eindhoven).

Education

Master in Music Composition - Conservatorium van Amsterdam
Bachelor in Music Composition - ESMAE (Porto, Portugal)
Complementary Music Course - instruments: Bassoon/Piano - AMCC (Porto, Portugal)

Experience / Qualifications

- Young Composer in Residence, at Casa da Música (Porto) 2020.
- Guest teacher at the Fontys School of Fine and Performing Arts (Tilburg) | Master of Music (from October 2019 to June 2020).
- Private composition lessons for 5 years.
- Performing artist at the Memorabele Momenten (MEMO) - Amsterdam. Working with children between 0-5 years old (since 2019).
- 3rd prize of the competition "SIMM New Music for harpsichord 2018”, in Milan, Italy, with the piece "Three Deadly Causes".
- Soundtrack for the the short-movie “Reminiscência”, winner of the 1st prize of Sophia Student Prize - Portuguese Academy of Cinema, in the experimental category.
- Selection for the international composition workshop “The Times Academy” with the HERMES ensemble, in Antwerp.
- Selection for the program “Talent Operas”, part of the Opera Forward Festival ’19, where I premiered my opera “Alma Grande”, at the Dutch National Opera & Ballet.

Age

Children (7-12 years old)

Teenagers (13-17 years old)

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Duration

60 minutes

The class is taught in

English

Portuguese

Skills

Music composition

Music theory lessons

Computer generated music

Reviews

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -04:00)

New York

Online via webcam

At student's home

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

Louisa

5.0

(2)

Dear violin lovers! I'm a violin teacher for 10 years now, I have been teaching in Portugal and the Netherlands. My lessons can be given in English, Portuguese, French or Spanish.

Playing the violin is my passion, especially when I can pass on my knowledge and love for music to my students of all ages and levels.

I work as a team with you, finding the right method that fit your needs. What is important for me is to work on a good connection with the instrument and find the right basis for the start of your violin playing.
In my violin lessons, I would like also to share with you my musical knowledge, show you recordings of great violin players, prepare with you pieces that you always wanted to play and give you the tools so you can achieve your goals in music. I like to share the general knowledge of violin playing as well as basic and intermediate music theory lessons so you can enter in the world of music, but especially to have fun!!

My lessons can be shared between violin and theory together depending on what you are looking for.

The lessons will be at my house if you are in need of an instrument we can find one for you!

I did my Bachelor at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam with the teachers Maria Milstein and Eliot Lawson and completed my Masters in Performance degree with excellency as well in Amsterdam under the guidance of Liviu Prunaru and Mathieu van Bellen while studying baroque violin with Shunske Sato.

I have my own violin class in Amsterdam, and I love teaching.

I look forward to sharing this adventure with you!
Hope to hear from you!
Louisa

Katie

5.0

(2)

Hi! I have over 7 years of teaching experience from young kids to adults of all levels and I love it! My goal is for my students to find joy in playing an instrument and have fun during the lessons. I also aim to make every student come out of the lesson feeling motivated to carry on learning, and tailor the lessons to what they want to learn and how to achieve their goal.
I can also help students prepare for their piano exams and theory exams.

Luís

5.0

(2)

I am a bassoonist and composer from Australia who is available to tutor in Amsterdam. I teach not only the ordinary modern bassoon but also historical performance, whether that would be on period instruments or otherwise. I am also available to tutor music theory and composition for all levels.

I have won prizes in both bassoon and composition, including the Royal Schools Music Club Anniversary Scholarship, the Bendat Family Foundation Composition Scholarship, the Royal Over-Seas League Arts Travel Scholarship, and the Catholic Arts Chapman Scholarship.

I have also been part of a variety of ensembles, including the MAPLE wind quintet, Tura New Music's Breaking Out Ensemble, and orchestras in Australia. I have had the incredible opportunity to write and arrange for many ensembles with very different instrumental combinations such as Piñata Percussion, the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, the Chamber Orchestra of St George's College, and Trinity College, Perth.

As a teacher, I strive to develop students to become inspired by music and to always seek a deeper understanding and appreciate of music. I am open to teaching any student so long as they can hold an instrument comfortably!

Oleg

5.0

(2)

I am a professional musician who graduated from the Conservatorium van Amsterdam (Master's degree, Jazz Department). I have a wide experience of teaching and performing which I would be glad to share with you.

I can teach various topics of Music Theory from the first level to advanced:
- Jazz and classical harmony
- Improvisation
- Arranging
- Composition
- Piano comping
- Ear training

I am flexible in the process of teaching. I can offer a systematic and personal approach. According to your level, needs, and interests, we can:
- Make a plan of lessons and learn topics step by step.
- Work with specific questions and material you choose.
- Prepare for exams. For example, the entrance exam in the Conservatorium.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to send them to me!

Nikola

5.0

(2)

You’ve Always Wanted to Play the Accordion. Let’s Make It Happen.
For you or for your child, it can start with one free lesson.

Maybe you’ve loved the sound of the accordion for years but never believed you could play it yourself.
Maybe you already own one, but online videos have left you with more questions than answers.
Or maybe you’re looking for a patient teacher who will help your child enjoy music and feel proud of their progress.
Whatever brings you here, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
You bring curiosity. I’ll bring guidance, encouragement, and a clear plan.

Hi, I’m Nikola Spasic, founder of Accordion Joy Academy, an ArtEZ Conservatory graduate, and a two-time winner of the Dutch National Accordion Competition.
I teach live, private online lessons that start with you, your experience, your musical taste, your pace, and the time you have available.
You don’t need to read music before starting. You don’t need to feel naturally talented. And you don’t need to have begun as a child.
We’ll build the skills together, one manageable step at a time.

Here’s how I’ll help you move forward.
Personal attention in every lesson. Ask questions, get feedback, and understand how to improve.
A clear practice plan. Know what to work on between lessons, with manageable goals that fit your routine.
Music you actually want to play. Classical, tango, folk, musette, movie themes, and more—adapted to your level.
Support you can revisit. Lesson recordings, demonstrations, and sheet music help you practise with confidence.
Patient guidance through the tricky parts. We’ll work on the bellows, bass buttons, and coordination without rushing.
Encouragement along the way. See your progress, celebrate small successes, and connect with fellow learners in my private accordion community.

For children, lessons make room for curiosity, repetition, and small achievements that build confidence. For adults, they offer a structured way to finally make music part of your life.
Your first simple song in 30 days, or your money back.
We’ll start with a song suited to your level and build towards playing it from beginning to end. If you don’t get there within 30 days, I’ll refund your money.
Your first step is a free one-on-one trial lesson, with no obligation to continue. We’ll talk about your goals, try some practical exercises, and discuss lesson options and prices.

Don’t have an accordion yet? Contact me first, and I’ll help you understand what to look for.
Send me a message saying, “I’d love to learn”, and tell me whether the lessons are for you or your child.
Let’s give that wish a place to start.

Mauro

5.0

(2)

About me:
I hold both a Bachelor's and a Master's Degree in Jazz Double Bass from the Conservatorium van Amsterdam.
I regularly perform live with various projects in prestigious venues and jazz clubs, and I have recorded bass on 15 albums, (jazz and pop), on both double bass and electric bass.

I have years of experience teaching students of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced players.
I also worked with the organization Memo, performing interactive shows in kindergartens.

About my lesson lessons:

After a first lesson, I propose a study plan according to your level, your objectives and your interests.
The main topics will be:
- repertoire (the music You want to play)
- technique and knowledge of the fingerboard
- ear training and basic harmonic knowledge
- rhythm, tempo
- improvisation

Tamara

5.0

(2)

I'm Georgian violinist, currently studying at the concervatory van Amsterdam. I have a lot of experience to play on stage as a soloist as well as in ensembles. I am winner of many national and international competitions. I have had many opportunities to get lessons from many well known teachers, musicians from all over the world. Currently, I get lessons from Prof. Ilya Grubert.
It's my pleasure to share my knowledge to others and have a nice music atmosphere!

Fermin

5.0

(2)

My goal is that you come out of the lessons feeling inspired and enriched by music and of course, trying to enjoy together. There is no need to have a minimum level for the lessons, whether you are a beginner or have an advanced level for violin-viola or Music theory, my lessons will be adapted to your needs and desires to get the best out of each student. Flexible lesson times, without stress and of course having fun and pleasure in music-making!

Lessons online in English, German (beginner), Spanish and Basque

Stefano

5.0

(2)

Are you ready to discover the magic of one of the most beautiful instruments ever created? Look no further! The piano has transformed my life and I'm confident it will do the same for you.

With my guidance, I'll equip you with all the tools you need to approach this majestic and stunning instrument. I'll take you on a personal journey, step by step, showing you how to master the Piano in a way that suits your individual style. Whether it's Jazz, Classical, or Pop, you'll fall in love with playing the Piano!

But that's not all - I'm also thrilled to offer you the opportunity to explore:
- Music theory
- Songwriting and Composition skills

With my expert guidance, you'll develop a well-rounded musical education that will take your talent to new heights.

So why wait? Get in touch with me today and let's embark on this wonderful journey together!

Antek

5.0

(2)

Hello there!

My name is Antek and i'm a cellist, pianist and composer who graduated from Conservatorium van Amsterdam. As a cellist I've had the pleasure and honour of collaborating with renowned artists such as Hans Zimmer, being part of his 2022 European Tour Orchestra, touring over 15 countries and playing in locations such as London's O2 Arena or Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam. I am now mainly active as a performer of contemporary/experimental music, as well as classical music, freelancing in various orchestras in the Netherlands, having played in venues such as Muziekgebouw aan 't IJ, Concertgebouw or TivoliVredenburg. I offer cello lessons, regardless of the level - whether you are a curious beginner or more advanced player, i'm happy to collaborate and share my knowledge and experience with you, as well as inspire your creativity regarding both playing the right notes, and making artistic choices.

I can also help you prepare for conservatory entrance exams by providing Solfege, Ear-training and General Music Theory lessons.

As a composer, I'm currently pursuing a degree at Royal Conservatoire of Antwerp. I can help you work on your ideas, and how to write them down, to sound exactly how you want them to sound. That includes tutorials on engraving rules, orchestration, working in DAWs (Ableton) and using sheet music software (Sibelius, MuseScore), as well as building your craft and workflow. I'm experienced in writing both instrumental and electronic music, as well as performance art, live electronics and multidisciplinary projects. I have also collaborated with institutions like National Polish Radio or CelloWercken Festival Zutphen.

I hope to hear back from you soon and I'm looking forward to start working on your musical journey!
Peace and Love
Antek

Yammy

5.0

(2)

As a Cambridge University graduate in the Faculty of Education, I am delighted to have settled down in the Netherlands since September 2019. I started piano at the age of 5, and music has been an important part of my life ever since.

Classically trained as a violinist, I picked up another instrument named Erhu (Chinese violin) and became a professional performer. I am experienced in teaching both children and adults, from different cultural backgrounds.

Also, I have been actively involved in both Western and Chinese orchestra since high school. Thanks to my years of experience in being an orchestra member and soloist, I am also familiar with orchestral music.

As a humble music therapist, I am passionate about music and believe in the power of music. I trust that music is in everybody and I respect every student's individuality and thus tailor my teaching methods to develop my students' full potential.

I started teaching in 2009 and most students put their trust in me when they first decided to learn an instrument. I also enjoy exploring the world of music with students with learning disabilities.

I am proud to say, my students, aged from 5 to 60, are enthusiastic in playing the instrument they have chosen and keen to improve their skills following my advice.

I adopt a flexible approach in teaching - I believe every student is unique and my job is to develop the strengths and improve the weaknesses. I put a lot of emphasis on a solid foundation in my teaching.

For young children, I tend to use a more interactive approach to explain complicated music theories, yet strict in the fundamentals such as posture and rhythm. For adults, I am always happy to discuss with them my lesson plan and choose the best exercises and songs that suit their music interests and needs.

For my students who would like to take exams, I am happy to tailor the lessons based on their progress. I believe in the quality of learning and understanding rather than the number of pieces that they learn. Many beginners and their parents have put their trusts in me and achieved distinction in their first ABRSM exam.

I am fluent in English and Mandarin Chinese, and a native speaker of Cantonese Chinese.

I am happy to travel and travel costs will be added on the top of the standard tuition fee.

*Proof of qualifications avaliable upon requests.

Samuel

5.0

(2)

Hello

I'm a professional bass player living in Amsterdam. I have a passion for teaching and passing on some of the knowledge that I have acquired during my studies at several schools and heard from the musicians I look up to. I've done my bachelor degree at The Royal Academy of Music in Denmark, and I finished my Masters at Conservatorium van Amsterdam in 2024.

I teach double bass, electric bass and composition.

Musically I try to be as open as I can. For me it doesn't matter if it's free jazz, traditional jazz, pop or metal as long as it feels good.

I'm a leader of my own group where we combine jazz and indie rock. we will release our debut album this fall.

I'm also a sideman in several groups.

As for composition I have experience with composing for regular jazz groups, big band, string quartet and irregular constellations such as my band with three guitars and three horns.

Some thoughts about teaching:

I believe that the most important thing when teaching is having a good relation to one another and generally just having a good time. If we don't enjoy the process we don't learn.
You should feel comfortable saying how you feel and what you want to learn/don't want to learn. With that transparency I will be able to customize the teaching and balance the curriculum so that I meet your needs while pushing you into unknown territory.

If you're reading this I'm happy that you took your time to read through it all, and hopefully we'll get to meet and talk about music!

Sofiia

5.0

(2)

Lessons are specifically tailored to the needs of each student, with a focus on their personal requests. I offer various approaches — teaching, coaching, mentoring. My lesson style ranges from diving into music theory and analysing great music works of the past, to developing a musical concept for your compositions and working on your personal style.

I am proficient in jazz arranging and composing, classical orchestration and composition, jazz and classical theory, solfege, rhythmics, as well as working within interdisciplinary fields — combining different art forms with music.

I offer a wide range of possibilities — writing your own compositions/songs; arranging for a big band (or any other ensemble); songwriting; working with strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion.
Your motivation is the limit:)

I am also working with Sibelius as a software, so I can teach you to use it.

Deniz

5.0

(2)

In this class, we use Ableton Live as a creative tool to explore music production, composition, and sound design. Whether you're a beginner or already producing, the lessons are tailored to your goals. whether that’s making beats, writing songs, or designing experimental soundscapes. You'll learn how to turn your musical ideas into finished tracks, while gaining practical knowledge of arrangement, audio effects, MIDI, sampling, and more. Theory is introduced in a simple, intuitive way to support your creativity, and improvisation is encouraged to help you find your own sound. My goal is to give you the tools—and the confidence—to create music that feels truly yours.

Arshia

5.0

(2)

Rather than a fixed curriculum, I build a custom syllabus for each student based on their needs, goals, and current level. In designing lessons, I draw on my own experience both as a self-taught musician and as an academically trained one — combining structured, conservatory-level methods with the flexibility that comes from having found my own way into this field first.

Lessons are shaped in pace and format to what actually works for the student in front of me — whether that means working note-by-note through an audition piece, or building broader theoretical fluency over a longer stretch of time.