Composition and Songwriting Lessons with a Professional Composer

From 58 £ /h

This course is for students, musicians, singers, songwriters, and composers who want to develop their own musical ideas with the guidance of a professional composer. I can help you write, organize, revise, and develop your music, whether you are working on a song, a piano piece, a chamber piece, a vocal work, a composition exercise, or a larger creative project. My approach is practical, analytical, and personalized. I will not impose one single style on you. Instead, I will help you understand your own musical language, identify what your piece needs, and build the technical tools to make your ideas clearer, stronger, and more coherent.

We can work on:

• Composition technique
• Songwriting
• Melody writing
• Harmony and chord progressions
• Form and structure
• Arranging
• Counterpoint basics
• Text setting
• Writing for voice
• Writing for instruments
• Developing musical ideas
• Finishing unfinished pieces
• Score review
• Creative process and artistic direction

The first session works as a diagnosis. We review your current level, musical background, goals, references, and any material you already have. From there, we create a focused plan. You may also book 2 sessions (diagnosis and follow-up) to receive general commentary and a review on your song or music piece.

Extra information

Please bring any musical material you already have: sketches, lyrics, chord progressions, recordings, scores, MIDI files, references, or unfinished pieces.

If you are starting from zero, that is also fine. In that case, please bring a few songs or pieces you like so we can use them as references.

The first session is diagnostic and will help us define your level, goals, style, and work plan.

Location

Online from Colombia

About Me

I am a professional composer, singer, music educator, author, and academic consultant with more than 10 years of experience in music education, composition, artistic research, and one-to-one mentoring.

I teach because I believe music is not only a technical discipline, but also a way of developing attention, memory, creativity, cultural understanding, and self-knowledge. My work combines rigorous musical training with a clear, practical, and human approach to learning.

As a teacher, I work especially well with students who need structure. I have plenty of experience with students preparing for university or conservatory admission, self-taught musicians who want to organize their knowledge, composers who need feedback, and university students working on essays, thesis projects, music analysis, or interdisciplinary research.

My lessons are not generic. In the first session, I assess the student’s current level, objectives, deadlines, strengths, and gaps. From there, I design a focused plan. Depending on the student’s needs, we may work on music theory, harmony, ear training, sight-reading, composition, songwriting, music analysis, research structure, academic writing, portfolio preparation, or admission-test preparation.

We may also work with a 2-session plan to adress one specific problem or to provide feedback on your research text, music piece or artistic portfolio.

My method is based on diagnosis, conceptual clarity, guided practice, and concrete feedback. I explain complex ideas in a clear way, but I also expect students to engage seriously with their own learning process. My goal is to help each student understand what they are doing, why it matters, and how to keep improving independently.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Music, Universidad Central, Bogotá, Colombia.

Diploma in Professional Voice, Vocology Center, 2022.

Diploma in Creation and Pedagogy of Musical Artistic Practices in the Regions of Colombia, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, 2023.

Additional training in composition, contemporary music, vocal practice, music pedagogy, artistic research, cultural management, and interdisciplinary creative processes through workshops, festivals, and academic programs in Colombia and abroad.

Experience / Qualifications

I have more than 10 years of experience as a music educator and more than 8 years of professional experience as a composer for solo instruments, chamber ensembles, theatre, film, animation, and interdisciplinary artistic projects.

I am the author of the music pedagogy book I Got Music, and my work has been performed, commissioned, cited, or consulted in academic and artistic contexts in Colombia, Mexico, Panama, Ireland, Spain, and the United States.

As a composer, I have written for solo instruments, chamber ensembles, experimental formats, voice, theatre, musical theatre, film, animation, and electroacoustic media. My work includes traditional formats such as string quartet, woodwind quintet, and solo pieces, as well as less common formats such as accordion and cello, accordion and clarinet, toy piano and fixed media, and open experimental ensembles.

As an educator and consultant, I have supported students and researchers in music theory, composition, music analysis, academic writing, research structure, music pedagogy, portfolio development, and interdisciplinary projects involving music, education, psychology, sociology, design, archive documentation, and cultural studies.

I have collaborated with institutions and organizations such as Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Círculo Colombiano de Música Contemporánea, Ensamble Vasto, Taller Sonoro, and other artistic and academic projects. I am also associated with the Círculo Colombiano de Música Contemporánea, adn I am the current Treasurer, accumulating experience as a cultural manager, music festival curator and organizer, and academic speaker.

My professional profile combines composition, pedagogy, research, and cultural management, which allows me to support students not only as a music tutor, but also as a mentor for artistic, academic, and professional development.

Age

Teenagers (13-17 years old)

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Duration

90 minutes

The class is taught in

English

Spanish

Skills

Music composition

Song writing

Music theory

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -05:00)

New York

Online via webcam

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

Academic Music Research Consultancy for Thesis, Essays, and Artistic Projects

58 £ /h

This course is for students, artists, musicians, educators, and researchers who need expert guidance for a thesis, essay, article, research project, artistic portfolio, or interdisciplinary academic work related to music, arts, education, humanities, or culture. I can help you clarify your research question, structure your argument, organize your sources, improve your writing, review your theoretical framework, analyze musical or artistic material, and help you prepare your project for academic presentation or thesis disertation.

What we can work on:

• Defining or refining your research question
• Organizing your thesis, essay, or article structure
• Reviewing your argument and theoretical framework
• Improving clarity, coherence, and terminology
• Connecting musical examples with theoretical ideas
• Reviewing sources and bibliography direction
• Preparing presentations or defense materials
• Developing a writing, revision, or research plan

Important: I do not write your thesis or assignment for you. This is an academic support and consultancy service. I help you think, organize, revise, and strengthen your own work.

Pre-College Music Admission Preparation or Autidion review

44 £ /h

This course is designed for students preparing for admission to a music university, conservatory, pre-college program, or undergraduate music program. I help students prepare the theoretical, practical, creative, and portfolio-related components of the admission process. The goal is not only to study more, but to identify the exact gaps that could affect your admission and build a focused preparation plan. My approach is structured, clear, and adapted to the student’s real objective. This course is especially useful for students who feel overwhelmed before admission exams, students with uneven theoretical foundations, self-taught musicians, singers, composers, songwriters, and applicants who need help organizing their musical knowledge before entering formal music studies.

We can work on:

• Music theory
• Harmony
• Ear training
• Sight-reading
• Rhythm
• Melodic dictation
• Basic music analysis
• Composition
• Songwriting
• Portfolio preparation
• Interview preparation
• Repertoire organization
• Study habits and practice planning

In the first session, I assess your current level, your target program, your timeline, and the type of admission test, interview, or portfolio you need to prepare. From there, we create a practical plan. I recommend a minium of 5 to 10 sessions to prepare the admission in depth, but I can also provide a 2-session programm to provide general commentary and review the admission or auditions.

Lydia

4.97

(35)

Welcome to my piano teaching studio! I am a professional pianist offering private piano and theory lessons for students of all levels. As a pianist with over 14 years of teaching experience in Europe and the USA, as well as over 23 years of playing/performing, I enjoy motivating my students with music of their own preferred style and interest, whether that be classical or contemporary. My main goal is to promote a positive experience and love for music-making during the learning process. If the student is interested in a more structured approach, I guide preparation for grades 1-8 of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) piano and music theory exams where my students consistently receive highest marks. I also have successful experience preparing students for conservatory entrance auditions, masterclasses, and competitions in the Europe, the USA, India, and Canada. We have class concerts at Pianos Maene for interested students twice per year. I am happy to provide either a more relaxed or a serious approach to learning piano, we simply need to discuss the personal goals and preferences of each student.

My own studies are as follows: I have obtained two postgraduate performance degrees at the Royal Conservatory of Antwerp: "Concertsoloist" in Piano Performance and "Chamber Music” (under the guidance of esteemed professor Sergei Edelmann). Prior to this, I received my Bachelor and Masters degrees in Piano Performance/Music from the University of Minnesota - Minneapolis (with Prof. Lydia Artymiw) and Texas Christian University, Fort Worth (with Dr. Tamas Ungar). My experience includes collaboration with many different instrumentalists and singers, performing as a soloist and collaborative member in several orchestras, and receiving top prizes in several competitions. While maintaining my performance and recording career in Belgium at present, I am developing my private music studio in central Antwerp and look forward to meeting new students.

Jeremy

4.97

(35)

Hi, my name is Jeremy and I've played music for 19 years, having performed over 200 concerts and composed with a wide variety of groups and ensembles across England and Belgium in many genres (Funk, R&B, Soul, Jazz, Rock, Alternative, Punk and more). I have completed 3 years of intensive bass study at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels and am currently playing bass plus backing-vocals and song arrangement for Kids of the Elephant and Arrubio.

In these lessons, I will help you reach your goals while having fun in the process, keeping the lessons structured and tailored to your personal needs. I have 5 years of experience helping students improve as well as specialist knowledge in a multitude of styles. Some examples of what you might learn include:

- Correct hand positioning & posture for best performance and faster learning.
- Learning your favorite songs quickly and easily.
- Breaking down rhythms & dynamics
- Understanding the role of bass playing in a band.
- Understanding what makes a good bassline and composing your own.
- Essential music theory for bass & more advanced techniques (eg: melodic techniques, rhythmic, slap bass, etc)
- How to improvise, jam and play with other musicians.

Appropriate homework/exercises and recordings are provided during lessons. I also like to give advice and direction for people with musical aspirations. I'm also an empathetic person that loves teaching, so don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions.

Natalia

4.97

(35)

As a piano teacher, I possess a strong musical ear, extensive piano skills, and a broad knowledge of music and music theory. Thanks to my experience as a music teacher, I can guide students in their musical development in a clear, structured, and inspiring way. I am fluent in sight-reading and can quickly analyze and explain music, which helps me support students efficiently and purposefully during their learning process.

In my lessons, I combine technical development with musical understanding and expression. Patience, clear communication, and a positive learning environment are essential to me. Every student is different, which is why I use a personal approach that pays attention to the pace, level, and goals of each student. My strong motivational skills help students gain confidence in their playing and continue to enjoy learning music.

An important part of my work as a piano teacher is recognizing my students' strengths and weaknesses. By observing and listening carefully, I can provide targeted advice and adapt exercises so that students develop step by step. I help them improve their technique, deepen their musicality, and strengthen their confidence on the instrument.

The primary task in my piano lessons is to motivate students and make them enthusiastic about playing the piano. I want students not only to learn to play, but also to develop a true love for music. Therefore, I pay attention to technical skills as well as musical interpretation and listening skills.

During the lessons, I work systematically on the development of hand and finger technique. This is done through targeted exercises such as scales, arpeggios, chord structures, and other technical exercises that help build flexibility, strength, and control in the fingers. Additionally, I guide students in reading sheet music correctly, understanding rhythm, dynamics, phrasing, and musical expression.

I also develop and use adapted teaching materials and exercises that match the student's level and progress. By regularly reviewing and adjusting the exercises and techniques, I ensure that students build a solid technical and musical foundation.

In addition to learning to play existing pieces, I also focus on understanding music. Therefore, students in my lessons are also introduced to elements of music theory, so that they better understand how music is structured. This helps them practice more independently, learn new music faster, and develop a deeper insight into music.

My goal as a piano teacher is to create an inspiring learning environment in which students can develop musically, discover their creativity, and grow step by step as musicians. Playing the piano is not only a technical skill but also an art form through which people can express emotions, ideas, and stories. Therefore, in my lessons, I always try to connect technique, knowledge, and musical experience.

Mayssa

4.97

(35)

I offer comprehensive guitar lessons for beginners, designed for those with no prior musical background who want to build a solid foundation in playing and reading music. The lessons follow a clear, progressive curriculum, combining practical application with theoretical understanding in a simple and enjoyable way.

Lesson content:

🎸 Guitar playing

Getting to know the parts of the guitar and the correct way to sit

Basics of using a quill and fingers

Exercises to strengthen the hands and improve coordination

Solo performance and vocal accompaniment

Developing a sense of rhythm and speed

🎼 Reading musical notation (from scratch)

Getting acquainted with the musical staff and basic notes

Reading sheet music on the guitar step by step

Practical exercises for linking musical notation and playing the instrument

Improving accuracy and avoiding common errors

🎶 Playing songs and musical pieces

Applying the lessons to well-known songs suitable for beginners

Playing simple musical pieces, then gradually increasing in complexity

Practicing musical technique and expression

Developing confidence in performance

📚 Music Theories

Basic musical scales

Rhythms and musical scale

Simple principles of harmony

Understanding the musical structure of songs

Teaching methodology:

Gradual and structured education

A simplified explanation with practical examples

Exercises tailored to the student's level

Continuous monitoring and evaluation of progress

An encouraging and stimulating learning environment

Who is this lesson for?

For complete beginners

For students wishing to learn guitar academically

For amateurs and music lovers

For children and adults alike

Andrea

4.97

(35)

One of the most wonderfull string instrument is the cello. If you want to learn how to play cello or just to continue improving your skills do not hesitate to contact me.
I have a lot of experience teaching cello and for me, the most important thing in my lessons is learn well and enjoy.

Ussually, my lesson programme is start with a short warm up (technique exercises) to continue with different cello pieces chosen by the students.
I have a lot of pop and actual music cello pieces for all levels.
In addition, I'm familiar with methods like ABRSM, Suzuki, Feuillard, Duport, Popper and Piatti.

Martin

4.97

(35)

In my class you learn how to play the guitar either finger style or with a pick (plectrum).
First, you learn the basics, if this is what you need. Then you learn about styles and ways of playing the guitar.
Consequently, you learn how to develop your own style in music and find ways of making yourself and others happy with the means of your guitar!

You also learn how purchase the right guitar and how to set it up for you to be comfortable with.

You save your money on a luthier's shop every month.

You learn the smartest fingerings for any chord changes and scales!

You get to learn the theory in detail so that you fully understand what you play.

You get best deals on guitars from local music stores.

You get to learn how to sightread music and more!

See you soon!
Martin

Shehab

4.97

(35)

Teaching different musical instruments: piano, guitar, oud, oriental singing and oriental maqamat, reading sheet music.

More than 5 years of experience teaching in music academies

Arabic singing: We will learn how to sing correctly, learn the exits of the letters, vocal exercises, and learn how to distinguish the Eastern Maqams in simple ways.

Oud: We will learn how to hold the oud in the correct way, speed exercises, oriental maqams and examples in songs for each maqam.

Piano: musical scales - and we learn about all kinds of chords (harmony) - famous pieces and songs by learning how to read musical notes - exercises to strengthen the fingers

Guitar: We will learn how to hold the guitar correctly, musical scales, chords and chords, technique exercises, pieces

Brent

4.97

(35)

Do you want to explore the world of (electronic) music production or take your skills to the next level? Whether you're a complete beginner or already have some experience, I can help you elevate your music production to new heights!

What I offer:
🎧 Music Theory & Sound Design: Discover how to create catchy melodies, harmonies, and rhythms. Learn sound design techniques, music theory, and tips & tricks to develop your own unique sound.
🎛️ FL Studio Expertise: Master the ins and outs of FL Studio (Fruity Loops) – from the basics to advanced techniques (VSTs, creating melodies, writing drum patterns, mixing, mastering, and more).
🎶 Work with Your DAW: Do you use a different program like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, or Cubase? No problem! I adapt to your preferred software.
🎹 Practical & Accessible: No prior knowledge required! Everyone is welcome, whether you want to produce house, rap, techno, pop, or any other genre.

About the lessons:
- Personalized Guidance: Lessons are tailored to your needs and skill level.
Online and In-Person Options: Flexibility to choose the format that suits you best.
- Use of Professional Tools: You'll learn to work with professional tools, ensuring your tracks sound polished and ready for release.

What you need:
- A laptop/computer.
- Motivation to bring your musical vision to life!

Who am I?
Hey, I’m Brent! With over 8 years of experience in music production and a degree to back it up, I produce music under the name Pai Napple. You can find my tracks on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and more. I’ve garnered millions of streams and collaborated with well-known artists. My main genres are rap, pop, R&B, and EDM. I also sell music to other artists and for TV and film.

Interested?
Ready to start? Send me a message to learn more or book a lesson directly. Let’s kickstart your musical journey together! 🎶

Natia

4.97

(35)

In my piano lessons, you can expect a personalized and inspiring learning experience. I tailor each lesson to suit your individual goals, preferences, and pace, ensuring you get the most out of your musical journey. Whether you're a beginner learning the basics or an advanced player refining your skills, I will guide you every step of the way.

What You Can Expect:

Technical Foundations: We will work on finger technique, rhythm, and sight-reading to build a strong foundation.
Musical Expression: Alongside technique, we’ll focus on musical interpretation and expression. Music is not just about playing notes—it's about conveying emotions and telling stories.
Diverse Repertoire: Depending on your interests, we will explore a wide range of repertoire, from classical pieces to modern works, broadening your musical range.
Regular Progress Check-ins: I will ensure we continuously track your progress, focusing on strengthening your strengths and addressing areas for improvement.
Lesson Goals:
My goal is to ignite your passion for the piano and provide you with the tools to reach your musical aspirations—whether that’s playing for pleasure, preparing for competitions, or refining your technique. Each lesson will bring you closer to your musical dreams.

Lucy

4.97

(35)

For artists, songwriters, and creatives ready to shape their vision.

Are you working on your own songs and feeling stuck?
Do you have a head full of ideas but struggle to bring them together into one clear artistic story?
Or maybe you’ve already created something you're proud of, but you want to take it further — deeper, bolder, more you.

I'm here to help you connect the dots.

As a singer, songwriter, producer and creative director working on my own debut album, I know how overwhelming the creative process can feel. There’s so much more to being an artist than just making music. Your sound, your visuals, your story, your live performance — it’s all connected. That’s where I come in.

In our sessions, we can explore whatever part of your creative world needs support:

🎵 Songwriting – melody, lyrics, structure, harmony
🎧 Production Direction – from early sketches to refined ideas
🌙 Artistic Identity – visual storytelling, aesthetics, branding
🎤 Performance & Presence – connecting with your audience
💡 Creative Strategy – organizing ideas and unlocking new ones
🌀 Intuitive Guidance – sometimes you just need a sounding board

You don’t have to do this alone.

Whether you're a beginner or a more advanced artist, we’ll work with what’s already inside you — your instincts, your taste, your questions. Sessions are fully personalized and can be a one-time deep dive or part of a longer creative journey together.

Giuseppe

4.97

(35)

Classical music has evolved over more than a thousand years into a rich and complex art — one that requires not only passion, but also trained listening and understanding.

In these personalised one‐on‐one lessons, you will develop your ear through:

- Ear training based on integrated solfège and musical harmony

- Essential music theory

- Writing exercises and dictations, with clear guidance on techniques to master them

- Harmonic analysis of your repertoire and other universal or personally relevant pieces

These foundations will help you:

- Grasp the function of musical elements

- Gain a clearer and fuller understanding of music

- Improve your playing and musical memory

- Improve musical reading

- Express music with clarity and confidence

Whether you are:

- An amateur with an intermediate or high level

Or

- A musician aiming to go professional

...these lessons will help you connect more deeply with music, perform with greater accuracy, and enjoy it more than ever.

According to your musical level, I will guide you through short and basic daily exercises using a clear step‐by‐step method:

- Each exercise lasts from 5 to 15 minutes

- Essential to practise regularly for maximum efficiency

- Not overly difficult, but requires a bit of perseverance (just 10 minutes a day) to obtain the best results

📍 Available online and in‐person in Paris (preferable). But a mix of both is also possible.
🎯 Contact me today to book your first lesson and start your personalised programme.

Those who reach a high level of harmony will be able to unlock the next level: Musical form. Analysis tools for advanced students.

Enrico

4.97

(35)

My lessons are friendly, relaxed and interactive. We start from the music you enjoy and build your skills step by step.
In class we work on songs, chords, rhythm, technique and improvisation, always in a practical and musical way. Lessons are adapted to your level and goals, whether you are a beginner or already have some experience.
My goal is simple: help you understand the piano, enjoy music and feel confident playing.
Feel free to send me a message and tell me what music you love!

Dennis

4.97

(35)

My approach is to help you develop your ears so they become the main instrument for your music journey. That applies to guitar, piano, etc. I teach you to learn theory as map for your musical journey and not as strict rules to follow. I teach you to teach yourself.

Melina

4.97

(35)

Hi! My name is Melina and I am a passionate pianist and piano teacher with Master degree in Piano Performance, offering personalized piano lessons tailored to your musical goals and individual pace.
Whether you are an absolute beginner or looking to advance your piano playing skills, my lessons blend proper technique, music theory with classical music repertoire to help you progress.
Book a session today to start your musical journey!

Five years of experience working with children from year 4 to adult professionals and adult beginners.

Mark

4.97

(35)

In these lessons, you’ll learn the fundamentals of music production, including audio recording, editing, mixing and mastering. I’ll teach you how to work with different audio effects, plugins, microphones and recording techniques to achieve a professional sound.

We can also explore the creative side of music production: how to get started with making music, develop musical ideas, write songs, create arrangements and bring your own musical projects to life.

I’ll guide you through working with industry-standard DAWs such as Logic Pro and Ableton Live, helping you understand their tools and workflows, whether you’re a complete beginner or already have some experience.

The lessons are tailored to your interests, goals and current level. My aim is not only to teach you the technical skills but also to help you become more independent and confident in creating your own music.