Improvisation for beginners and intermediates (any instrument)

From 30 £ /h

Would you classify improvisation as composition or performance? Well actually it is both! When you improvise you are composing music on the spot, performing what you have made up at the same time as you have composed it.

For many people improvisation is a scary word and having to improvise in a group or band is an alarming prospect. However, this really does not need to be the case. As long as you have a basic knowledge of how to play your instrument you will be able to improvise. Once you know the principle of how chords are formed you will soon be improvising with ease.

The key to success is understanding chords. Once you know how chords are formed and know what notes make up a few chords you will be well on your way towards being able to improvise. We will, therefore, start by ensuring a firm knowledge of certain chords. After this we will progress to improvising a simple melody over the top of these chords. The next stage is to start using notes that are not in the chord. The process is then open ended with emphasis on developing the melody.

If you play a keyboard instrument you will be able to improvise your own pieces and be able to entertain your friends at a moments notice. On the other hand if you play in a band or a group you will be well equipped to do a real 'jam' session.

Whether you play a single line instrument (flute, saxophone, trumpet, violin etc.) or keyboard instruments, this class is for you.

Extra information

You and your musical instrument is all you need.

Location

Online from United Kingdom

About Me

Music has always been my passion. Ever since I was 13 I wanted to become a Music teacher to inspire others to enjoy creating Music. I qualified as a specialist Music teacher in 1984 and taught in a comprehensive school in England for over 34 years before taking early retirement. However, I still had a great desire to teach students from home which I continue to do via the internet.

I have played piano and violin to a high standard for many years. Whilst still a student myself I had plenty of opportunities to play in orchestras and chamber ensembles on a regular basis. Additionally I went on to conduct orchestras, bands and choirs. I have given many pupils the chance to be involved in making music in various different groups, thus enhancing their social experience of combining and co-operating with others.

My great interest in compositing music has been enhanced by having the opportunity to learn the basics of trumpet, guitar, drum kit and ukulele. I have composed in a variety of different genres including instrumental, choral/vocal, incidental music and avant garde. I have composed conventionally (using manuscript paper), using studio techniques and computers.

I have always enjoyed working with a wide range of different musical styles, catering for the interests of my students. This enables me to offer bespoke lessons to my students, demonstrating a great insight into the individuality of each person that I teach.

Education

CNAA certificate for specialist Music Teachers
B Mus (2i) Birmingham University
S level Music - 2
A level Music - A
O level Music - A
Grade 8 violin
Grade 8 piano

Experience / Qualifications

Software programs used :-
Logic Pro
Garageband
Sibelius
Personal Composer

Instruments played :-
Piano/keyboard/organ
Violin/viola
Drums
Bass guitar

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

30 minutes

45 minutes

60 minutes

The class is taught in

English

Skills

Music composition

Jazz music

Music theory

Reviews

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

Composing Music for instruments and/or voices(any genre)

30 £ /h

Composing your own music has always been a very rewarding task. This has never been so true as the present day when you can hear what you compose instantly if you use computers to generate and play back your own music. However, to ensure that your music sounds really great (whether using computers, manuscript or actual instruments) there are many principles to be considered.

I have had a great interest in composing for over 45 years. I have composed for various combinations of instruments and voices in a wide variety of styles. Having been a music teacher in a comprehensive school for over 30 years, I have had a lot of very relevant experience in teaching composition to a wide range of different ages and abilities. These opportunities have enabled me to tutor students in a diverse variety of genres.

The class will be personalized to your particular standard and chosen style of composition. We would focus on generic building blocks such as structure and instrumentation as well as looking at how to develop ideas. Using a range of compositional devices will also be key to enhancing your compositions. I will tailor-make the class to suit you.

Getting to Grips with Music Theory is simpler than you think!

30 £ /h

The theory of everything tends to be really scary and music theory can be too. I am very keen to make music theory easy for everyone. For some people there is only one way to tackle the unmentionable but I believe there are many different approaches and one of them will click with you. It is simply finding out what is best for each person. Once we find the key we can unlock the problems that have puzzled you for ages.

Music theory needs to be more than a requirement, it needs to be the way to really appreciate the music you are playing. Certain aspects can also lead to additional practical skills such as improvisation which can be very useful as well as very enjoyable.

Whether you want to understand a particular aspect of music theory or If you struggle with music theory in general, then this is the class for you - why not give it a try?

Lou-Indigo

4.87

(84)

The course that I propose is BILINGUAL FRENCH / ENGLISH, as well as 2 BOOKS.

Age and musical taste are not restrictive when in the program, you can with qualitative daily work (not quantitative) quickly observe your progress.

Here the pleasure of playing music is put forward.

The kind of music you love most will be the focus of the course, their codes and secrets will be the focus of our study, that's what I want to share with you.

We can do technical lessons and simply learn together how to play one or more songs of your choice or mine, enrich your game with this approach and your repertoire!

(For example, We can re-arrange the pieces and make them more original by approaching the system (CAGED), and enriching their chords, resulting in new positions, new techniques and new sounds, using arpeggio techniques rather than strumming for 4-chord pieces, voicing and fingerstyle techniques, in short, expanding the instrument's playing fields and playing skills to keep progressing in your game and improve your rehearsals ...)

If you make a request, this program is obviously accompanied by the pleasure of learning more in theory and being able to directly apply new knowledge on its instrument and identify its common or rare use in the pieces discussed in class.

In this case, the theory is translated to be accessible to anyone, both for those who are connoisseurs and for those who discover everything from absolute zero.
The exercises, songs, and theoretical explanations offered throughout the program are organized in an order of progressive difficulty.

I wrote and produced 2 books of my method to learn the guitar and the music, that I sell to accompany my course and your apprenticeship in the best conditions and so that you can continue the course even at home and to review etc ... .
There is ONE BOOK OF COURSES containing all the theoretical and practical program of the year, as well as a BOOK OF EXERCISE on the ranges and the modes that you can obtain directly.

You can find here an indicative list of objectives that I propose in my theoretical program, which can of course adapt to your request.

The general theoretical objectives of the course:

--- Tuning / tuning and knowing his guitar:
* Standard Tuning
* Drop Tuning
* Open Tuning
* Adjust the optimal tension of the strings
* Adjust the shaft axis
* Adjust the action of the strings
* Choose the strings adapted to the style of play / tuning
* Change his strings

-Know his chords:
* Triads: Fundamental State & Inversions
* Tetrads: Fundamental State & Inversions
* The chord progressions of the Range
* Arpeggio techniques (tapping, sweep, 1/2/4 fing.shape, etc ...)

--- Know his scales and his modes

* The Mode of the Major scale
* 3 Modes of the Minor scale: Natural / Melodic / Harmonic
* Modes of the Pentatonic range: 5 positions
* Modes of the Blues range: 5 positions
Etc ...

--- Technique to the Pick / Plectrum / Tab / Pick (Electric Guitar):
* Alternate Picking
* Fast Picking / Tremolo Picking
* Hybrid Picking
* Palm Mute
* Natural Harmonics
* Pinch Harmonics
* Artificial Harmonics
* Shredding
* Tapping
* Sweep Picking
* Legato Picking

--- Strumming / Hand Picking (Acoustic Guitar)
* "SnareDrum" percussion on the guitar
* Arpeggios pinched with 4 fingers + thumb
* Rasgueado (Flamenco Technique)
* Generic Strumming
* Fingerstyle Picking
* Two-finger picking + Legato for fast melodies (eg a solo)

-Play the metronome
* exercises on click
* practice on song riffs

-Learn his favorite songs
* without thinking about the difficulty, nothing is impossible with the right methodology

-Improvise
* choose ranges and positions
* to place oneself rhythmically, to finish on the judicious notes

-Theory of Harmony
* Understand harmonization and its practice

-Theory on the Melody

-Theory of Rhythm

Sergio

4.87

(84)

Online classes of classical, electric or acoustic guitar, bass, Venezuelan cuatro, music theory, rhythmic or harmony. Beginner-intermediate-advanced. (Skype-Zoom-Meet). 12 years of musical experience.

Book your schedule now!

Do you have a musical instrument at home and do you always wanted to learn to play it?
Are you not sure where to start?

I can help you, I am Sergio and I have 12 years of experience in the musical area. I am a student of music education at the (UPEL) Universidad Pedagógica Experimental Libertador Miranda José Manuel Siso Martínez and the Conservatory Lino Gallardo as a classical guitar interpreter. Furthermore, I also have experience teaching online classes via Zoom, Skype or Google Meet. If you think your level is beginner, intermediate or advanced, I can help you in your musical development. More than learning to play songs, musical art is a discipline and its own language that helps interdisciplinary in other areas of learning.

° Classes:
-Classic/Acoustic guitar.
-Electric guitar.
-Bass.
-Piano/Keyboard.
-Music theory.
-Solfeggio.
-Rhythmic and movement.
-Harmony.
-Venezuelan cuatro.

Giorgia

4.87

(84)

I teach for all levels, from children starting from zero to students who want to prepare certifications at the Conservatories, passing through amateurs or simply curious of any age.

I firmly believe in the importance of knowing how to read music and this is exactly what I teach first, obviously adapting the method to the age of my students: knowing how to read music is knowing one more language, which, if learned well, won’t ever be forgotten (like riding a bicycle!) and it is an invaluable wealth. Starting from that point I teach the position of the hand, the arm and the whole body at the piano, the fundamentals of the piano technique (giving great importance to the percussive movement of the finger and the distribution of weight), the understanding of musical language, the expression of the personality through the keyboard, the search for touch and knowledge of piano repertoire.

Andrea

4.87

(84)

Hello! I've been teaching continuously for over 10 years, and I'd like to explain what you can expect from a class with me.

Personalized approach: The most important thing is to know what you want to achieve. I will tailor the lessons to your needs: playing for pleasure at home is not the same as preparing for entrance exams (although always with the same rigor). Your goals will influence the methodology, the organization of your studies, the repertoire, and so on.

Relaxed (but rigorous) environment: Once you've defined your goals, classes will be dynamic and pressure-free. Note! "Relaxed" doesn't mean undemanding; we'll just avoid military methods—especially given my personality and sense of humor.

Music, not just notes: My methods are very dynamic, with a special emphasis on hearing and musicality. No "read, play, and turn the page." I avoid approaches obsessed with reading sheet music without memorizing, listening, or understanding what is being played. I want you to own your performance and make artistic decisions. Warning! I might even make you sing.

No stylistic barriers: Thanks to my training in Jazz and Modern Music, I give equal importance to all genres. Adapting to your tastes, we'll go from baroque to blues, from Haydn to bebop... or even Michael Jackson. Why not?

If you identify with this approach, contact me! Learning the cello is a pleasure, and I'd love to share it with you!

Martin

4.87

(84)

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

4.87

(84)

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

David

4.87

(84)

I am a Spanish pianist and composer (MMus graduate from Codarts Rotterdam in both directions) with many years of teaching experience, and also very active in performing in various contexts.

I give private piano lessons for all levels and styles (classical, jazz, Latin, new age, pop...), as well as music theory, composition and improvisation lessons. My lessons are distinguished by their dynamics, practical approach and adaptation to the needs and interests of the student.

The lessons (live or online) take place in my studio next to the Maastunnel, where I have a premium stage piano and a top-quality webcam setup.

I speak Dutch at an intermediate level, which is improving every day.

Pinelopi

4.87

(84)

Singing Lessons (Individual) - Live or Online!

Hello! I’m Pinelopi, a vocalist and guitarist from Greece. My journey in music began in childhood, the last eight years I'm performing professionally, touring the Greek Islands and gracing stages across Europe, including Berlin, London, Sofia, Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, Groningen, and Athens.

Music is a vital part in my life, it is joy, emotional expression and a way to connect!
My musical journey has led me to the Netherlands, to grow as an artist and expand my music network.

What to Expect in Our Singing Lessons:

We'll focus on posture and breathing technique. We'll built repertoire - play together and improvise.
I'll give you tricks to find your self on stage and never ever forget lyrics.
" Voice is the muscle of the soul " <3

Lesson Structure:

Each session is tailored to your experience and goals, and we can explore topics such as:

-Warm-up exercises
-Breathing and posture techniques
-Full-body awakening exercises
-Tips for playing in a band setting
-Leadership and on-the-spot arrangements for jam sessions
-Ear training and pitch correction
-Vocal improvisation and scat syllables
-Techniques for singing with a microphone (control, dynamics)

! After each lesson, you’ll receive a PDF summary of our class and goals for our next sessions.

Whether you’re a beginner or a professional singer, we’ll work together to set and achieve your goals! <3

Quentin

4.87

(84)

Discover the Magic of Ukulele: Your Musical Journey Starts Here

Imagine yourself on a sunny beach, the ocean waves lapping against the shore, and the sweet sound of a ukulele floating through the air. The ukulele is not just an instrument; it is an invitation to a world of playful melodies and serenity.

In my ukulele course, you will be guided step by step, whether you are a beginner or have already taken some lessons. Here is what you can expect from our interactive sessions:

1. Introduction to Ukulele:

Learn about the different parts of the instrument and how to take care of them.

Learn basic chords and start playing your first songs from the first lesson.

2. Playing Techniques:

Master essential techniques like strumming and picking.

Develop your agility and precision with fun exercises.

3. Varied Repertoire:

Learn popular songs to impress your friends and family.

4. Simplified Music Theory:

Understand the basics of music theory applied to the ukulele.

Learn how to read tablature and transpose songs.

Why choose the ukulele?

Easy to learn: Just a few chords and you'll be able to play hundreds of songs.

Portable: Take it anywhere with you and play wherever you want.

Soothing: Its soft, melodious sounds are perfect for relaxing.

Join my ukulele class and let music bring joy and serenity into your life. Sign up now and start your musical adventure!

“Music gives soul to our hearts and wings to thought.” - Plato

Hiba

4.87

(84)

🎤 Find Your Voice! Join Our Singing Sessions 🎶

Ready to unleash your inner superstar? Whether you're a shower singer or a stage veteran, our Singing Sessions are the perfect place to explore your voice, build confidence, and have fun!

✨ What to Expect:

Warm-ups and vocal techniques

Group harmonies and solo opportunities

Performance practice and feedback

A fun, supportive environment!

📍 Where: [Online via Zoom"]
🕒 When: [Date/Time or "Weekly Sessions – Join Anytime!

🎶 Don’t just sing—shine. Reserve your spot now and let your voice be heard!

John

4.87

(84)

I teach online via Zoom, using software which allows you to see the exact keys I'm playing on my keyboard.

My teaching method is to focus on whatever type of music the student loves most, and to build from there. I believe that many people give up their dream of playing an instrument simply because they aren't inspired enough, so my goal is to instill a love for music, whatever that means personally for each individual student.

Everyone learns differently and has their own pace and rhythm. I have some students who like to have a regular weekly or biweekly lesson, and others who just get in touch once in a while when they have digested the previous lesson and feel ready to build on it. Whatever the case, I am very flexible and we can figure out what works best for you.

A bit about me:

Originally honing my skills on the British jazz scene and holding residencies in restaurants and bars around the country, I then went on to tour the world playing on cruise ships, hotels and festivals. I returned to London to complete my master's in jazz piano at the Guildhall School of Music, and during this time performed regularly at Ronnie Scotts, The Vortex and many other venues across the UK. I then spent two years in South America learning about salsa and Cuban music. I now mainly work as a transcriber, writing sheet music for all instruments including full Big Band scores. I have also worked extensively in musical theatre, most recently as musical director for 'Jersey Boys', and on the first US national tour of 'Summer: the Donna Summer Musical'. The video shown below is from my stint playing and directing 'After Midnight', a show set to the music of the Duke Ellington Big Band.

Leandro

4.87

(84)

PROFESSIONAL GUITARIST, COMPOSER, MUSIC AND GUITAR TEACHER

Beginner-Advanced Level

Experience:
I am a professional musician and have been teaching students of all ages for over 20 years. My experience as a teacher and my pursuit of self-improvement as a musician have led me to develop an effective method that I have already tested with over a hundred students.
Throughout my career I had the satisfaction of studying with great masters of different specialties or styles, each one emphasizing different aspects of flamenco, classical or modern guitar and each one has given me their approach (technique, rhythms, accompaniment, harmony, etc.), which has led me after years of study and compilation to take the best from each one to develop my method.

My role in my classes is more that of a personal trainer than a teacher, where I will be very attentive to bringing out the best in my students, finding the right technique to help them develop a good rhythm, working on their rhythm, etc.
For me, the role of a teacher, in addition to teaching, is to be part of a team, to maintain morale and constantly improve oneself while always maintaining a love for music.

Methodology:
I tailor the lessons to the student's level, style, or goals. Generally, the first half of the lesson is dedicated to technique, focusing on proper placement, execution, and relaxation, which will result in a good sound. Over time, I've realized that it's also a way to connect with the guitar, concentrate, and warm up. So, little by little, we'll develop our routine, which will begin by working on basic rhythmic aspects.
The second half is dedicated to playing, trying to put into practice what we learned about the technique with the sticks or studying other concerns of the student, which may be a theme, harmony, falsetas, improvisation, or even other styles, etc., always obviously taking into account the search or interest of the student.

FLAMENCO
- Flamenco technique
- Palos (Tangos, Bulerías, Alegrías, Soleá, Taranta...)
- Accompaniment to singing and dancing
- Clapping and rhythms

MODERN GUITAR
- Harmony
- Improvisation
- Repertoire (rumbas, pop, jazz, rock, etc.)

CLASSIC
- Reading, solfège and interpretation.
- Works
- I work with progressive learning books

Joaquin

4.87

(84)

Music brings joy to everyone, and guitar is one of the most special instruments. Whether it is on a family meeting, with friends, or just while being alone, the guitar is one of the most versatile instruments; you can play practically everything. Here you will learn not only the basics, but also how you can demonstrate your skills and put your emotions, feelings, and ideas on the guitar. From basic chords to playing any song you like, from soft and slow songs to improvising any solo on anything. Let's hop on a musical adventure together and let's begin to learn.

Lucio

4.87

(84)

This class is designed for conservatory students, private candidates and advanced musicians who need solid guidance in harmony, counterpoint and fugue, especially in preparation for exams and auditions.

We work on written exercises, stylistic correction and analytical understanding, with a clear method and step-by-step feedback. Particular attention is given to Renaissance and Baroque practices (modal counterpoint, species, tonal counterpoint, fugue), helping students understand why rules exist, not just how to apply them.

I have many years of experience teaching harmony and counterpoint, and several of my students have successfully passed conservatory composition exams thanks to this guided approach.

Lessons are adapted to the student’s level and goals, with a strong focus on clarity, consistency and practical results.

Lucie

4.87

(84)

A passionate violinist and professional musician, I have been enthusiastically sharing my love of music for many years, convinced that sharing is at the heart of this discipline. I teach violin, music theory, and early childhood music education at home, drawing on my experience in music schools in France and a certification from Enfance et Musique (Paris) for early childhood music education.

I offer courses tailored to each student, children and adults alike, taking into account their needs, desires and objectives, with one priority: the pleasure of playing and learning.

Violin lessons: progressive and personalized learning, with or without prior musical training.

Musical training: listening, rhythm, note reading, singing, notions of analysis and discovery of major musical periods, directly linked to instrumental practice.

Musical awakening (3 to 6 years): playful discovery of music through games, physical and sensory activities, in individual or multi-age group classes.

Feel free to contact me to discuss and create a course tailored to your needs, or to introduce your children to the wonderful world of music 🎶