HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR IMPROVISING SKILLS- BASIC IMPROVISATION

From 46 £ /h

This class is an introduction to basic improvisation , using the 12 bar blues as a starting point and letting students explore the possibilities of extending rhythmic ideas and how to use more notes. Takes the concept of learning to talk as a standpoint and helps students to develop improvisation skills without having to walk away from notation, whilst developing the necessary ideas needed to become more confident at improvisation.

Extra information

lessons are taught over SKYPE and Zoom and students will need their instruments. Pdf's can be sent out with each lesson on. A short course of 10 lessons to help move from no improvising skills, to becoming a more fluent thinker.

Location

Online from United Kingdom

About Me

I'm a fully qualified UK music instructor with over 25 years of experience. I am also a world-class professional musician. Although I take my music very seriously, I do make sure my lessons are fun and engaging.
I teach from beginner level right through to professional standards. Some of my pupils are working in the music industry as fellow professionals and others are also tutors. My approach is laid back and stress-free, whilst still maintaining high standards. Quite often my pupils haven't realized how much progress they've made until they play a difficult piece they wanted to master or a particular style and so on.
With being a performer I find that my passion for playing my instruments feeds back into my lessons and my enthusiasm is infectious!
I am in the process of writing a book on improvisation for beginners, which I hope to have ready around Oct 2020. These classes could help supplement the book. Most of all though ENJOY yourselves as music is an incredible gift, which can be passed on through performing and teaching.
I do help students, in particular with stage fright and overall confidence issues, and allow them to blossom into the musicians they deserve to become.

Education

University of Birmingham, Westbourne Rd Campus, Birmingham
Leeds College of Music, Leeds , United Kingdom
Nelson and Colne College, Barrowford , Nelson
Sedbergh School, Sedbergh, Cumbria

Experience / Qualifications

Postgraduate Certificate of Education - Secondary Music
Grad dip in Jazz, Pop and Classical music
A Level Music - Grade B

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

Skills

Jazz music

Music composition

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

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

Ryo

4.87

(84)

Hello,

Electric & Acoustic Guitar tuition from complete beginners to advanced.
(Also Ukulele lessons would be available if fancy)

If anyone considers taking up the guitar exams and becoming a qualified guitarist, I can back you up.

Any styles,
pop/rock/blues/jazz/funk/classical guitar, etc.
Whatever songs/riffs/comps/(16th note) strumming patterns (lead guitar/rhythm guitar) harmony and music theory, solfeggio(aural), and so on.

Lessons will be tailored to you.
it's not brain surgery. it's going to be a lot of fun!

I can travel to your house or you come to my place.
Also, Skype lessons would be available.

Lessons are always for students.
So enjoy playing the guitar and lessons to move up to the next level.

Any further questions, please feel free to ask.
Thanks for reading and look forward to working with you.
You can't afford to miss it!!

Cheers,
Ryo

Meric

4.87

(84)

Hello! I am Meric jazz singer - musician - vocal coach and public speaking trainer.

If you want to train your ear and sing those fancy notes, there is always an easy way to do that. But of course practice is vital. This class requires basic musical skills. So be sure that you are able to repeat (sing) that you hear.

Mehrad

4.87

(84)

Dive into the world of bass mastery with my comprehensive lessons! From mastering the groove to honing technique, delving into theory, harmony, and rhythm, and even mastering music reading and fretboard note names, these sessions cover it all. Drawing from years of experience, I've finely tuned the curriculum to suit every learner, ensuring a paced and organized approach that guarantees progress. But beyond just playing notes, the ultimate aim is to empower you with the knowledge of how music truly works. Together, we'll unlock the secrets of crafting your own basslines and solos, fostering creativity and musical independence that extends far beyond the confines of any lesson.

Elisa

4.87

(84)

I offer private music theory tutoring lessons to students of beginner level of different ages Depending on the student's final goal we adjust the knowledge and skills that we focus on with the student. I mostly focus on classical music theory, but can also provide an introduction to jazz and pop music theory.

My goal as a teacher is to keep and increase the students' love for music as well as to offer necessary and appropriate knowledge/skills to keep the student challenged and of course enjoy the fun of music!

Steve

4.87

(84)

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.

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.

Jermaine

4.87

(84)

Welcome to my song writing session, within these sessions you will learn

1. How to structure a song
2. How to think of topics to write a song
3. Finding and creating music to match song ideas
4. How to put words and rhymes together

My tutoring sessions are very relaxed and easy going my first approach when starting out in the sessions is finding out about my students personality and what topics they like and means the most to them, after that we will write down all the ideas they come up with and build from there until we have a finished song.I can teach a various genres of song writing techniques for example Hip Hop, Grime R&B Gospel, Soul and many more

Looking forward to teaching you
Jermaine

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

Nina

4.87

(84)

Discover the joy of singing with "Start to Sing!", a welcoming, inspiring and inclusive beginner’s class led by experienced vocalist and educator Nina. Whether you’ve never sung before or want to build confidence in your voice, this class will help you develop essential techniques like breath control, pitch, and expression in a fun, supportive environment. With Nina’s engaging approach, you can explore a variety of musical styles spanning over 100 years, from Pop, Soul, Jazz, Folk, Latin, R&B, Blues, Rock, and more—so there’s something for everyone!

No sheet music? No problem! Nina’s intuitive teaching style focuses on learning by ear and feeling the music, making singing accessible to all. Whether a complete beginner or a returning student of music, whether you dream of performing on stage or just want to sing for fun, this class will give you the skills and confidence to find your unique voice. Is it fun to play? Join now and discover your musical journey today!

Eto

4.87

(84)

Piano Classes: From the first notes to advanced repertoire, I tailor lessons to your level and goals — classical, pop, or even improvisation.

Jazz Voice Classes: Discover the freedom of jazz singing! Learn vocal technique, phrasing, interpretation, and improvisation in a relaxed, expressive way.

🧒 All ages and levels welcome – children, teens, and adults!
💬 Lessons can be in English – and I'm happy to adapt to your pace and style.

Let’s explore music together and make learning both fun and inspiring!

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

Matea

4.87

(84)

I am eager to work with you and share my biggest passion with you, and hopefully reveal new and interesting aspects of music for your own practice.

After many years of studying in ZHdK, and having students of all levels attending the entrance exams in Zürich, Luzern, and Basel, I am looking forward to prepare you to your upcoming exam or without regards to it.

Topics will include different aspects of music theory: analysis, ear training, sight reading, rhythm, score-reading, music history, etc.

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.