Music lessons: Santoor (santour-santur)/ Persian-Iranian classical music

From 61.55 £ /h

My teaching approach blends traditional principles with contemporary methods to cultivate a deep understanding and appreciation of music. Emphasizing both technical proficiency and artistic expression, I aim to empower students to explore their musical identities while honoring cultural heritage and embracing innovation.

Beginner Level:

Duration: Approximately 12 to 20 months / 1 hour of lessons per week

Foundations of Music Theory: Delve into the fundamentals of music theory, exploring instrument structure and the significance of Western notation. Through historical context, understand the evolution of notation systems and their relevance today.

Introduction to Musical Repertoire: Utilize beginner-level music books to develop precision in note execution and rhythmic accuracy. Implement concrete listening exercises to enhance comprehension of musical concepts, encouraging students to analyze and express their interpretations in class.

Body Mechanics and Focus: Teach proper posture, breathing techniques, and mental focus during musical performance to instill healthy habits and optimize learning.

Intermediate Level:

Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 years / 1 or 2 hours of lessons per week

Advanced Music Theory: Progress to advanced studies and technical pieces, emphasizing fluency in Western notation while integrating verbal instructions for nuanced musical expression.

Exploration of Persian Music Traditions: Introduce the Radif, a practical repertoire of Persian music, emphasizing oral transmission to foster a deeper connection with tradition.

Modal Understanding and Improvisation: Deepen comprehension of modal systems in Iranian music through listening exercises and hands-on improvisation. Encourage memorization and performance based on modal precision and musical logic.

Performance and Recording Experience: Provide opportunities for students to showcase their skills through concerts and professional recordings, offering guidance and feedback to enhance their musical journey.

Higher Level:

Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 years / 1 or 2 hours of lessons per week

Comprehensive Modal Exploration: Facilitate a comprehensive exploration of Persian modal systems, guiding students through interpretation and analysis of diverse musical repertoire.

Composition and Modulation: Introduce composition exercises rooted in the rhythmic and modal frameworks of Iranian music. Explore modulation techniques in improvisation, guiding students through progressive stages of mastery.

Integration of Tradition and Innovation: Encourage students to draw upon Persian mysticism and cultural aesthetics in their musical expression, fostering a holistic understanding of tradition while embracing innovation.

Additional Notes:

My teaching methodology integrates western music theory with the rich traditions of Iranian music, offering a balanced approach that accelerates learning while preserving cultural authenticity.

Beyond technical proficiency, I strive to instill ethical values, appreciation for Persian poetry, and a sense of artistic responsibility in my students, nurturing well-rounded musicians with a deep connection to their craft.

Location

Online from Finland

About Me

I'm Mehrnoosh, a professional musician, composer, and Santoor player currently based in Finland. With over two decades of experience mastering the Santoor, a traditional Persian instrument known for its rich folk modes and ‘Dastgâhs.’ My musical journey began at the University of Tehran, College of Fine Arts, where I earned both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music performance, graduating as the class valedictorian.

While my roots are deeply grounded in Persian traditional music, my interests have expanded to include modern contemporary music in recent years. This shift has led me to explore innovative projects that fuse electronic sounds with the traditional Santoor melodies. Currently, I'm pursuing my second master’s degree at the Sibelius Academy in Finland, reflecting my commitment to lifelong learning and musical growth.

My artistic vision revolves around sharing the beauty of Iranian music with the world by seamlessly blending traditional elements with contemporary influences. I've had the privilege of participating in esteemed festivals like Etnosoi, Oulu Festival, and Nomads Festival in Finland, collaborating with renowned professors worldwide.

Throughout my career, I've been honored with numerous awards in both contemporary and traditional music, including recognition from prestigious competitions like the Gilgamesh International Composition Competition and Reza Korourian’s Composition Competition. Additionally, I've authored several publications, including albums, singles, and books.

Education

MASTER OF GLOBAL MUSIC HELSINKI, FINLAND
Sibelius Academy PRESENT

MASTER OF MUSIC, PERFORMANCE OF PERSIAN MUSIC TEHRAN, IRAN
University of Tehran, College of Fine Arts 2018

BACHELOR OF MUSIC, PERFORMANCE OF PERSIAN MUSIC TEHRAN, IRAN
University of Tehran, College of Fine Art

Experience / Qualifications

Over 20 years of playing Santoor.
Bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music performance.
More than 10 years of teaching experience.
Versatility in Persian traditional and contemporary music.
Pursuing a second master’s degree at the Sibelius Academy.
Participation in international music festivals.
Collaboration with renowned professors.
Recipient of national and international music awards.
Authorship of numerous music publications.

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

Persian

Skills

Music teacher training

Sound (music)

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -04:00)

New York

Online via webcam

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

Natia

5.0

(1)

Hello!

I’m Natia, a lifelong music enthusiast with a deep passion for sharing the transformative power of music. My journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance from Tbilisi State Conservatoire, followed by a Master’s degree from Zurich University of the Arts. Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of nurturing budding musicians, having started teaching when I was just 16 years old.

My teaching style is dynamic and tailored to your unique goals. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of Classical music, the charm of Jazz, or the rhythm of Pop, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Together, we’ll unlock your potential and transform your love for music into a lifelong skill.

No matter your level of experience, all you need is motivation, determination, and a little time to practice—I’ll take care of the rest!

Let’s make music together and bring your passion to life. 🎵

Camille

5.0

(1)

Folk or classical acoustic guitar.

The teaching philosophy is adapted to the level of each individual, according to the pace of work and motivation.

For example, for beginners: Technique of the plectrum or fingers, coordination and correction of the right and left hand. Learning basic chords, simple themes, simple rhythms, reading tablatures (...).

For intermediaries: development of rhythm, construction of chords, writing of tablatures, basic notions of harmony (...).

Depending on your goals, you can learn, if you wish, to play 60 to 80% of current music from the first lessons, which often use the same chords and the same techniques. The objectives take into consideration the following points:

-Study of various playing techniques, chords, harmony, music of your choice, rhythm, with reading of tablature, teaching structured around the repertoire you like, technique of developing the musical ear
- Discovery of the neck, notes and basic positions of open chords
- Left / right hand coordination and rhythm exercises for the right hand
- Learning of different pieces of your choice
- Left hand control exercises, speed and precision
- Learning arpeggios
- Work around muscle memory
- Learning improvisation, musical play with others
- Ear training: use your ears to find chords, melodies, sounds and techniques used
-Spend a pleasant moment of exchange, without unnecessary institutional pressure, while obtaining concrete results
-Understand and discover the many facets of an exciting and user-friendly instrument
- Benefit from personalized advice on your posture and certain pitfalls to avoid when starting alone
-Adjust and clarify your self-taught knowledge
- Learn tablatures / tabs & in English.

Note :
- Possibility to use the guitar available on site, during the test phase.
- As our teacher is also a singing teacher, it is possible to combine the two disciplines: guitar + vocal instrument, and to work on synchronization, style and accuracy.
- Possibility of offering this course (birthday, party, Christmas, event ...) to the person of your choice.

THE TEACHER :
Trained in Grande Ecole post-preparatory classes & Ivy League university in the United States, our teacher has specialized and has worked for more than 15 years, in Europe and North America, in the field, in renowned international public and private establishments, with careful pedagogy and methodology as the watchwords.

PLACES :
- Locations: Geneva-Lausanne-Friborg-Neuchâtel-Montreux-Bâle-Sion-Sierre-Morges-Bienne. But currently, only by videoconference in accordance with national recommendations on Covid. These sessions also seem to be perfectly unanimous since they have the advantages of direct (example: quality of the interaction), without its disadvantages (ex: loss of travel time), with additional advantages (ex: of notes on the chat, which can be reread afterwards). In this context, these videoconference sessions for which you have requested me, seem to arouse a certain enthusiasm (and a certain enthusiasm). At your request, I therefore continue to offer them.

Santiago

5.0

(1)

Learning to play the guitar can be an amazing experience at every stage of the process! My ultimate goal is to help my students to develop their skills and musical understanding by learning and playing music that they like.

Therefore I adapt my teaching methodologies to the tastes and needs of every student. Throughout every lesson, we will work on three main courses of development: technical aspects, theoretical knowledge, and performative practice.

My classes are open for anyone who would like to enjoy exploring the universe of music: beginners and advanced, children and adults, you are all welcome to book the first lesson.

Damián

5.0

(1)

The Tecla y Música Workshop is a space designed to learn and develop your musical and expressive sense through the piano and / or keyboards.
The main objective is to learn to make music and enjoy the learning process and its results.
The material with which we work (songs, instrumental pieces and exercises) is mainly oriented to your musical taste, and the choice is based on gradually expanding your technical and expressive possibilities, while exploring different musical styles.
In this way, different tools are being incorporated to achieve, in a short term, mastery and fluency over the musical language and the instrument.
Given that each student has different interests and concerns, whether playing as a hobby or developing a professional career, composing, improvising, etc., the orientation of the classes is built according to the possibilities and particular needs of each case.
The work proposal implies a weekly class frequency to achieve optimal work dynamics and that the results are visible in a short term.
There is also the possibility of taking isolated classes in order to solve a specific objective such as developing and perfecting some particular aspect of music practice and / or theory as well as preparing instrument exams or theoretical subjects for institutions of musical studies.

Nikola

5.0

(1)

In just 4 weeks, I will take you... yes, YOU, with zero experience, no “music talent”, no clue where to start, and show you exactly how to play the songs you love... step by step... Just like I’ve already done for over 200 students before you.

What If I Handed You The Exact Tools, Secrets, And Proven Methods To Finally Master The Accordion... And Made Sure You Actually Used Them?

Listen, you don’t need to be “born with talent.” You don’t need to start young. And you sure as heck don’t need to figure this out alone.

Here’s what you’ll get when you step inside the Accordion Joy Academy:

✔️ Private access to our inner circle community. The place where accordion lovers, from total beginners to seasoned players, share victories, swap tips, and lift each other up.
✔️ The secret techniques to play with virtuosity, even if your fingers feel like sausages right now.
✔️ Complete lesson recordings, sheet music, video breakdowns, playlists, and books, all at your fingertips, so you’ll never feel stuck or lost again.
✔️ A rich, exciting repertoire built around classical gems, but customized to your taste. Want tango? Folk? Movie themes? You got it.
✔️ Music theory made simple, practical, and 100% tied to what you’re actually playing. No fluff. No lectures.
✔️ Speed-learning strategies that help you tackle new pieces faster than you thought possible.
✔️ Clear, motivating goals and a roadmap to get you from where you are now to where you dream of being.
✔️ Study schemes and practice blueprints, designed to squeeze every drop of progress out of the time you have.
✔️ Performance coaching so you don’t just “play notes”... you tell stories through your instrument.
✔️ Weekly working schedules, study guides, to-do lists and action plans. No guesswork. Just follow the plan and watch yourself improve.

This is a rebellion against the idea that you have to be “born talented” or “start at age 5” to become a musician.
I’ll prove it to you.

Why Settle for One Style... When You Can Master Them All?

Most beginners stop at one song... one style... one small win. Not here. Not you.
Because once you learn the system I teach... You won’t just play music, you’ll travel the world without leaving your home...

🎻 Baroque – Music that once echoed in royal courts. You’ll command it like a master.
🎹 Classical – The greats. Mozart. Beethoven. You’ll whisper their language through your bellows.
💃 South American – Think tango, milonga, the kind of rhythms that seduce people off their seats. (Warning: May cause spontaneous dancing.)
🎬 Pop & Movie Music – Themes that make people cry, smile, and remember. Everyone knows these tunes... and now, they’ll know you can play them.
🎩 Musette – That dreamy, nostalgic sound from a smoky Paris café. You don’t just play Musette, you paint a picture.
🎺 Klezmer – Raw. Soulful. Sometimes sad, sometimes wild. Always unforgettable.
🎷 Jazz – This isn’t “just notes.” It’s attitude. It’s freedom. You’ll feel it in your bones.
🍀 Irish Folk – Fast, fun, and full of character. You’ll be grinning every time you squeeze out a reel or jig.
🏴‍☠️ Scottish Folk – Stirring. Bold. Warrior music with soul. You’ll feel it in your chest.
🥁 Balkan Folk – Offbeat rhythms and wild melodies that dare you to stay in your seat.
🧠 Contemporary Classical – Modern, expressive, and unlike anything you’ve heard before. It’s where the old world meets the new.

And when they hear you play... they’ll ask, “Where did you learn to do that?”

You’ll smile... because you’ll know.
It started right here.

Hi, I'm Nikola, Your Teacher.
I wasn’t born with a gift.
At five years old, I picked up an accordion that was almost bigger than me. I didn’t know it then, but that single moment would shape the rest of my life.

Since that day, I’ve dedicated over two decades to mastering this beautiful, misunderstood instrument. And along the way, I discovered something powerful, you don’t need to be born with talent, perfect timing, or a famous last name to make music. You just need a little courage to start... and the right guide to help you along the way.

In 2020, I graduated from the prestigious ArtEZ Conservatory in The Netherlands with a degree in accordion teaching. But truth be told, most of what makes me the teacher I am today didn’t come from a classroom. It came from the stage. From competitions. From the nerves before a performance and the applause that follows. I’ve been honored to win the Dutch National Accordion Competition. Twice. But what matters more is this:

I know exactly what it feels like to think something’s too difficult.
I’ve seen students who thought they were too old, too inexperienced, or too busy. People who believed music wasn’t for them, until they realized it was.

That’s why I created Accordion Joy Academy. Because whether you’re 5 or 75, whether you’ve played before or not, you can learn to play the accordion. And I’ll prove it to you.

If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking, “I wish I could do that”, now’s your moment.
I’ll meet you where you are, and together, we’ll turn those old doubts into music.

30 Days from Now... You'll Be Playing Your First Song, Or You Get Every Cent Back.

It doesn’t matter if you’ve never touched an accordion in your life... or if you haven’t learned something new in years... Because with my step by step method, you will play your first song in just 30 days, proudly, confidently, and with a smile on your face.

And if you don’t? If you try and it simply isn’t for you? Just let me know. I’ll refund every penny.

Because at this stage in life, you deserve more than empty promises. You deserve real joy, real results, and a risk-free way to experience both. Let’s make these next 30 days start of something beautiful.

Mayssa

5.0

(1)

I offer comprehensive and specialized lessons in Arabic and Oriental music, designed to help students build a strong musical foundation that combines theoretical understanding with practical performance. The course follows a clear, progressive methodology, adapted to each student’s level, background, and personal goals.

Course Content:

🎵 Oud

Introduction to the instrument, posture, and plectrum (risha) technique

Study of fundamental and advanced Arabic maqamat

Understanding maqam pathways and modulations

Free and rhythmic improvisation (taqasim)

Performing traditional pieces and selected Arabic songs

Developing authentic Oriental musical expression

🎹 Keyboard

Applying Arabic maqamat on the keyboard

Finger technique and hand coordination

Accompanying vocals in an Oriental style

Distinguishing between Western and Arabic scales

Practical use of Arabic rhythms and modes

🎼 Solfeggio & Sight Reading

Step-by-step music reading skills

Ear training and melodic recognition

Rhythmic and melodic exercises

Improving intonation and avoiding off-pitch singing or playing

Connecting hearing, voice, and instrument

📚 Music Theory

Structure and theory of Arabic maqamat

Oriental rhythms and rhythmic cycles (iqaat)

Melodic phrasing and musical form

Musical analysis of Arabic repertoire

Fundamentals of composition and melodic development

Teaching Approach:

Progressive and structured learning path

Clear explanations supported by practical examples

Application through well-known Arabic songs

Personalized exercises for each student

Continuous guidance and performance evaluation

Who Is This Course For?

Absolute beginners with no musical background

Students seeking a solid academic foundation

Hobbyists aiming to improve their skills

Musicians wishing to deepen their understanding of Arabic music

Miriam

5.0

(1)

Are you in love with the sound of the cello but have never dared to start playing it?
Have you been playing the cello as an amateur and now need an expert to guide you?
Do you want to develop and improve your cello and musical skills?
Do you need reinforcement lessons?
Would you like to prepare for entrance exams to the conservatory?
Would you love to join a youth orchestra and need help preparing for the auditions?
...
These are the private cello lessons you were looking for!

My name is Miriam, I am a graduate in Master of Classical Music at KASK & Conservatorium in Ghent.
I've been teaching cello to children, teenagers and adults for 10 years, so I've acquired the necessary experience to be able to adapt to the different and personal needs and objectives of each student. My teaching methodology focuses on creating a friendly and relaxed environment (which does not mean undemanding!) in which students feel confident to express their own ideas and worries. In my lessons I focus on technical and postural questions, but we also reflect together on the music, as I like my students to develop their own musical ideas and not just imitate the teacher.

Contact me now to schedule your first lesson and take the first step toward your musical aspirations! :)

Jun

5.0

(1)

In piano lessons, we use the book method of Notus or Hal Leonard.
Everything is explained step by step and you gradually learn to read music and know the piano.

At the start of our lessons we'll take a look at what is important to you. What goals do you want to set, and what feels achievable and comfortable?
We set long-term goals of, for example, a year. Completely tailored to where you are at, right now.

During the lessons I am patient, motivating, encouraging, and complimenting. I'll point out what could be better, and also pay attention to how you can play more easily. And much more. Tailored to your needs and wishes.

Shubha

5.0

(1)

Hii,
I’m a professional vocal coach specializing in Hindustani Classical Music Vocal and Voice Therapy which improves Vocal cords and singing voice and Bollywood songs, Thumri, Ghazal, Light Classical Music etc. With a strong background in vocal training, I bring professional expertise and a love for Indian music to each of my lessons. I focus on building a strong foundation in the essential techniques of Hindustani classical music, helping students develop breath control, pitch accuracy, and voice modulation—all essential elements that also enhance Hindustani Classical Music with Bollywood singing.

In my classes, students can expect a mix of traditional and modern teaching methods. I incorporate voice exercises, rhythmic drills, and raga practice to strengthen your musical skills, whether you're just starting or looking to refine your style. I also enjoy making the lessons interactive and fun, using familiar Bollywood songs to illustrate classical techniques, so students can relate the skills they’re learning to their favorite music. Each lesson is tailored to fit the student’s unique goals, whether you aim to perform, deepen your musical knowledge, or simply enjoy singing with confidence.

My approach is relaxed and encouraging, creating a supportive environment where students feel comfortable with their vocal journey.

I’m here to help you find your voice—let’s make some music together!

Pranav

5.0

(1)

Sound healing, also known as energy medicine, is recognized as one of the fastest holistic healing techniques, using specific sound vibrations to promote relaxation, balance energy, and support both physical and mental wellness. Techniques such as sound baths, chakra healing, and full body sound healing therapy are used to help address various conditions, including stress, anxiety, pain, and even some chronic diseases.

Sound healing operates on the principle of resonance and vibrational medicine, where specific frequencies interact with the body on a cellular and energetic level to restore harmony. The body, being largely made of water, conducts these vibrations effectively, allowing sound to impact tissues deeply and trigger physiological responses such as endorphin release and pain relief.
Techniques and Applications
Sound Bath: Involves immersion in the soothing vibrations of instruments like singing bowls and gongs, inducing a deep state of relaxation and meditation.

Chakra Healing: Targets the body’s energy centers by using sounds matched to each chakra frequency, aiding in emotional release and energy flow.

Therapy for Diseases: Some studies and practitioners report benefits of sound healing for conditions like high blood pressure, insomnia, chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, and even support through cancer and behavioral disorders.

Full Body Healing: Promotes overall wellness by balancing mental, physical, and spiritual health, leaving individuals feeling refreshed and at peace.

Benefits of Sound Healing
Reduces stress, anxiety, tension, and fatigue.

Improves mental clarity, emotional well-being, and sleep quality.

Enhances blood circulation, lowers blood pressure, and supports natural healing.

Balances chakras, promotes deep relaxation, and fosters a spiritual sense of connection.

Sound healing is generally considered safe for most people, but those with certain sound sensitivities, epilepsy, or pregnancy should consult with practitioners before sessions.

Lilian

5.0

(1)

The violin is a versatile and expressive instrument that excels both solo and in ensembles. In this lesson, you'll learn to play the violin step by step, focusing on note reading, posture, bowing technique, and rhythm.

We'll work on pure intonation, a relaxed playing position, and musicality, so you can confidently make music together. The lessons are practical and tailored to your pace, with room for fun and growth.

James

5.0

(1)

This class is for aspiring composers, musicians, and anyone who wants to learn how to write your own music! After we determine your goals, I'll support you in developing your skills in melody, harmony, orchestration, and more. As a conservatory-trained composer and producer, I have written and worked in a variety of styles, including classical, film music, avant-garde, electronic, pop, and folk - no matter what your style is, I'll help you bring your music to the next level!

If your child is afraid of teachers, sometimes you the parent needs to teach the lessons yourself to your child.

Music is not intimidating as long as you know the basics and practical use and application using basic instruments.

This course is for parents (grandparents) who wants to teach their own child (grandchildren) Music themselves.

1 on 1 or online lessons, we can work this out.

Carles

5.0

(1)

I teach both those preparing for conservatory entrance exams and beginners wanting to enter the world of music. I complement instrumental instruction with the necessary theoretical foundations.