Virtual Composition Lessons

Teaching composition is one of my passions. I believe that writing music is like building a piece of handmade wooden furniture—it involves craftsmanship. I love helping others learn the craft of writing music, and my goal is to help you write music of which you are proud.

My teaching is very individualized. I listen to what you want to achieve in your music and I offer suggestions based on that.

In lessons, I never want to tell you what you should or shouldn’t do in your creative work. Rather, I want to offer you options and ideas, which you are free to employ however you choose.

We often consider orchestration choices and techniques, tools for developing material, pacing, form, harmonic and melodic choices, and we might also discuss other pieces and composers to listen to and study.

In the age of Zoom, it’s possible to have virtual (online) composition lessons. All you need is a computer (or mobile device) and an internet connection.

As a teacher, I can:

• Review your compositions and provide feedback

• Help you generate compositional ideas

• Provide guidance on orchestration

• Provide guidance on music notation and score setup

• Provide guidance on Finale Software (what I use)

• Advise you on composition competitions and music schools

• Provide career-coaching advice

I’ve taught high school students, college students, and professionals. I always recommend scheduling a series of at least 3 lessons, as I have found this is the most beneficial for you, regardless of your goals. You may want a few lessons to prepare for college or graduate school applications. Or you may want lessons over the summer, or during winter break. Or, you may want to take lessons throughout the year. It’s up to you, and I’m here to collaborate on a schedule that works for you.

Lesson rates start at $65.

Here’s how to get started

Fill out the “Schedule a Free Consult” form above and tell me a little more about yourself and what kinds of lessons you’re interested in. From there, we’ll set up a free consultation to discuss your career path, current goals and projects, and ways I can help.

About me

I’m a composer and educator with over 15 years of teaching experience. I consider teaching a core element of my work as a professional composer: coaching ensembles that are performing my music, teaching classes during composer residencies throughout the US, speaking with audiences, and teaching classes at the Eastman School of Music’s Institute for Music Leadership.

My compositions have been awarded numerous national and international honors, and have been performed in major venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Sydney Opera House. Critics have called my music “attractive, unabashedly tonal and, at times, startlingly beautiful” (Miami Herald) and have praised my work as having “…sensitivity, skill and tremendous sophistication.” (Kansas City Independent)

Several of my pieces are published by major music publishers, and I self-publish the majority of my catalog. I received a B.M. in Music Theory and Composition from the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, and a M.M. in Composition from the Eastman School of Music. Read my complete bio here.

Career Coaching

If you are looking for advice specifically on career strategies, I offer career coaching through Musician and Co. I’ve advised numerous young musicians on career topics in my own practice and through courses at the Eastman School of Music. If you need someone (or some resources) to help you strategize next steps in your music career or business, consider checking out all that Musician and Co. has to offer. We’d be delighted to help you!