Feeling musical?

Hello and thanks for visiting my blog. Bear with me as I gradually create a site that looks half decent… I don’t spend much time at a computer, but really wanted to get the word out there about my lovely music studio (really it’s a corner of my living room… but it is lovely nonetheless). I live in Oshawa, Ontario and I am offering voice lessons and piano lessons that can be tailored to the needs of each individual. I am not a strictly classical teacher but I do have the training for it and enjoy it quite a bit. In recent years, though, I’ve broadened my knowledge of music by learning to play jazz, rock, pop, folk and pretty much anything I wanted to be able to play and sing. I love improvisation on piano, and I used to think that as a classical pianist I’d never be able to do it. But it really just takes lots of time and a good ear. And I’ve learned that the more you know about music, the easier it is to improvise. So, for students learning any style at all, I strongly recommend a bit of theory. You won’t regret it! I believe a certain level of classical training is the foundation for everything else.

I continue to study music myself (a lifelong endeavor, I hope) and I know this benefits my students. I never felt that becoming a teacher meant I didn’t have to be a music student anymore. I want to be a better and better musician as well as a better and better teacher over the years.

I was taught by a lovely woman who was in her mid 80’s and the experience was life-changing. Lynne Reid was an incredible pianist and the most encouraging teacher I could have possibly found. She is the reason I do what I do. So I believe that passing on knowledge isn’t enough. We have to believe in our students and encourage them to play and sing whatever inspires them the most, no matter how big a challenge.

Well, I’ve started rambling… so I’ll wrap up this post. Please call me at (905)240-0284 for more information about lessons. You’re welcome to come for a free consultation so you know what to expect when you start lessons. There is no obligation if you call for information or come for a consultation, so why not see if I suit your learning style and anything else you’re looking for.

Keep loving life!

Ryan

P.S. A word for my fellow vocalists…

Don’t let anyone tell you that your voice isn’t an instrument. It is as much an instrument as the piano, and it is certainly difficult. So if you want to be a better singer, you’d be amazed at what vocal training can do.

P.P.S. Aspiring singers, pianists, and the parents of aspiring musicians… thanks for visiting my site. Please give me a call and see what my studio is all about.