Composition and Songwriting Lessons with a Professional Composer

From 109.18 C$ /h

This course is for students, musicians, singers, songwriters, and composers who want to develop their own musical ideas with the guidance of a professional composer. I can help you write, organize, revise, and develop your music, whether you are working on a song, a piano piece, a chamber piece, a vocal work, a composition exercise, or a larger creative project. My approach is practical, analytical, and personalized. I will not impose one single style on you. Instead, I will help you understand your own musical language, identify what your piece needs, and build the technical tools to make your ideas clearer, stronger, and more coherent.

We can work on:

• Composition technique
• Songwriting
• Melody writing
• Harmony and chord progressions
• Form and structure
• Arranging
• Counterpoint basics
• Text setting
• Writing for voice
• Writing for instruments
• Developing musical ideas
• Finishing unfinished pieces
• Score review
• Creative process and artistic direction

The first session works as a diagnosis. We review your current level, musical background, goals, references, and any material you already have. From there, we create a focused plan. You may also book 2 sessions (diagnosis and follow-up) to receive general commentary and a review on your song or music piece.

Extra information

Please bring any musical material you already have: sketches, lyrics, chord progressions, recordings, scores, MIDI files, references, or unfinished pieces.

If you are starting from zero, that is also fine. In that case, please bring a few songs or pieces you like so we can use them as references.

The first session is diagnostic and will help us define your level, goals, style, and work plan.

Location

Online from Colombia

About Me

I am a professional composer, singer, music educator, author, and academic consultant with more than 10 years of experience in music education, composition, artistic research, and one-to-one mentoring.

I teach because I believe music is not only a technical discipline, but also a way of developing attention, memory, creativity, cultural understanding, and self-knowledge. My work combines rigorous musical training with a clear, practical, and human approach to learning.

As a teacher, I work especially well with students who need structure. I have plenty of experience with students preparing for university or conservatory admission, self-taught musicians who want to organize their knowledge, composers who need feedback, and university students working on essays, thesis projects, music analysis, or interdisciplinary research.

My lessons are not generic. In the first session, I assess the student’s current level, objectives, deadlines, strengths, and gaps. From there, I design a focused plan. Depending on the student’s needs, we may work on music theory, harmony, ear training, sight-reading, composition, songwriting, music analysis, research structure, academic writing, portfolio preparation, or admission-test preparation.

We may also work with a 2-session plan to adress one specific problem or to provide feedback on your research text, music piece or artistic portfolio.

My method is based on diagnosis, conceptual clarity, guided practice, and concrete feedback. I explain complex ideas in a clear way, but I also expect students to engage seriously with their own learning process. My goal is to help each student understand what they are doing, why it matters, and how to keep improving independently.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Music, Universidad Central, Bogotá, Colombia.

Diploma in Professional Voice, Vocology Center, 2022.

Diploma in Creation and Pedagogy of Musical Artistic Practices in the Regions of Colombia, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, 2023.

Additional training in composition, contemporary music, vocal practice, music pedagogy, artistic research, cultural management, and interdisciplinary creative processes through workshops, festivals, and academic programs in Colombia and abroad.

Experience / Qualifications

I have more than 10 years of experience as a music educator and more than 8 years of professional experience as a composer for solo instruments, chamber ensembles, theatre, film, animation, and interdisciplinary artistic projects.

I am the author of the music pedagogy book I Got Music, and my work has been performed, commissioned, cited, or consulted in academic and artistic contexts in Colombia, Mexico, Panama, Ireland, Spain, and the United States.

As a composer, I have written for solo instruments, chamber ensembles, experimental formats, voice, theatre, musical theatre, film, animation, and electroacoustic media. My work includes traditional formats such as string quartet, woodwind quintet, and solo pieces, as well as less common formats such as accordion and cello, accordion and clarinet, toy piano and fixed media, and open experimental ensembles.

As an educator and consultant, I have supported students and researchers in music theory, composition, music analysis, academic writing, research structure, music pedagogy, portfolio development, and interdisciplinary projects involving music, education, psychology, sociology, design, archive documentation, and cultural studies.

I have collaborated with institutions and organizations such as Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Círculo Colombiano de Música Contemporánea, Ensamble Vasto, Taller Sonoro, and other artistic and academic projects. I am also associated with the Círculo Colombiano de Música Contemporánea, adn I am the current Treasurer, accumulating experience as a cultural manager, music festival curator and organizer, and academic speaker.

My professional profile combines composition, pedagogy, research, and cultural management, which allows me to support students not only as a music tutor, but also as a mentor for artistic, academic, and professional development.

Age

Teenagers (13-17 years old)

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Duration

90 minutes

The class is taught in

English

Spanish

Skills

Music composition

Song writing

Music theory

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

Academic Music Research Consultancy for Thesis, Essays, and Artistic Projects

109.18 C$ /h

This course is for students, artists, musicians, educators, and researchers who need expert guidance for a thesis, essay, article, research project, artistic portfolio, or interdisciplinary academic work related to music, arts, education, humanities, or culture. I can help you clarify your research question, structure your argument, organize your sources, improve your writing, review your theoretical framework, analyze musical or artistic material, and help you prepare your project for academic presentation or thesis disertation.

What we can work on:

• Defining or refining your research question
• Organizing your thesis, essay, or article structure
• Reviewing your argument and theoretical framework
• Improving clarity, coherence, and terminology
• Connecting musical examples with theoretical ideas
• Reviewing sources and bibliography direction
• Preparing presentations or defense materials
• Developing a writing, revision, or research plan

Important: I do not write your thesis or assignment for you. This is an academic support and consultancy service. I help you think, organize, revise, and strengthen your own work.

Pre-College Music Admission Preparation or Autidion review

81.88 C$ /h

This course is designed for students preparing for admission to a music university, conservatory, pre-college program, or undergraduate music program. I help students prepare the theoretical, practical, creative, and portfolio-related components of the admission process. The goal is not only to study more, but to identify the exact gaps that could affect your admission and build a focused preparation plan. My approach is structured, clear, and adapted to the student’s real objective. This course is especially useful for students who feel overwhelmed before admission exams, students with uneven theoretical foundations, self-taught musicians, singers, composers, songwriters, and applicants who need help organizing their musical knowledge before entering formal music studies.

We can work on:

• Music theory
• Harmony
• Ear training
• Sight-reading
• Rhythm
• Melodic dictation
• Basic music analysis
• Composition
• Songwriting
• Portfolio preparation
• Interview preparation
• Repertoire organization
• Study habits and practice planning

In the first session, I assess your current level, your target program, your timeline, and the type of admission test, interview, or portfolio you need to prepare. From there, we create a practical plan. I recommend a minium of 5 to 10 sessions to prepare the admission in depth, but I can also provide a 2-session programm to provide general commentary and review the admission or auditions.

Elisa

5.0

(20)

I offer private piano lessons for students of different age and levels. Depending on the student's final goal we adjust the repertoire and skills that are needed for obtaining the goal.

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

Lucy

5.0

(20)

[EN below]

Do you have a passion for music and dream of learning to sing, play the piano, write your own songs, or even discover the magic of music production in Logic Pro X? Search no further!

Together we can search for the perfect lesson content that is specifically tailored to you, so that I can always offer what you want. Multiple interests? – then we can even combine different disciplines for an even richer learning path. The lesson material is infused with my personal experiences as a professional musician in the pop industry, knowledge from previous classical piano and theory lessons, singing lessons and the insights I gained during my completed studies at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam (Pop).

Expect a professional approach during class, combined with a fun and unique teaching experience designed especially for you.

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Are you passionate about music and do you dream of learning to sing, play the piano, write your own songs, or dive into the enchanting world of music production using Logic Pro X? Look no further!

Together, let's embark on a journey to tailor the perfect lesson content to your desires, ensuring that I can always provide exactly what you're looking for. Multiple interests? – then we can even combine various disciplines for a more enriching learning experience. The teaching material is infused with my personal experiences as a professional musician in the pop industry, insights from earlier classical piano and theory classes, singing lessons and the knowledge acquired from my studies at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam (Pop).

Expect a professional approach during the lesson, paired with a warm and distinctive learning experience crafted just for you.

Giorgia

5.0

(20)

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.

Martin

5.0

(20)

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

5.0

(20)

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

5.0

(20)

A personalized approach to learning guitar and music.

I would like to help you grow as a musician in a way that matches your interests and goals. We will explore your favorite music while building technique, musical understanding, and confidence.

Whether you want to learn your favorite songs, improve your technique, develop improvisation skills, or build a solid foundation in music theory, I would be happy to help.

Lessons combine structure and flexibility, allowing you to progress at your own pace.

David

5.0

(20)

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.

Andrea

5.0

(20)

Hello! I've been teaching nonstop for over 10 years, and I'd love to tell you what a class with me offers:

100% personalized approach: The first step is to define your goals. Learning for pleasure? Preparing for entrance exams? Or taking the professional leap? I'll adapt the methodology, curriculum, and even the repertoire to your goals.

Dynamic environment (without losing rigor): Relaxed but demanding classes, where practical methods (and my irremediable sense of humor) prevail.

Hearing + Musicality + Analysis: We'll work on listening, understanding, and analyzing your musical references. The goal: for you to make artistic decisions with confidence and feel music as your own.

No stylistic biases: For me, all music is valid. We'll explore everything from classical to electronic, using each style to work on key aspects: melody, harmony, production... We'll even explore genres you're unfamiliar with together!

Important! I balance classes with concerts and projects. Although you're my priority, I appreciate the occasional flexibility to reschedule (only when strictly necessary).

If you like this approach, write to me! Learning music is an exciting journey, and I'd love to be your guide.

Giuseppe

5.0

(20)

Classical music has evolved over more than a thousand years into a rich and complex art — one that requires not only passion, but also trained listening and understanding.

In these personalised one‐on‐one lessons, you will develop your ear through:

- Ear training based on integrated solfège and musical harmony

- Essential music theory

- Writing exercises and dictations, with clear guidance on techniques to master them

- Harmonic analysis of your repertoire and other universal or personally relevant pieces

These foundations will help you:

- Grasp the function of musical elements

- Gain a clearer and fuller understanding of music

- Improve your playing and musical memory

- Improve musical reading (from musical scores)

- Express music with clarity and confidence

Whether you are:

- An amateur with an intermediate or high level

- A musician aiming to go professional

...these lessons will help you connect more deeply with music, perform with greater accuracy, and enjoy it more than ever.

According to your musical level, I will guide you through basic daily exercises using a clear step‐by‐step method:

- Each exercise lasts from 5 to 15 minutes

- Essential to practise every day for maximum efficiency

- Not overly difficult, but requires a bit of perseverance (just 10 minutes a day) to obtain the best results

📍 Available online and in‐person in Paris (preferable). But a mix of both is also possible.
🎯 Contact me today to book your first lesson and start your personalised programme.

Those who reach a high level of harmony will be able to unlock the next level: Musical form. Analysis material for advanced students.

Pietro

5.0

(20)

Hey there! Do you want to start a new hobby? Do you already play the piano and you want to improve your skills with a creative approach to the instrument? Then I think I can help you!
I can teach you basic and advanced concepts of any style on the piano (classical, jazz, pop-rock...), and if you like improvisation and jazz then we get along even better!
I offer very personalized classes based on your level and interests. My approach to teaching strongly takes the student's CREATIVITY into account, but without forgetting that a good knowledge of MUSIC THEORY and PIANO TECHNIQUE are essential.

About my philosophy in teaching music:
In a creative field like music, education is a delicate matter. I firmly believe that a teacher must do everything possible to avoid suppressing the student’s personal voice. Each of us — regardless of age or skill level — has a unique approach to music, even before touching the instrument!
My goal is to help students discover their own musical identity at the piano, drawing on my experience and offering a solid theoretical foundation tailored to their interests and level.
That said, as in any discipline, there are no shortcuts in music. Passion and dedication are essential to achieving meaningful results. Furthermore, a solid technical and theoretical foundation is indispensable, no matter your musical interests.
I look forward to sharing my deep passion for music with you. Feel free to reach out for more information!

Josephine

5.0

(20)

This course is designed to build skills in either playing the cello, music theory, ear training, or all three! If you are seeking to learn cello this course is a great place to start. I am most familiar with the suzuki books, however I am dedicated to making cello and music as widely available as I can, so if access to sheet music is a challenge I am open to pursuing alternate lesson plans.
If you are a current music student who isn't seeking to learn cello but would like support in Music Theory or Aural Skills (also often referred to as Ear Training), I am more than happy to provide tutoring in those subjects.

Enrico

5.0

(20)

My lessons are friendly, relaxed and interactive. We start from the music you enjoy and build your skills step by step.
In class we work on songs, chords, rhythm, technique and improvisation, always in a practical and musical way. Lessons are adapted to your level and goals, whether you are a beginner or already have some experience.
My goal is simple: help you understand the piano, enjoy music and feel confident playing.
Feel free to send me a message and tell me what music you love!

André

5.0

(20)

My name is Andre. I'm a professional musician with more than 10 years in the field. Despite Jazz being the main focus of my study and practice I've learned to love all genres and absorb each unique values and strengths. Having them integrated in the musical projects I've created or participated on. Projects which revolve around Jazz, Pop, Rock, Psychedelic, Electronic and Reggae.
Throughout my professional career I've worked with music schools and private students (+200). During this years I've encountered a plethora of different kinds of students, all levels ranging from kids to seniors and even a good quantity of autistic or down syndrome students, which always made me more and more interested in the art of teaching and helping people grow, by balancing challenge and empathy.

My lessons are characterized by a practical approach combined with a theoretical component, that always caters to the student's interests, stimulating their musical taste and creativity. For this, I like to go across the board with disciplines such as:
Musical Theory
Technique
Ear training
Performance
Composition
Improvisation
Band/project guidance
Study methodoly
Reportoire

My main objectives as a mentor are:

- To captivate students with music and their learning process

- To stimulate healthy learning methods based on their own goals

- To develop the spirit and discipline of self-learning.

Frequency, duration, and format depend on each student's goals.

Elena

5.0

(20)

Fully online piano assessment and focused follow-up lessons in English for serious students who want a clear professional view of their current level, their main technical-musical bottleneck and the next practical steps.

This is not a casual lesson. It is a structured professional assessment for students who practise regularly but do not fully understand why their playing still does not sound free, stable, expressive or convincing.

I am a Russian-trained concert pianist and piano educator with more than 20 years of teaching experience, international performance background, recordings, masterclasses and academic-level teaching experience.

I teach piano as an integrated system: sound, movement, rhythm, phrasing, memory, musical understanding and intelligent practice.

During the assessment, I look at the student’s playing as a complete musical and technical system:

— sound and tone quality
— body coordination and technical freedom
— rhythm, pulse and inner stability
— phrasing and musical direction
— articulation and dynamics
— reading and understanding the score
— voice balance, harmony, form and musical logic
— memory and reliability
— practice method and self-checking skills

After the session, the student receives a written summary with the main observations, the central bottleneck and a concrete practice plan for the next stage of work.

Possible formats:

1. Piano Assessment / Piano Reset
60 minutes online + written summary with a concrete practice plan

2. Piano Assessment + 4 focused follow-up lessons
After the assessment, we can continue with 4 online lessons focused on improving the main bottleneck: reading, rhythm, sound, movement, phrasing, memory or practice strategy.

Format: assessment session + 4 focused online lessons

This format can be especially useful during the summer break, before the new school year, before an exam, recording or performance, after a long break from piano, or when the student feels that regular practice is not bringing the expected progress.

The goal is not simply to add more pieces or more practice time. The goal is to understand what exactly is blocking progress and to build a clearer, more effective way of working.

Please write to me with a short description of the student’s age, level, current repertoire and what feels most difficult at the moment.

Dominic

5.0

(20)

Hey there!

My name is Dominic, and I'll be providing you with everything you need to reach your musical goals, whichever those may be.

These lessons consist of music theory, in which we'll go over the essentials (and more) for smooth coasting in the music world. Whatever your main focus might be instrumentally, or if you just want to know more about how music works, these lessons are for you!

I'm currently a piano and music theory teacher at AMT, which is an institution near my hometown. I've got a full 8 year music course (mostly focused on classical piano), which I successfully completed in 2025. I've also got a year of music teaching experience on my shoulders, as well as plenty of experience helping younglings and less experienced musicians with any difficulties they may have had over the years.

I'm currently offering online lessons and lessons at your location, as I'm going to be moving soon. Once things have settled better, other options may open up.