facebook
from87.92CAD/ h

Music Tuition available in Piano, Theory, Composition and Orchestration

I specialise in advanced Classical and Jazz Piano, Composition and Arranging, as well as fundamentals of Theory of Music for students from ABRSM Grade 5 to Diploma level. I offer substantial discounts for families and for bundles of 5 or 10 lessons.

I have a well-equipped studio with a new grand piano as well as other keyboards and music tech gear, and teach both in-person for students living in Edinburgh, and online internationally. As many of my students are from Edinburgh university, where I also teach Orchestration and Screen Composition, daytime lessons can be flexible from week to week.

My classes are helpful to students seeking to pass the higher performance and theory grade examinations, as well as to university undergraduates seeking to fill knowledge gaps and to explore composition and orchestration in greater depth. Students I have taught invariably achieve excellent results, as high as 144/150 in recent ABRSM practical piano examinations, and as high as 100% in Theory of Music.

I also teach Music Technology, specialising in Cubase DAW as well as Sibelius and Dorico scorewriter applications.

Extra information

Parents are welcome to attend all lessons for school-age students.

Location

At teacher's location: Guthrie Street, Edinburgh, UK
Online via webcam

|
Use ctrl + wheel to zoom!
+

General info

Age:
Teenagers (13-17 years old)
Adults (18-64 years old)
Seniors (65+ years old)
Student level:
Intermediate
Advanced
Duration:
60 minutes
90 minutes
120 minutes
The class is taught in:English, French, German

About Me

Since 2007 I have taught Composition and Orchestration at the University of Edinburgh. Alongside my career as an educator. I have been self-employed variously as composer, conductor, musical director and record producer for a range of international clients including Caroline O'Connor and Sir Robert Helpmann. My commissions have been performed at the Royal Albert Hall and Garrick Theatre (London), Sydney Opera House and Melbourne Hamer Hall (Australia), the Australian Embassy (New York), Sala Accademica di Santa Cecilia (Rome) and Edinburgh University.

I have been a film orchestrator, composer, and musician and possess 28 IMDb credits for feature films, television documentaries, mini-series, as well as 33 Discogs album recording credits and I have been a frequent conductor of studio orchestras such as Victorian Philharmonic Orchestra (Melbourne Symphony Orchestra). Many of the media on which I am credited have gone on to achieve critical and popular acclaim, including Los Angeles Film Festival, Indiefilms, BAFTA, Best Film Score (NZ), an Oscar, Platinum record sales and an Australian Aria Award nomination.

Stars in films I have scored include Russell Crowe, Hugo Weaving, Phil Collins, Josephine Byrnes, Lee Majors, Guy Pearce and Terence Stamp. I have worked with Torvill & Dean as arranger and pianist; I was keyboardist for over 400 performances of Andrew Lloyd Webber's show Cats (Really Useful Theatre Company) as well for Phantom of the Opera (Cameron Mackintosh Limited), and as musical director for independent productions.

Some more recent commissions have been to arrange, conduct, mix and master the vocal and orchestral music for the Glenfiddich 21yo Whisky ad campaign, which reached 1.7 million YouTube hits, and to score the music for Ruaridh M Turner's multi award winning short thriller, The Beast in the Storm. Other commissions have been to compose a new 4 movement symphony for The Orchestra of the Canongait, and a new trio for the Hindemith Trio in Parma, Italy.

Education

PhD (Music Composition) The University of Edinburgh (2012)

BMus (Bachelor of Music) The University of Auckland, New Zealand (1975)
* First. All music subject passes with Distinction (A) or High Distinction (A+)
* Winner Hollinrake Memorial Prize and Senior Scholarship for best graduate student

DipEd (3 Diplomas in Education):
* Auckland Secondary Teachers College Diploma
* DipTchg - New Zealand Department of Education
* DpTeach - New South Wales Department of Education & Training, Australia

FTCL (Composition & Performance) Fellow of Trinity College of Music, London (1977)

LMusTCL (Composition) Licentiate of Trinity College of Music London (1976)

Experience / Qualifications

Qualifications:
* PhD, BMus, DipEd, FTCL, LMusTCL

Experience:
2007- present: The University of Edinburgh:
* Teaching postgraduate Orchestration and Composition

1986-2006: NSW Department Of Education & Training:
* Teacher of Music, Software Design & Development, Information Processes & Technology

1989-2006: NSW Board Of Studies:
* Higher School Certificate (HSC) Music Examiner & Computing Studies Advisor

1995-2006: Sydney Community College:
* Lecturer – Steinberg Training Centre: Authorised Trainer in Music Technology

1984: Progeni Systems Ltd/Polycorp secondment, New Zealand:
* Computer Programmer of educational software for New Zealand schools

1979-1985: New Zealand Ministry Of Education:
* Teacher of Music, English and Computer Awareness

1979: Waiariki Technical Institute:
* Lecturer – Theory of Music (part time)

1974-1978: New Zealand School Of Music Ltd:
* Founder / Director / Teacher

1973-1974: Auckland University Conservatorium of Music:
* Lecturer, Tutor & Examiner (part time) – Harmony & Aural Training

Ask a question

Send a message explaining your needs and Derek will reply soon:
The more detail, the better.
Ex. "Hi, when are you available to meet for a lesson?"

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -05:00) Chicago
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
0
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
1
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
2
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
3
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
4
  
  
  Wednesday at 4:00
  Thursday at 4:00
  Friday at 4:00
  Saturday at 4:00
  
5
  
  
  Wednesday at 5:00
  
  
  Saturday at 5:00
  
6
  Monday at 6:00
  Tuesday at 6:00
  Wednesday at 6:00
  
  
  Saturday at 6:00
  
7
  
  Tuesday at 7:00
  Wednesday at 7:00
  
  
  
  
8
  
  Tuesday at 8:00
  Wednesday at 8:00
  
  
  
  
9
  Monday at 9:00
  Tuesday at 9:00
  Wednesday at 9:00
  
  
  
  
10
  Monday at 10:00
  
  
  
  
  
  
11
  Monday at 11:00
  Tuesday at 11:00
  
  
  
  
  
12
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
13
  
  Tuesday at 13:00
  Wednesday at 13:00
  
  
  
  
14
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
15
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
16
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
17
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
18
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
19
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
20
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
21
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
22
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
23
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
from C$87.92At teacher's location
from C$87.92Online via webcam

Good-fit Instructor Guarantee


If you are not satisfied after your first lesson, Apprentus will find you another instructor or will refund your first lesson.

Online reputation

  • Instructor since October 2024
  • Phone number verified
  • Linkedin connected

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -05:00) Chicago
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
0
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
1
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
2
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
3
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
4
  
  
  Wednesday at 4:00
  Thursday at 4:00
  Friday at 4:00
  Saturday at 4:00
  
5
  
  
  Wednesday at 5:00
  
  
  Saturday at 5:00
  
6
  Monday at 6:00
  Tuesday at 6:00
  Wednesday at 6:00
  
  
  Saturday at 6:00
  
7
  
  Tuesday at 7:00
  Wednesday at 7:00
  
  
  
  
8
  
  Tuesday at 8:00
  Wednesday at 8:00
  
  
  
  
9
  Monday at 9:00
  Tuesday at 9:00
  Wednesday at 9:00
  
  
  
  
10
  Monday at 10:00
  
  
  
  
  
  
11
  Monday at 11:00
  Tuesday at 11:00
  
  
  
  
  
12
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
13
  
  Tuesday at 13:00
  Wednesday at 13:00
  
  
  
  
14
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
15
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
16
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
17
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
18
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
19
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
20
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
21
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
22
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
23
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
from C$87.92At teacher's location
from C$87.92Online via webcam

Good-fit Instructor Guarantee


If you are not satisfied after your first lesson, Apprentus will find you another instructor or will refund your first lesson.

Share


Ondrej
Music Theory, Conducting & more
Music Theory, Conducting, Composition, Orchestration, Arranging Happy students = happy me. 'Ondrej is excellent at setting the right goal posts for your level: challenging, but not so challenging as to be discouraging. He has a discerning eye and ear and knows how to direct his advice to see immediate results.' - Lauren (student) - 10+ years experience – private & school teaching - Lessons catered to your needs and wants - Individual attention - Taught ages 5-60 - Beginner to professional - Individual & group lessons - Experience teaching students with dyslexia, helping students with injury - Student success: o graded exams o music scholarships o admittance to music colleges o playing their favourite pieces - Flexible lesson times (including weekends and evenings) - All are welcome! One of the parts of teaching I most enjoy is the variety of my students’ backgrounds and finding an individual approach that works best for each student. I always do my best to create a supportive, stress-free environment so that the students can have a really fun time learning, while encouraging them to expand their capabilities at a pace that suits them best.

Benjamin
Private piano lessons with Ben (online or in-person)
With a solid background in music education, including an A-level in music and achieving Grade 8 piano at 16 years old, I'm here to guide you on your piano journey. 🎵 Four years ago, I dipped my toes into teaching piano, and I haven't looked back since! It's been an incredible journey watching my students blossom, and I'm proud to say that many of them have aced multiple grade exams with flying colors. 🌟 As a postgraduate university student with a deep love for music, I'm excited to share my knowledge and passion with you. In our classes, we'll dive into the world of piano playing – from mastering the basics to tackling your favorite tunes. Whether you're a total beginner or looking to refine your skills, let's make some beautiful music together! 🎶

Maya
Piano Lessons (Beginner - Intermediate - Advanced) for all ages
Hello! I'm Maya - a dedicated and enthusiastic piano teacher who loves sharing the joy of music. I'm a graduate from University of Aberdeen now based in Edinburgh. I offer personalised lessons for children, teenagers, and adults—whether you're preparing for music exams or playing just for fun. With four years of private teaching experience, I'm well versed in the ABRSM syllabus, covering sight-reading, aural skills, theory, and performance training. My lessons focus on technique, expression, and confidence, ensuring progress while keeping learning enjoyable. Beginners to advanced welcome. Let's make music together! 🎶

Samuele
Piano lessons for every level, become the musician you've always dreamt to be!
Learning how to play an instrument is one of the most fulfilling experiences in life. Whether you you've never played piano in your life or you just want to improve your skills at a reasonable price, this course is perfect for you. You can pick the day you prefer and I'll make sure to give you all the help you need to achieve your goal of being a great musician!

Mona
Piano, Keyboard, Ukulele and Music Tutor - Edinburgh
Hi, I am Mona, nice to meet you! I am a third year music student at the University of Edinburgh. I believe that music is powerful. It helps us to work through and express our emotions, as well as connect and communicate with others. I look forward to making music with you! Piano I have played the piano for over twelve years and I started giving piano lessons three years ago. I have taught children as young as five, as well as adults. I mainly play and teach Classical music, but also enjoy and teach minimalist music and film music repertoire. I also have an interest in and teach improvisation on the piano. Songwriting/Composition/Improvisation I use songwriting, composing and improvising daily to express myself. This is my favourite part of music - Expectations go by the wayside, we are in flow and in the present moment. I have taught improvisation to my piano students and I have collaborated with others in writing songs as well as composing. Music Theory/Music History I enjoy the academic and theoretical side of music, hence why I chose to pursue my music studies at University. I write music reviews and articles for the Student newspaper, and I am just starting to write for an online music blog. I continue to study and write about music for my academic studies and did so throughout school, so I can help you with your GCSE/A level music!

Lydia
Piano Lessons in Classical and Contemporary Styles for Beginning-Advanced Levels (ages 6 and up)
Welcome to my piano teaching studio! I am a professional pianist offering private piano and theory lessons for students of all levels. As a pianist with over 14 years of teaching experience in Europe and the USA, as well as over 23 years of playing/performing, I enjoy motivating my students with music of their own preferred style and interest, whether that be classical or contemporary. My main goal is to promote a positive experience and love for music-making during the learning process. If the student is interested in a more structured approach, I guide preparation for grades 1-8 of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) piano and music theory exams where my students consistently receive highest marks. I also have successful experience preparing students for conservatory entrance auditions, masterclasses, and competitions in the Europe, the USA, India, and Canada. We have class concerts at Pianos Maene for interested students twice per year. I am happy to provide either a more relaxed or a serious approach to learning piano, we simply need to discuss the personal goals and preferences of each student. My own studies are as follows: I have obtained two postgraduate performance degrees at the Royal Conservatory of Antwerp: "Concertsoloist" in Piano Performance and "Chamber Music” (under the guidance of esteemed professor Sergei Edelmann). Prior to this, I received my Bachelor and Masters degrees in Piano Performance/Music from the University of Minnesota - Minneapolis (with Prof. Lydia Artymiw) and Texas Christian University, Fort Worth (with Dr. Tamas Ungar). My experience includes collaboration with many different instrumentalists and singers, performing as a soloist and collaborative member in several orchestras, and receiving top prizes in several competitions. While maintaining my performance and recording career in Belgium at present, I am developing my private music studio in central Antwerp and look forward to meeting new students.

Mary
Instrumental Teacher ( Piano, Guitar, Bass & Ukulele)
Welcome to the music class! Here, we are gonna discover the wonders of learning an instrument. From reading note letters, implementing a proper form to sight reading a piece, we are gonna learn in our own pace. If you're just learning music now and it feels like there's a lot to understand, don't worry we're gonna start from the basics. I will help you understand music and its elements. With your dedication and my guidance, I'm positive that we will get a good result!

Andrea
Let's talk about music! Musical language, harmony, composition, various analyses, music in its sociocultural context or commented readings
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.

David
(LIVE or ONLINE!) Piano, improvisation, composition and music theory lessons
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.

Julián
Lessons in piano, guitar, solfège, harmony and composition. Learn your favorite songs.
Embark on a musical journey with our comprehensive lessons. We offer courses for all levels, covering piano, guitar, ukulele, solfège, harmony, and composition. Whether you prefer theoretical, practical, or a blend of both, we tailor the learning experience to your preference. Master the techniques of your chosen instrument, delve into solfège, and explore the art of musical composition. Our lessons are designed to be dynamic and engaging, providing a structured environment for your musical growth. Discover the joy of learning your favorite songs while developing a strong foundation in music. Whether you're a beginner or looking to enhance your skills, our dedicated instructors are here to guide you on your musical journey. Enroll now and unlock your full musical potential.

Richard
Private guitar lessons for every level: from basic chords to out of the box improvisation
Hey! My name is Richard and I give private lessons to all levels. For guitar, it is important that you can improve yourself in a pleasant environment in a fun way where your interests are central. Do you want to delve deeper into a certain style? Do you want to create your own sound on your guitar using amps, and pedals, ...? I can help you with all that! Knowledge of solfège or music theory is not required, we can always discuss this in class if you wish, but that is certainly not mandatory ;) I have been playing the guitar since I was 9 years old and for several years now I have been playing in professional bands with which I have been able to play on sugar rock, for example. The lessons would take place at my home in Mol or via webcam. If necessary, we can always agree on something else. Be sure to let me know if you have any questions and I will answer as soon as possible. See you soon! Richard PS: my specified hours are a guideline, if this does not suit you, you can certainly send us a message and we will try to arrange something :)

Jim
Electronic Music Production – Ableton Live, Synthesis, Sound Design, Composition, Mixing, Mastering, and Live Performance
Hi, my name is Jim. I'm an electronic music producer with a Master’s degree in Music from the Fontys Academy of Arts (Rockacademie) in Tilburg, Netherlands. Music has always been my way of exploring the world — through raw field recordings, synthesis, and emotional storytelling. Over the past 12 years, I’ve developed a complete, self-sufficient creative process: from concept to composition, sound design to vocal production, mixing, mastering, and live performance. I’m passionate about helping others gain those same end-to-end technical skills — so they can bring their own musical vision fully to life. As Malvae, I’ve written, sung, recorded, produced, mixed, mastered, and performed all of my work. My music reached #17 in the Spotify Viral 50 charts in the USA, gathered millions of streams, and featured in international film productions including King of the Streets and Netflix’s Terrace House Japan. One of the most formative moments in my career was my Amazonas album project, where I traveled into the Amazon rainforest to record and manipulate natural sounds. 90% of that album was created entirely from these field recordings, reshaped through granular synthesis and advanced sound design into a cohesive sonic journey. That experience deeply shaped how I approach my music and how I teach sound design and composition. I’ve headlined shows at iconic venues like Melkweg Amsterdam with immersive, self-built audiovisual live sets using Ableton Live, modular gear, sequencers, and Resolume for live integrated visuals. I curated my own events and performed at venues like A’dam Tower, OT301. I also teach at studios such as Wisseloord in Hilversum, guiding students through the technical and creative intersections of sound and performance. Selected Works & Collaborations: My EP Like Bees to a Hive began as a soundscape for fashion brand Lobomar’s collection Final Orders, Please, presented at the Amsterdam World Museum. I collaborated with South African poet Julia-Beth Harris, integrating her spoken word into a seamless, atmospheric release. From sequential Prophet 6 textures to ADX1 drum machine layers and detailed field recordings, I handled every layer, from concept through multitrack production to the final live performance in London. My Chrysalis EP, released as a limited-edition heavyweight red vinyl, pushed that even further, combining ethereal vocals, analog grit, and unique textures to craft an emotionally rich release. I personally led every part of the project’s technical and creative execution, from arrangement and vocal production to final mixing, mastering and vinyl press preparation. In addition to my own projects, I’ve worked as a vocal producer and mixing engineer, including on Esther Veen’s EP Before I Go, where I handled recording, complex vocal layering, creative processing, production, multivocal arrangement and final mixing to deliver a polished, high-impact sound. About the lessons: My sessions are fully customised to your experience level, goals and grounded in real-world music production. Whether you’re just getting started or want to deepen your technical ability, you’ll learn how to develop professional workflows and the creative independence to finish what you start. We can explore: - Building advanced music production workflows and creative strategies - Recording, Composition, arrangement, and storytelling through sound - Full-stack mixing and mastering — from bedroom setups to pro-level delivery - Synthesis and sampling — from sound shaping basics to high-level manipulation - Multi vocal production, vocal recording, editing, layering, FX, and creative processing techniques - Translating your music into a compelling live set with Ableton Live - Applying music theory practically in electronic, cinematic, and contemporary music Lessons are available online or in-person at my studio in Amsterdam. For online students, I use high-quality real-time tools that allow us to collaborate with full-resolution audio directly from your DAW — no screen sharing limitations, just real work in real time. My own musical path often started by blending the sounds I encountered in the world, whether from distant rainforests or my own voice , into something personal and expressive. I found my sound that way, and I’d love to help you find yours. (And don’t worry — we won’t have to go to the ends of the earth to do it. I’ll show you how to turn the sounds you already have into something truly your own.) Whether you're just starting out or ready to go deeper, I look forward to helping you grow through structured, creative, and technically grounded electronic music education.

Mirko
GUITAR LESSON for ALL LEVELS ✨ taught by a seasoned CONSERVATOIRE PROFESSOR! 🎶
The lessons can be conducted in English 🇬🇧, Spanish 🇪🇸 , or Italian 🇮🇹 , ensuring accessibility for all students. Age and musical preferences are not limitations; with qualitative daily practice, rather than sheer quantity, progress can be swiftly observed. 💪🏼 🎶 My approach to classical guitar lessons is centered on tailoring them to each student's individual needs and potential. I prioritize fostering enthusiasm and motivation as primary tools for conveying technical and theoretical concepts, alongside a deep love for music. Lessons are open to students of all ages and skill levels. 🚀 The focus of the course revolves around the joy of playing music. Your favorite genres and pieces will take center stage, with a thorough exploration of their codes and secrets. Together, we'll delve into technical exercises and learn to play pièces of your choice or mine, enriching your repertoire and enhancing your playing style. 🤩 For example, we can reimagine pieces by applying advanced techniques such as the CAGED system, incorporating new chords, positions, and techniques like arpeggios and fingerstyle playing. This expands the instrument's capabilities and your playing skills, ensuring continuous progress and improvement. 👨🏻‍🏫 Upon request, the program also includes theoretical studies, which are presented in an accessible manner suitable for both beginners and experienced musicians. Exercises, pieces, and theoretical explanations are structured in a progressive order of difficulty.🔥 The theoretical program covers a range of topics, including guitar tuning, chord theory, scales and modes, finger picking techniques, strumming patterns, metronome practice, learning favorite songs, improvisation, harmony, melody, and rhythm theory.⚡️ Together, we'll embark on a musical journey tailored to your goals and aspirations, ensuring a fulfilling and enriching experience with the classical guitar.🔝☄️

Quentin
Learn the bass differently and intuitively
This course is above all there to make you want to play bass, let it be fun! It will be based on the practice of the instrument, on the understanding and the role of the bass. The theory will be based on the progress of the practice. Step by step, practice and theory will thus be complementary, and will necessarily be useful! Have you always dreamed of being able to play bass? it's time to get started! Let the magic of music take hold of you and become the accomplished bassist you always wanted to be! Possibility of offering this course to one of your loved ones, a very appreciated gift for people who would like to embark on a musical adventure!

Gabriele
Fundamentals of Music Theory and Solfeggio
EN: Discover the basics of music theory and solfeggio. With personalized classes, you'll learn to read and understand musical notation, develop a sense of rhythm and intonation, and acquire the skills to analyze musical pieces. Ideal for beginners and those looking to delve deeper into music theory in a practical and accessible way. ENG. Discover the basics of music theory and solfège! With personalized lessons, you'll learn to read and understand musical notation, develop a sense of rhythm and pitch, and gain skills to analyze musical pieces. Ideal for beginners and those who want to deepen their knowledge of music theory in a practical and accessible way.