Improvisation for beginners and intermediates (any instrument)

From 35.52 € /h

Would you classify improvisation as composition or performance? Well actually it is both! When you improvise you are composing music on the spot, performing what you have made up at the same time as you have composed it.

For many people improvisation is a scary word and having to improvise in a group or band is an alarming prospect. However, this really does not need to be the case. As long as you have a basic knowledge of how to play your instrument you will be able to improvise. Once you know the principle of how chords are formed you will soon be improvising with ease.

The key to success is understanding chords. Once you know how chords are formed and know what notes make up a few chords you will be well on your way towards being able to improvise. We will, therefore, start by ensuring a firm knowledge of certain chords. After this we will progress to improvising a simple melody over the top of these chords. The next stage is to start using notes that are not in the chord. The process is then open ended with emphasis on developing the melody.

If you play a keyboard instrument you will be able to improvise your own pieces and be able to entertain your friends at a moments notice. On the other hand if you play in a band or a group you will be well equipped to do a real 'jam' session.

Whether you play a single line instrument (flute, saxophone, trumpet, violin etc.) or keyboard instruments, this class is for you.

Extra information

You and your musical instrument is all you need.

Location

Online from United Kingdom

About Me

Music has always been my passion. Ever since I was 13 I wanted to become a Music teacher to inspire others to enjoy creating Music. I qualified as a specialist Music teacher in 1984 and taught in a comprehensive school in England for over 34 years before taking early retirement. However, I still had a great desire to teach students from home which I continue to do via the internet.

I have played piano and violin to a high standard for many years. Whilst still a student myself I had plenty of opportunities to play in orchestras and chamber ensembles on a regular basis. Additionally I went on to conduct orchestras, bands and choirs. I have given many pupils the chance to be involved in making music in various different groups, thus enhancing their social experience of combining and co-operating with others.

My great interest in compositing music has been enhanced by having the opportunity to learn the basics of trumpet, guitar, drum kit and ukulele. I have composed in a variety of different genres including instrumental, choral/vocal, incidental music and avant garde. I have composed conventionally (using manuscript paper), using studio techniques and computers.

I have always enjoyed working with a wide range of different musical styles, catering for the interests of my students. This enables me to offer bespoke lessons to my students, demonstrating a great insight into the individuality of each person that I teach.

Education

CNAA certificate for specialist Music Teachers
B Mus (2i) Birmingham University
S level Music - 2
A level Music - A
O level Music - A
Grade 8 violin
Grade 8 piano

Experience / Qualifications

Software programs used :-
Logic Pro
Garageband
Sibelius
Personal Composer

Instruments played :-
Piano/keyboard/organ
Violin/viola
Drums
Bass guitar

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

Skills

Music composition

Jazz music

Music theory

Reviews

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -05:00)

New York

Online via webcam

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

Composing Music for instruments and/or voices(any genre)

35.52 € /h

Composing your own music has always been a very rewarding task. This has never been so true as the present day when you can hear what you compose instantly if you use computers to generate and play back your own music. However, to ensure that your music sounds really great (whether using computers, manuscript or actual instruments) there are many principles to be considered.

I have had a great interest in composing for over 45 years. I have composed for various combinations of instruments and voices in a wide variety of styles. Having been a music teacher in a comprehensive school for over 30 years, I have had a lot of very relevant experience in teaching composition to a wide range of different ages and abilities. These opportunities have enabled me to tutor students in a diverse variety of genres.

The class will be personalized to your particular standard and chosen style of composition. We would focus on generic building blocks such as structure and instrumentation as well as looking at how to develop ideas. Using a range of compositional devices will also be key to enhancing your compositions. I will tailor-make the class to suit you.

Getting to Grips with Music Theory is simpler than you think!

35.52 € /h

The theory of everything tends to be really scary and music theory can be too. I am very keen to make music theory easy for everyone. For some people there is only one way to tackle the unmentionable but I believe there are many different approaches and one of them will click with you. It is simply finding out what is best for each person. Once we find the key we can unlock the problems that have puzzled you for ages.

Music theory needs to be more than a requirement, it needs to be the way to really appreciate the music you are playing. Certain aspects can also lead to additional practical skills such as improvisation which can be very useful as well as very enjoyable.

Whether you want to understand a particular aspect of music theory or If you struggle with music theory in general, then this is the class for you - why not give it a try?

Lou-Indigo

4.87

(84)

The course that I propose is BILINGUAL FRENCH / ENGLISH, as well as 2 BOOKS.

Age and musical taste are not restrictive when in the program, you can with qualitative daily work (not quantitative) quickly observe your progress.

Here the pleasure of playing music is put forward.

The kind of music you love most will be the focus of the course, their codes and secrets will be the focus of our study, that's what I want to share with you.

We can do technical lessons and simply learn together how to play one or more songs of your choice or mine, enrich your game with this approach and your repertoire!

(For example, We can re-arrange the pieces and make them more original by approaching the system (CAGED), and enriching their chords, resulting in new positions, new techniques and new sounds, using arpeggio techniques rather than strumming for 4-chord pieces, voicing and fingerstyle techniques, in short, expanding the instrument's playing fields and playing skills to keep progressing in your game and improve your rehearsals ...)

If you make a request, this program is obviously accompanied by the pleasure of learning more in theory and being able to directly apply new knowledge on its instrument and identify its common or rare use in the pieces discussed in class.

In this case, the theory is translated to be accessible to anyone, both for those who are connoisseurs and for those who discover everything from absolute zero.
The exercises, songs, and theoretical explanations offered throughout the program are organized in an order of progressive difficulty.

I wrote and produced 2 books of my method to learn the guitar and the music, that I sell to accompany my course and your apprenticeship in the best conditions and so that you can continue the course even at home and to review etc ... .
There is ONE BOOK OF COURSES containing all the theoretical and practical program of the year, as well as a BOOK OF EXERCISE on the ranges and the modes that you can obtain directly.

You can find here an indicative list of objectives that I propose in my theoretical program, which can of course adapt to your request.

The general theoretical objectives of the course:

--- Tuning / tuning and knowing his guitar:
* Standard Tuning
* Drop Tuning
* Open Tuning
* Adjust the optimal tension of the strings
* Adjust the shaft axis
* Adjust the action of the strings
* Choose the strings adapted to the style of play / tuning
* Change his strings

-Know his chords:
* Triads: Fundamental State & Inversions
* Tetrads: Fundamental State & Inversions
* The chord progressions of the Range
* Arpeggio techniques (tapping, sweep, 1/2/4 fing.shape, etc ...)

--- Know his scales and his modes

* The Mode of the Major scale
* 3 Modes of the Minor scale: Natural / Melodic / Harmonic
* Modes of the Pentatonic range: 5 positions
* Modes of the Blues range: 5 positions
Etc ...

--- Technique to the Pick / Plectrum / Tab / Pick (Electric Guitar):
* Alternate Picking
* Fast Picking / Tremolo Picking
* Hybrid Picking
* Palm Mute
* Natural Harmonics
* Pinch Harmonics
* Artificial Harmonics
* Shredding
* Tapping
* Sweep Picking
* Legato Picking

--- Strumming / Hand Picking (Acoustic Guitar)
* "SnareDrum" percussion on the guitar
* Arpeggios pinched with 4 fingers + thumb
* Rasgueado (Flamenco Technique)
* Generic Strumming
* Fingerstyle Picking
* Two-finger picking + Legato for fast melodies (eg a solo)

-Play the metronome
* exercises on click
* practice on song riffs

-Learn his favorite songs
* without thinking about the difficulty, nothing is impossible with the right methodology

-Improvise
* choose ranges and positions
* to place oneself rhythmically, to finish on the judicious notes

-Theory of Harmony
* Understand harmonization and its practice

-Theory on the Melody

-Theory of Rhythm

Estela

4.87

(84)

Have you ever dreamed of playing the violin or viola? Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your technique, I’m here to guide you on your musical journey.

I’m a classically trained violist (and saxophonist) with a passion for teaching and a diverse background in world music, theory, and history. My lessons are tailored to your goals and interests — making learning both inspiring and enjoyable.

✨ What you’ll get:

-Personalized lessons for all levels and ages
-Guidance in technique, expression, and performance
-Opportunities to deepen your understanding of music theory & history

A supportive and motivating learning environment

🎶 Whether you want to master your instrument, build confidence as a performer, or explore music on a deeper level, I’ll help you grow as a musician in a way that’s meaningful to you.

📩 Get in touch today!
Tell me about your musical interests and what you’d like to achieve — I’d love to help you reach your goals.

👉 Let’s make music together!

Sergio

4.87

(84)

Online classes of classical, electric or acoustic guitar, bass, Venezuelan cuatro, music theory, rhythmic or harmony. Beginner-intermediate-advanced. (Skype-Zoom-Meet). 12 years of musical experience.

Book your schedule now!

Do you have a musical instrument at home and do you always wanted to learn to play it?
Are you not sure where to start?

I can help you, I am Sergio and I have 12 years of experience in the musical area. I am a student of music education at the (UPEL) Universidad Pedagógica Experimental Libertador Miranda José Manuel Siso Martínez and the Conservatory Lino Gallardo as a classical guitar interpreter. Furthermore, I also have experience teaching online classes via Zoom, Skype or Google Meet. If you think your level is beginner, intermediate or advanced, I can help you in your musical development. More than learning to play songs, musical art is a discipline and its own language that helps interdisciplinary in other areas of learning.

° Classes:
-Classic/Acoustic guitar.
-Electric guitar.
-Bass.
-Piano/Keyboard.
-Music theory.
-Solfeggio.
-Rhythmic and movement.
-Harmony.
-Venezuelan cuatro.

Giorgia

4.87

(84)

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.

Hiba

4.87

(84)

Piano, Guitar & singing sessions for all levels for kids & adults. Music theory and music education classes. I give my sessions according to the student needs and interests . I help each of my students to achieve his goal in learning music.

Bernardo

4.87

(84)

Do you want to learn how to compose your own music? Do you want to be able to express yourself and put your own thoughts in musical form? In this Classical Composition or Songwriting class, that's exactly what we'll be focusing on! You can choose to focus on composing classical music, using scores, or creating your own songs, either for you or other people to sing. You will learn music theory, learn how to use music software like reaper, ableton, sibelius or musescore, and you'll work alongside me to discover your own voice in music making.

My name is Bernardo and I am a composer from Portugal who specializes and studies contemporary classical music. I also create my own songs in a singer-songwriter style and I have made music for film and videogame.
I am currently doing a master's in Composition at the Royal Conservatoire of Antwerp where I study with Wim Henderickx. I have studied in the past with composers such as Luís Tinoco, Carlos Caires and Eurico Carrapatoso.
My works have been played in several European concert halls and I have in my portfolio works for solo instruments, chamber ensembles, orchestra and choir.

I am also currently doing a bachelor's in singing at the Royal Conservatoire of Antwerp, so if you are a singer-songwriter, we can also work on your own voice.

Jim

4.87

(84)

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.

Shehab

4.87

(84)

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

David

4.87

(84)

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.

Quentin

4.87

(84)

Discover the Magic of Ukulele: Your Musical Journey Starts Here

Imagine yourself on a sunny beach, the ocean waves lapping against the shore, and the sweet sound of a ukulele floating through the air. The ukulele is not just an instrument; it is an invitation to a world of playful melodies and serenity.

In my ukulele course, you will be guided step by step, whether you are a beginner or have already taken some lessons. Here is what you can expect from our interactive sessions:

1. Introduction to Ukulele:

Learn about the different parts of the instrument and how to take care of them.

Learn basic chords and start playing your first songs from the first lesson.

2. Playing Techniques:

Master essential techniques like strumming and picking.

Develop your agility and precision with fun exercises.

3. Varied Repertoire:

Learn popular songs to impress your friends and family.

4. Simplified Music Theory:

Understand the basics of music theory applied to the ukulele.

Learn how to read tablature and transpose songs.

Why choose the ukulele?

Easy to learn: Just a few chords and you'll be able to play hundreds of songs.

Portable: Take it anywhere with you and play wherever you want.

Soothing: Its soft, melodious sounds are perfect for relaxing.

Join my ukulele class and let music bring joy and serenity into your life. Sign up now and start your musical adventure!

“Music gives soul to our hearts and wings to thought.” - Plato

Nina

4.87

(84)

Discover the joy of singing with "Start to Sing!", a welcoming, inspiring and inclusive beginner’s class led by experienced vocalist and educator Nina. Whether you’ve never sung before or want to build confidence in your voice, this class will help you develop essential techniques like breath control, pitch, and expression in a fun, supportive environment. With Nina’s engaging approach, you can explore a variety of musical styles spanning over 100 years, from Pop, Soul, Jazz, Folk, Latin, R&B, Blues, Rock, and more—so there’s something for everyone!

No sheet music? No problem! Nina’s intuitive teaching style focuses on learning by ear and feeling the music, making singing accessible to all. Whether a complete beginner or a returning student of music, whether you dream of performing on stage or just want to sing for fun, this class will give you the skills and confidence to find your unique voice. Is it fun to play? Join now and discover your musical journey today!

John

4.87

(84)

I teach online via Zoom, using software which allows you to see the exact keys I'm playing on my keyboard.

My teaching method is to focus on whatever type of music the student loves most, and to build from there. I believe that many people give up their dream of playing an instrument simply because they aren't inspired enough, so my goal is to instill a love for music, whatever that means personally for each individual student.

Everyone learns differently and has their own pace and rhythm. I have some students who like to have a regular weekly or biweekly lesson, and others who just get in touch once in a while when they have digested the previous lesson and feel ready to build on it. Whatever the case, I am very flexible and we can figure out what works best for you.

A bit about me:

Originally honing my skills on the British jazz scene and holding residencies in restaurants and bars around the country, I then went on to tour the world playing on cruise ships, hotels and festivals. I returned to London to complete my master's in jazz piano at the Guildhall School of Music, and during this time performed regularly at Ronnie Scotts, The Vortex and many other venues across the UK. I then spent two years in South America learning about salsa and Cuban music. I now mainly work as a transcriber, writing sheet music for all instruments including full Big Band scores. I have also worked extensively in musical theatre, most recently as musical director for 'Jersey Boys', and on the first US national tour of 'Summer: the Donna Summer Musical'. The video shown below is from my stint playing and directing 'After Midnight', a show set to the music of the Duke Ellington Big Band.

Lucy

4.87

(84)

🎛️ Music Production Lessons & Creative Coaching 🎶

Want to learn how to create, record, and refine your own music in Logic Pro X? Whether you’re a complete beginner or already producing your own tracks, I offer online lessons and personalized production coaching to help you grow and elevate your sound.

If you’re just starting out, we’ll build a solid foundation:

- MIDI & audio basics
- Arrangement & structure
- Sound design & effects
- Vocal editing
- Mixing fundamentals
- Workflow tips & creative approaches

Already producing? Great — then I offer tailored production advice and feedback. You can bring in your tracks, questions, or challenges, and I’ll help you with:

- Song structure & dynamics
- Sound choices & layers
- Mix clarity & depth
- Artistic direction
- Developing your unique sonic identity

The sessions can be fully online or live, flexible, and built around your needs.

I combine my experience as a pop producer and artist with my background in classical music theory and a degree from the Conservatorium van Amsterdam (Pop).

Whether you're starting from scratch or fine-tuning a nearly finished track — I’m here to help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and creativity.

Leandro

4.87

(84)

PROFESSIONAL GUITARIST, COMPOSER, MUSIC AND GUITAR TEACHER

Beginner-Advanced Level

Experience:
I am a professional musician and have been teaching students of all ages for over 20 years. My experience as a teacher and my pursuit of self-improvement as a musician have led me to develop an effective method that I have already tested with over a hundred students.
Throughout my career I had the satisfaction of studying with great masters of different specialties or styles, each one emphasizing different aspects of flamenco, classical or modern guitar and each one has given me their approach (technique, rhythms, accompaniment, harmony, etc.), which has led me after years of study and compilation to take the best from each one to develop my method.

My role in my classes is more that of a personal trainer than a teacher, where I will be very attentive to bringing out the best in my students, finding the right technique to help them develop a good rhythm, working on their rhythm, etc.
For me, the role of a teacher, in addition to teaching, is to be part of a team, to maintain morale and constantly improve oneself while always maintaining a love for music.

Methodology:
I tailor the lessons to the student's level, style, or goals. Generally, the first half of the lesson is dedicated to technique, focusing on proper placement, execution, and relaxation, which will result in a good sound. Over time, I've realized that it's also a way to connect with the guitar, concentrate, and warm up. So, little by little, we'll develop our routine, which will begin by working on basic rhythmic aspects.
The second half is dedicated to playing, trying to put into practice what we learned about the technique with the sticks or studying other concerns of the student, which may be a theme, harmony, falsetas, improvisation, or even other styles, etc., always obviously taking into account the search or interest of the student.

FLAMENCO
- Flamenco technique
- Palos (Tangos, Bulerías, Alegrías, Soleá, Taranta...)
- Accompaniment to singing and dancing
- Clapping and rhythms

MODERN GUITAR
- Harmony
- Improvisation
- Repertoire (rumbas, pop, jazz, rock, etc.)

CLASSIC
- Reading, solfège and interpretation.
- Works
- I work with progressive learning books

Mary

4.87

(84)

Need a little extra help in music theory? Not sure how to prepare for an ensemble audition? Struggling with tough percussion excerpts? Want advice about pursuing music beyond grade school? I'm here to help! I'm a college student based in Bellingham, WA, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in music performance with a concentration in percussion. My area of expertise is in symphonic/classical music, namely a wind band/orchestra setting. I am studying music theory, ear training, and piano, and I feel comfortable offering help in these subjects through a high school level. I am an experienced performer, so I am comfortable coaching auditions and practice lessons. I have learned a lot of tips and advice from peers and mentors as well as personal experience, and I'd love to assist younger musicians in their journey!