Learn the basics of music theory / Private lessons in music theory and music history

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From 28.93 $ /h

With over ten years of experience as a teacher of music foundations, music theory and children's music, I am committed to teaching the younger generations the basics of music theory. My pedagogical approach, both structured and creative, aims to awaken their passion for music while developing their fundamental skills.

Extra information

Have a stable internet connection and something to write with.

Location

Online from Burkina Faso

About Me

I am a passionate and versatile teacher, with a pedagogical approach that combines academic rigor and kindness. With ten years of experience in teaching music, music theory and the fundamentals of music for children, I strive to transmit my knowledge in an accessible and personalized way, always adapting my methods to the needs and objectives of my students.

My training in philosophy, social sciences, and theology has allowed me to acquire a broad and enriching vision of teaching in general, and music in particular, where theory and practice intersect. As a piano and music theory teacher, I have had the chance to work with students of all levels, from beginners to advanced students, in varied environments, including at the National Institute of Artistic and Cultural Training and the Grand Chœur Polyphonique de Ouagadougou, where I also contribute as an organist and trainer.

My goal is to create a dynamic and creative learning environment, where each student feels encouraged and motivated to progress. Through interactive teaching and attentive listening, I am committed to guiding my students towards their personal and artistic development, integrating elements of reflection and critical analysis that enrich their journey.

Education

Music Diplomas - Piano Option
Professional Qualification Certificate in Music and Professional Certificate of Music Technician
Institution: National Institute of Artistic and Cultural Training, Ouagadougou
Dates: 2020 and 2021

Master in International Relations and Global Politics, specialization in Digital Diplomacy
Institution: SWISS UMEF University of Applied Sciences, Geneva, Switzerland
Dates: Ongoing since 2023

Degree in Philosophy
Institution: Saint Thomas Aquinas University, Ouagadougou
Dates: 2014-2017

Theology (Canonical License Level)
Institution: Major Seminary of Saint Peter Claver of Koumi, affiliated with the Urbaniana University of Rome
Dates: 2017-2022

Additional Certifications
Project Management: University of California, Irvine
Conflict Management: OpenClassroom
Engineering ethics in digital: National Institute of Applied Sciences of Lyon
Prevention of Radicalization and Violent Extremism: Institute of Strategy and International Relations

Experience / Qualifications

My professional career reflects a diverse and rich experience, marked by a constant commitment to the fields of culture, teaching, and project management.

Teacher of Philosophy, Music and Music Theory
Since 2015, I have been teaching various disciplines, ranging from philosophy to musical practices. As a philosophy teacher, I support my students in exploring fundamental concepts, critically analyzing classical texts, and applying philosophy to contemporary issues. At the same time, I have taught piano practice and music theory, notably at the National Institute of Artistic and Cultural Training, as well as at the Grand Chœur Polyphonique de Ouagadougou, where I also work as an organist and trainer.

Cultural and Development Projects Manager
As a project manager for the Grand Chœur Polyphonique de Ouagadougou, I acquired solid experience in cultural project management, proposal writing, and communication with investors. My responsibilities also include content creation and visual design, thus contributing to strengthening the visibility of the organization. This role allowed me to develop my skills in coordination and team management, in a context where culture and music are levers of social development.

Secretary General in Charge of Projects – Culture Arts and Music Academy
In my current role, I am responsible for developing educational and cultural projects, with a focus on the artistic education of vulnerable children. My role includes preparing advocacy and supporting young people in reintegration projects, which allows me to combine my sense of pedagogy with my commitment to social inclusion.

Community Manager and Content Creator
I also worked as a Community Manager for the MyKenz platform, where I managed content and created digital marketing training for innovators. This position allowed me to strengthen my skills in digital communication, advocacy, and graphic design, which I use to promote cultural and social initiatives.

Other experiences in Project Management and Awareness
As a program intern at the National Network of Associations involved in the Health Sector, I participated in the development of humanitarian projects and the monitoring of awareness campaigns. I also supervised initiatives to support vulnerable women and children, particularly during times of health crisis, demonstrating my commitment to social and humanitarian issues.

Age

Children (7-12 years old)

Teenagers (13-17 years old)

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Duration

60 minutes

The class is taught in

French

English

Skills

Music theory

Music theory lessons

Music history

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

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

Denise

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My name is Denise and I'm a professional singer with a singing master's degree from Catalonia's Music College (ESMUC) specialized in Historical Singing, Musicology and Music Education.
My experience runs mostly in early and chamber music, nevertheless I also have the experience and knowledge of popular musical styles such as Latin-American folk, jazz and musicals.
As a docent or vocal coach I've collaborated with different academic institutions and private artistic projects, focusing mostly on international students or social integration programs.

My main goal is to help the student discover her or his voice while enjoying making music.
No experience is needed, just bring your enthusiasm and favorite music.
Classes can be given either in English, Spanish, French or Deutsch.
There is no limit for styles, bring your favorite music and I will provide a safe environment for your personal and musical growth.

It will be a joy to listen to you.
Denise

Estela

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(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!

Quentin

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(84)

This course is primarily here to make you want to play the bass, so that it is a pleasure! It will be based on practicing the instrument, on understanding and the role of the bass.

Theory will be based on the progress of 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!

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

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

I am also here to advise you on the equipment you might need.
Advice on choosing an amplifier that suits your needs and fits your budget.
Choosing your first guitar, bass or ukulele, according to the criteria you want.
Also for small equipment, jack cables, plectrum/pick, tuner or instrument stand.

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!

Natia

4.87

(84)

Hello!

I’m Natia, a lifelong music enthusiast with a deep passion for sharing the transformative power of music. My journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance from Tbilisi State Conservatoire, followed by a Master’s degree from Zurich University of the Arts. Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of nurturing budding musicians, having started teaching when I was just 16 years old.

My teaching style is dynamic and tailored to your unique goals. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of Classical music, the charm of Jazz, or the rhythm of Pop, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Together, we’ll unlock your potential and transform your love for music into a lifelong skill.

No matter your level of experience, all you need is motivation, determination, and a little time to practice—I’ll take care of the rest!

Let’s make music together and bring your passion to life. 🎵

Frederic

4.87

(84)

A conservatory graduate and music theory teacher gives piano lessons.
All styles combined (classical, rock, accompaniment piano, etc.)
Method suitable for the little ones 4-5 years old
First course without obligation.

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.

Ana

4.87

(84)

One very supportive piano teacher whose main goal is to make you love music and piano playing, and enjoy your time at the instrument!! :)
I am an graduated pianist from Croatia getting my second diploma at Liszt Ferenc Academy in Budapest. I am here to help you learn piano or improve your piano skills. I am teaching also any genre apart from classical music, on any level. I have grand piano at my apartment, but I am also open to come at your home or teach you online. I am looking forward to help you! :)

Sebastián

4.87

(84)

At my studio my students will not only learn how to play the piano, but they will receive a complete musical education in order to achieve their musical dreams. I will give all my best so everybody will get the tools for developing their own voice, helping them to master the instrument and teaching them all the theoretical knowledge they’ll need to make their particular personality shine. Openness, joy, dedication, creativity and passion for music are some of the things that you will find in the international environment of my studio. I care about who my students are and what they have to say to the world, and I will help them to develop it from the very first lesson.

In my class you will not only be able to receive piano lessons but also will learn to understand how the music works as a language. If the interest and the profile of the student goes in the direction of the purely classical music performance, the lessons will be focused on a deep and conscious piano technique development, practicing techniques, musical interpretation, history of music, history of the piano, applied harmony on the keyboard, analysis, and score reading by a method that I have developed for over 15 years of experience. And if the students wish, I can help them to prepare for the ABRSM exams and competitions as well. All this is aiming to achieve in a very practical and exciting experience the best results in the fastest way possible. But if the profile and the interests of the students goes on another way, I will give them all the tools they need to understand the language of music in depth, so they can find their own voice on the instrument. In that case the lessons will include contents of piano technique, score reading, applied harmony on the keyboard, composition, improvisation, musical arrangement, music production, recording techniques, jazz and pop music analysis and performance. Both programs can be combined depending on the focus and the profile of the student, or in case the student would like to go deeper in one of the previously mentioned subjects there is the opportunity to take an independent course of specialization on the desired topic. At the end of the semester every student will perform at the winter and summer concerts held every year and will have the possibility of making a recording session with the material worked during the term. With this, the student will not only be able to see his progress and work, but also will give him a direct experience of performing and working on a live or studio recording session, which is a fundamental part of the developing process of every musician.

Hope you can join and if so, I’ll be very happy to teach you!

Martin

4.87

(84)

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

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.

Steve

4.87

(84)

Sometimes you can sit in a music lesson with your class mates and feel completely baffled as to why others are 'getting it' and you are not! If you are wanting some extra help in preparing for a music exam or even wanting to feel more comfortable with the rest of the class then this class is right up your street. Alternatively, if you would like some extra advice on performance techniques then I can help. Perhaps you are struggling with your composition tasks - that is my speciality. Then there is the analysis of a piece of music that can be so confusing that we could spend some valuable one-to-one time on. I am here to help and below are some reasons why I am well suited to give you the appropriate advice that you need.

I worked in a comprehensive school teaching music for over 35 years. In that time I engaged with many different exam boards at GCSE and A level delivering a range of different courses. This experience and my passion for all aspects of music, whether it be performing, composing or listening and analysis enables me to give you the right advice. Whatever you need help with, I am very keen to be able to offer my expertise in any or all of these areas. Each of the three disciplines is intrinsically connected with the other two and having a good grasp of all three will enable you to improve your ability overall.

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.

Pietro

4.87

(84)

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!