Lessons Offered
Composition, Guitar, Keyboard, Music Theory, Piano
Where are Lessons Offered
In Student Home
Virtual / Online
About Me
My name is Cameron and I have been playing music most of my life. I was involved in every form of music education that I could find, and took private lessons on guitar and piano for ten years. During this time, I learned that I improved when I performed music that I liked. I attended Truman State University receiving an MA in music theory. I then moved to Los Angeles and worked as a recording studio assistant, until taking a job for ten years as a school music teacher For the last five years I ran a very successful music studio in California The lessons were taught in my studio, at the students' homes or online and I incorporated the students' interests in teaching. I have also performed for many years and have written many songs that have been recorded and performed.
Lesson Details
My teaching method is unique; I never teach the same way for everyone. The main objectives I teach include performance, reading, ear training, theory, composition and improvisation. I find that playing examples of music that you like is the best way to improve skills. I will recommend books that best suit your style and level. The main styles include (but not limited to) rock, blues, classical, pop, jazz and country. Please contact me if you have any other questions about my teaching methods. Studio Equipment I have a studio grade Yamaha U1 Piano and many weighted keyboards as well as a small recording studio.
Specialties
Music,Piano,Sight reading, ear training and Experience in songwriting. Patience, Experience, Understanding of all learning styles.
My Musical Education Background
I studied for 5 years at Olivet College completing the music education program so that when I graduated I had not only a degree but also a teaching license.
From Olivet I was recruited to be a teaching assistant and Truman State University which allowed me to begin honing my skills as a teacher and obtain a Masters Degree in theory/composition.
I then moved to California and began post-graduate studies with Kenny Werner at UCLA, but soon found out I would rather teach and play than go to school any more, although I am always continuing my education by attending workshops ans conferences,
Genres and Subjects Taught
It is important to me to find out where the student is at and what there interests are before designing a course of study.
For example, a lot of adult students who have only played classical come to me to learn how to play from musical shorthand and how to improvise.
Or perhaps they are church musicians looking to add a little pop flair to their playing.
In my 20+ years of teaching there have been few requests I have not been able to honor.
Lesson Rates
Lesson rates are $40.00 per hour...or $20.00 per half hour payable monthly at the first lesson of each month.
I do not advertise this, but if coming to the studio or learning on-line just does not work for you I will travel within a 10-15 mile radius from my studio.
There is an added fee of $10 per lesson for gas and materials, but you do have that as an option if you need it.
Ages / Skill Levels Taught
I consider myself to be an expert level teacher and player in:
Jazz
Improvisation
Basic Training
Reading
Ear Training
Teaching the fundaentals and more of just about andy genre or specific thing you want to learn.
If you don't see what you are interested in on the list please ask!!!
My Certifications and Awards
Currently I am an active member of
ASCAP (American Society of Composers and Publishers)
MTAC (Music Teachers Association of California) ...having my membership transfered to Nevada
The Carl Orff Society... dedicated to using the whole body to reinforce and strengthen important musical ideas.
My Musical Influences
Some of my major influence include:
Hiromi Uehara -- Classical and Jazz
Chick Corea -- Classical, Jazz, Fusion
Jordan Rudess - Progressive Rock
Keith Emerson
Again, if you do not see what you are interested in on the list please ask!
Service Area
Student Reviews
Mark L
Virginia Beach, VA
Fantastic and patient teacher. I usually learn more in one lesson than with Cameron than I have with several lessons with past teachers. Cameron makes the complex understandable and it really makes for an enjoyable hour.