Music is how I appreciate and see the world around me - I would love to share that appreciation with you through individualized music lessons and coursework.
Piano
Piano is my primary instrument - I am an advanced pianist and took faculty-led private lessons at Duke University. While I typically utilize the Faber method for younger students, I maintain a “no one size fits all” approach. My main goal is to instill a deep passion for piano and music holistically with all pupils. When a student begins to enter the realm of being considered a “late intermediate” or an “advanced” pianist, I will help her or him find a more suitable instructor.
Starting at $150 / hr dependent on location and program; longer lessons could potentially receive a discount
Cello
Cello is my secondary instrument - I am an intermediate cellist and did not pursue formal cello coursework while at Duke University. I maintain a passion for cello and welcome all inquiries. I utilize the Suzuki method while incorporating additional pieces of interest to supplement Suzuki coursework.
Starting at $100 / hr - I especially recommend thinking about cello lessons for piano students; learning more than one instrument has tremendous benefits to a student’s musical education as well as general cognitive development
Not currently accepting cello students
Theory
Music theory does not have to be boring and laborious. I focus on the fundamentals (e.g., understanding notation, notes, and scales, etc.), hearing, understanding, and feeling tempo, as well as exposure to voicing and musical expression. From the circle of fifths to TAKADIMI rhythms (plus some of my own unique teaching methods like stomping in time or throw the ball to the right note), I have a deep passion for music theory and firmly believe it is the foundation and cornerstone for any serious musician.
Starting at $100 / hr dependent on location, program, and methodology
DJ / KJ Services & Lessons
My DJ and KJ name is HΔRMΞN (“HARMEN”) - while I am just starting to pick up local DJ and KJ gigs, I can provide baseline introductory DJ lessons to interested students. I can also DJ or KJ casual events. For DJ lessons, I understand the importance of song selection, set-up, and the technical equipment to get anyone from contemplating DJing to actually starting. Once a students reaches “intermediate” level, I will find a more suitable teacher.
Lessons and other services starting at $125 / hr - all audio equipment, software, and songs will need be purchased by each individual student. If cost is a concern, I help think through purchasing cost effective solutions
Piano Purchasing
Understanding piano brands and manufacturers is a passion project of mine. Not all pianos are created equally and some pianos may be best suited for certain genres over others. Whether you are considering buying an “oldschool” Baldwin for traditional jazz or a Bechstein to perform Rachmaninoff like a professional, I can educate, illustrate comparisons, join you and your family at piano warehouses, and do cost / benefit analyses via Microsoft Excel to ensure you feel great about your purchase.
Starting at $150 / hr dependent on location
Financial analysis starting at $100 / hr (not in-person)
Performance
I have deep experience playing piano at both weddings and funerals as well as other events such as Christmas parties. From simple and quiet background music to precise accompaniment of other instruments to thunderous and moving solos, I welcome all inquiries.
Starting at $250 / hr - all personal preparation and purchase of sheet music for the event is included; on-site rehearsals, day-of preparation, and the event itself would be charged at the hourly rate
Consultations start at $100 / hr to think through music and learn about my process; first 30 min is free
For piano, cello, theory, and more “classically” oriented questions and inquiries please reach out to me directly. I would be happy to send you any requested recordings or answer specific questions. For DJ and KJ oriented questions and inquiries please, still, reach out to me directly. You can also access my Soundcloud here (under construction until July 1, 2025). My music-based brand is listed below: