Composition
Bring a work in progress or begin something new. We’ll develop musical ideas, consider the larger shape of a piece, and refine how it unfolds. Lessons can also address notation and preparation for performances or applications.
Composition · Theory · Orchestration
Private Lessons
I teach private lessons in composition, music theory, and orchestration, both over Zoom and in person in Los Angeles. We can work on music you’re writing, study pieces you love, or build the skills you need for a project you want to pursue. My goal is to help you develop your ideas, hear new possibilities, and feel more confident in your own musical choices.
$125 · 60 minutes
Schedule a Lesson
Working Together
Composition lessons begin with your music. We’ll talk about what you want a passage to do, listen for what is coming across, and consider other ways to shape it. Sometimes that means rethinking the form; sometimes a change in register, rhythm, or instrumentation makes the difference.
I work with students learning the fundamentals as well as composers preparing scores for performances or applications. We can combine composition, theory, and orchestration within a lesson.
Teaching and Mentorship
I’ve been teaching music for over 15 years. I currently serve as Visiting Associate Professor of Music Theory at Occidental College and teach composition at Mostly Modern Festival. I have also taught at Atlantic Music Festival.
Past teaching appointments include Manhattan School of Music Precollege, Chapman University, and Kaufman Music Center, including its Special Music School and Lucy Moses School.
I studied composition at the Curtis Institute of Music and The Juilliard School and earned my doctorate at the USC Thornton School of Music.
I’ve mentored students who have gone on to study at Curtis, Juilliard, Manhattan School of Music, Princeton, USC, and other institutions. Students I’ve worked with have also attended summer programs including Aspen and Tanglewood.
What We Can Work On
Music Theory
Study how harmony, counterpoint, rhythm, and form shape what we hear. We can connect analysis with listening and written work, strengthen ear training and sight singing, or prepare for placement exams.
Orchestration & Score Study
Explore how instrumental choices change the character and clarity of your music. We can study orchestral and chamber repertoire or review your own scores, working on register, color, balance, texture, and practical notation.
Lesson Information
- Rate
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$125 per 60-minute lesson.
New students receive 50% off their first lesson with code
TAKE50. - Format
- Lessons are available over Zoom and in person in Los Angeles.
- Length
- Standard lessons are 60 minutes. Consecutive hours may be booked when more time is needed.
- Cancellations
- Please give at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule.
- Frequency
- You can choose how often we meet. I recommend a one-hour lesson each week. This gives you time to work independently between lessons, with regular feedback to help you work through challenges and keep making progress.
Questions Before Booking?
Tell me about your musical background and what you’d like to work on using the form below. I’ll get back to you to discuss lessons.