Piano Lessons in Hamline Midway, MN

Instruments: Piano Voice

I love the art of communicating or telling a story through music. I am a professional performer and vocal instructor, and have sung on professional stages such as Mount Baker Theater's repertory theater and the Whatcom Symphony opera series in Bellingham, Washington. I am a classically trained musician and relish singing folk, jazz, and other popular styles of singing. After graduating with my masters in voice performance from University of Nebraska - Lincoln, I decided that the Twin Cities would a fantastic place to extend my love for teaching and get back on the stage. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I like to make each student feels special, valued, and encouraged. I have coordinated student recitals, met with parents to discuss progress and future plans in both school settings and private tutoring. I strive to help my students enjoy the process of understanding and making music. Thus, my lessons often include such activities as ear training, theory, history, sight reading, technique, and repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Here are a couple of reviews from students: “Ian’s experience with Sebastian has been nothing short of wondrous. Sebastian has the unique ability to find a musical connection with a broad range of students, From prodigies to students like my son who simply want to know the joy of playing music. Sebastian is able to meet the students where he or she is at in their musical journey and coax that student to move forward at their own pace. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

For my advanced students (18+), depending on how advanced they are, I start them in the "First Book of _______ Solos" series. This series covers singing in English as well as several other languages and provides a good foundation for singing. Anything else I do with the student is on an individual basis. For younger brass students (10-14) I would teach out of the Standard of Excellence Books unless they are more advanced where I would start them in the Arbans Book, Robert Getchell Book, and/or Schlossberg Book. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

My favorite part about teaching is watching my students progress. Nothing is better than seeing the progress one makes after a given time. Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at their own pace. Setting goals for themselves can work well but there is no need to rush anything. Learning takes time and especially learning an instrument. Words of affirmation when acknowledging a students accomplishment(s) helps students desire to continue to progress and make them eager to keep on learning. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

Every student has an experience unique to themselves. I am strict about meeting the goals developed by each student. However, the learning process is highly individual. You will learn at a pace and with a curriculum we develop to best suit your learning style, musical preference, and goals. Based on these goals, I will figure out the best method of incorporating theory, technique, and improvisation. I like to work on a piece of repertoire and tell we have perfected whatever the main goal of the piece is. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Euphonium Mallet Percussion

One of my biggest strengths as a music teacher is figuring out students' learning styles and differentiating instruction accordingly. I absolutely do not use a cookie cutter approach. I am very good at personalizing lessons to fit students' interests and needs. I feel it is important to allow each student to learn at his or her own pace. I set goals that will challenge the student, but be easily attainable with regular practice. Read More