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Dan

B.Mus, B.A.

English & French

Piano - Voice - Singer Songwriter

We learn at YOUR pace, not mine, and we'll have a lot of fun along the way.

Teaching Philosophy

I operate under what I call the "functional musician" philosophy. In addition to developing technique and knowledge in music theory, I teach the skills necessary to create a successful performing artist. Whether the goal is a career in the music industry, starting a band, or confidently playing for friends and family as a hobbyist, I share both my experience in academia and as a professional performing musician.

I tailor my lesson plan to each individual student. I've taken on young students who were disillusioned with strict classical curriculums, and reignited their love of music with popular songs and even video game soundtracks.

All of this is done in a supportive, stress-free environment. We learn at YOUR pace, not mine, and we'll have a lot of fun along the way.

Education

I have a Bachelor of Music from Carleton University, specialized as a singer-songwriter. During my time at Carleton I received training in vocal and piano technique, ear and rhythm training, songwriting, performance, composition, advanced theory, music history, computer music, pedagogy, music therapy, and live sound. I studied under highly decorated musicians including Juno winners, prolific Canadian songwriters, and classically trained opera singers.

I also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, during which time I studied developmental, cognitive, and behavioural psychology, as well as neuropsychology. This knowledge offers me unique insight into the way we learn and develop skills, which I incorporate into my teaching.

Teaching & Skills

I have been teaching and performing as a professional musician for the better part of a decade. I've worked at music schools and I've played gigs and festivals across Ontario, including Ottawa's Bluesfest and CMW in Toronto.

I can individually teach piano and vocals to a high level, but my real specialty is teaching the art of combining the two: self-accompaniment. Once a student is comfortable singing while playing, we can dive into the wonderful world of songwriting and unlock one of the purest forms of artistic self expression.

I also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, during which time I studied developmental, cognitive, and behavioural psychology, as well as neuropsychology. This knowledge offers me unique insight into the way we learn and develop skills, which I incorporate into my teaching.

Awards, Honors & Experiences

My students of all ages have successfully prepared for recitals, open mics, paid gigs, music school auditions, and album releases.

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