Robert has been working and teaching professionally for over 40 years. This extensive experience has helped him to develop a variety of effective teaching techniques and methodologies. As a result, he will custom design a lesson program to specifically meet your needs. Robert can focus your training on traditional conservatory study, a more theoretical understanding of how music is constructed, or learning “by ear” and intuition. Whatever path you choose, Robert can help you determine which teaching method will serve you best. Ultimately “YOUR” way will be the most effective and enjoyable. Specialization in various music genres such as rock or jazz is also offered.
“I absolutely love teaching music and have been teaching for over 40 years! My unique combination of academic training, professional teaching and performing experience gives me the expertise to deliver a successful, custom-designed lesson program for students of all ages and abilities.” ~ Robert
Teaching Background
Robert began his teaching career at the age of 16 in the Teachers Assistant Training Program at the Ontario Conservatory of Music. He taught classroom and group lessons in addition to private study. Robert is an award-winning graduate of the Humber College Jazz Music Program, where he received his formal academic training. He also has over 40 years of hands-on, “in the field” professional experience performing with various artists. Robert’s live performing experience is an important attribute that enhances his teaching skills in a dramatic and positive way. In addition, Robert is also a certified Scuba Instructor. This specialized training has provided him with unique tools that he uses to help students reduce performance anxiety and stress. Scuba training emphasizes that each student is unique and progresses at their own speed, this non-competitive methodology is an integral part of Robert’s music instruction.
Piano Lessons
- Acoustic piano and electronic keyboards (organ, electric piano, Rhodes, Clavinet, synthesizer)
- All levels, from beginner, to intermediate, to advanced, including performing professionals
Guitar Lessons
- Acoustic and electric guitar (this includes finger style and strumming)
- Beginner and intermediate level
- Robert is also able to offer beginner bass guitar coaching
Accordion Lessons
- This was Robert’s first instrument of study at six years of age!
- He has trained up to the Grade 10 level on a 120 Bass Titano.
Vocal Accompaniment
- Personal Accompanist: Robert has worked with many vocalists in a duo (vocal and piano) setting as well as larger band ensembles and can serve as your personal accompanist.
- Song arrangements and personal repertoire music book development: As your dedicated accompanist and coach Robert can assist you with producing charts, key selection, style, tempo, etc. In essence, he functions as your personal musical director.
Musical Director
Every big professional show has a musical director. Robert has experience with:
- Professional plays (Christmas Pantomime: Gayety Theatre),
- Producing shows (Host of Saturday Night Jazz)
- As a band leader (my own Jazz Fusion Trio)
- As a vocal accompanist (Shelaugh Hart, Tara McKenzie, and Debbie Fish)
Theory
Think of the word “theory” as understanding how music is put together. Robert is so skilled at teaching theory he can even teach a five year old to compose within weeks of starting! He teaches:
- Classical theory rudiments
- Jazz theory (college/university level)
Band/Ensemble Coaching
Inspiring musicians often find playing in a band situation an extremely enjoyable experience. However, they are often challenged by how to arrange all the component parts that make up the whole resultant collective sound.
- Robert offers leadership and coaching for bands, siblings, familes, etc.
Private Lessons
- Lessons are 30, 45, or 60 minutes, based on age and level of instruction.
- Typically, lessons are weekly. However, if you are traveling a distance your lessons may be scheduled every other week.
- If you have siblings that wish to study together, Robert can offer a discounted rate for a group lesson.
- Perhaps you would like to take lessons with your child? Many parents have found this to be fun and rewarding.
- Robert has a current Police Vulnerable Sector Report and a Town of Wasaga Beach 2017 Business License.
Robert’s Home Studio
Robert’s home studio located in Wasaga Beach, Ontario is professionally and extensively equipped:
- Two professional stage keyboards
- An acoustic Heintzman studio piano
- Grand piano (available for advanced students preparing for Conservatory exams)
- Acoustic guitar
- Electric guitar
- Electronic drums
- Drum machine
- Microphones
- PA system
- Accordion
- Alto saxophone
- An enormous volume of teaching material including books, charts, DVDs and videos
House Calls
In-house teaching is available. For an additional charge Robert will come to your house to teach you!
All Ages Welcome
Experience teaching all ages and personality types. Robert believes you are never too old or too young to learn to play music. Remember he will design a program that will work best with your learning style and interests.
- Young children (4 to 10)
- Tweens and teens (11 to 19)
- Adults
- Senior (oldest student is 76)
Special Needs Students
Robert has experience teaching students with dyslexia, Asperger’s syndrome, ADHD, as well as students undergoing physical/mental rehabilitation. Music is a creative and deeply healing form of expression and is a wonderful tool for quieting the mind and reducing stress.
Fees
For lesson pricing, please contact Robert for a quote.