Piano lessons in Atlanta

I am a native of Atlanta, Georgia who has been studying music for 20 years. My first instrument was the piano at age 6, and I began playing percussion in my middle school band when I was 11. My deep love of music drove me to pursue a Bachelor of Music Performance degree, which I earned Magna Cum Laude from the University of Georgia in 2012. In college, I studied percussion with Tim Adams, retired principal timpanist of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

Music is an exciting and enormous world that I am eager to share with you, either at your home or in my stud

io. I am a patient, funny, and outgoing teacher who caters to your specific needs as a student. While I have studied classical music for many years, I also offer lessons in popular music styles, including rock, jazz, funk, and hip-hop.

I frequently perform as a freelance musician and recording artist, playing anything from drum set in my rock band Grand Vapids to solo musical saw. I have performed nationally and internationally with ROC, the Albany Symphony Orchestra, Arts!Oglethorpe, Athena Opera, Chamber Cartel, Classic City Jazz, Oconee Youth Playhouse, and numerous groups around the southeast.

I believe that with positive dedication and a great attitude, any musical goal you have in mind can be achieved. Let me be the person to help you with your goal! Thanks for stopping by my page, and I hope to teach you soon!

-Paul S.

*** Lesson Details ***
I strongly believe in the idea of constant positive re-enforcement when it comes to teaching music. Negativity leads to tension, and tension is NOT conducive to learning. I am an enthusiastic and gentle educator, but I will firmly drive you or your child to achieve musical goals in a fun and exciting atmosphere. Motivation is essential to practice, and the importance of practice could never be overstated. This is why I stress positivity! I ask only that you come to your lesson prepared and unafraid of making mistakes.

As a beginning musical student, you can expect to have the fundamentals of reading and comprehending written music within 3 months. On the day of your first lesson, we'll discuss your goals and interests, and I will recommend books and materials to aid you on your journey. I will systematically teach you the basic rudiments and techniques that are essential to proper hand and finger movement; I'll also teach you mental techniques to ensure great practice. As an intermediate or advanced student, we'll discuss your previous education and musical interests, and I'll direct you towards the styles you want to pursue. We'll also work on concepts of music theory and performance.

Since performance is an important part of music, I will coordinate an optional recital in the winter and spring for students to showcase their hard work and talent. This low-stress concert will be held at a local school or community center and will surely be a great experience for all those involved.

I teach from my home studio in Ormewood Park, Atlanta. Two friendly cats live here, but if you or your child are wary of pets, Tycho and Charlie will be closed off in another room for the duration of our lesson.

Let's make beautiful music together!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Various drums (including a drum kit) and percussion instruments, piano, guitars.

*** Specialties ***
I was trained classically, so I am happy to pass on a love of classical music through lessons. However, I have been playing jazz and popular music since high school and am also knowledgeable in these genres.