What do you want to learn?
I will show you how to play it.
Learn Pop Piano
Pop music crosses many genres (think pop, rock, R&B, film score, folk piano, etc.) and can range from simple to complex. It all starts, though, with the music you love.
Once you tell me where your dreams are, we'll get you playing those melodies that tug at your heartstrings. Pop piano can be made easy with simple left-hand chords (sheet music optional). However, it can progress into soaring arrangements that demonstrate depth and power on the piano.
Wherever you lie, I will walk you through the whole process.
Learn Jazz Piano
Jazz voicings, improvisation, harmonies, and reharmonization can seem daunting. However, you may be surprised that jazz (whether jazz ballad, swing, bossa nova, Latin jazz, ragtime, stride, etc.) still follows the same basic language as any other style of music (many of its chords also exist in pop and classical music). The trick is learning which colors to add to the piano chords to give it a "jazzy flavor."
For improvisation, it's all about being playful. After some exercises to get the basic melodic language, you'll start to "feel" the music flow out of you using the rhythms you hear in your head.
Lastly, you can't master jazz without transcribing jazz. I will guide you through this! When you are ready, we will dig deep into the details jazz masters left behind in their solos that you learn from.
Learn Classical Piano
You can't think about the piano without thinking of the centuries of classical piano masterpieces written for it. Even though it exists only on paper today, classical music is ALIVE and rich in emotion. Every era (Baroque, Classical, Romantic, 21st century, etc.) and every composer (whether Bach, Mozart, or Beethoven, etc.) has its own unique techniques and sound.
Let's get you learning these beautiful pieces of art. Once you learn the fundamentals and can read music well, classical music becomes a breeze since you already know the common piano movements and pitfalls. I will help learn the pieces you love and do so in a way that does justice to their emotion.
Learn Music Theory
Music is truly a language. The notes are its letters, chords its words, rhythm its sentences, and form its chapters. Music theory is what helps us understand this language, to connect the dots, to gain control of it and create the musical stories we want to tell.
Many people see music theory as daunting, boring, or as getting in the way of creativity. This is far from the truth. Music theory contains a few fundamental principles, mainly tension and release, that apply the same way in all music-regardless of style. Once you know it, you'll hear it, and with careful thought your creativity will only increase and your emotional connection to music deepen.
Frequently asked questions
What levels of piano do you teach?
Short answer: Beginner-Advanced. Whether you are new to the keys or are a seasoned pianist looking to master your craft, I've got you covered! I will tell you exactly the things you need to know to play the music you love.
Why study with Daine Jordan?
I've taught dozens of students with over a decade of experience. I not only have a passion for music but also a passion for teaching. While most teachers follow a cookie-cutter method with many students, I use a variety of tools to tailor our lessons to your needs exactly.
Do you teach kids?
Yes! I have special teaching methods to get kids learning piano quickly and have fun doing it! Kids learn much differently than adults, and each child is unique. I make sure to get to know them well and their interests so that piano becomes something they love and enjoy.
How much do lessons cost?
I aim to keep my rates as low as possible so serious musicians are still able to study with me. Currently, my base rates sit at $60 per 30 minutes and $90 per hour. Please contact me if you are interested in in-person lessons.
Why take private piano lessons?
Even though there are many ways to learn piano (Youtube, online courses, etc.), private lessons are the ONLY way to learn that hits your goals like a direct shot. I'll teach you exactly what you need to know, how to get there efficiently and easily, connect all the musical dots, and provide real human feedback all along the way.
How do piano lessons work?
Piano lessons can be done in person if you are in the Orange County, California, USA area (drive fees may apply based on mileage). Otherwise, we can learn online via Zoom. I have an awesome setup for online lessons that allows you to see my keys, record lessons, and have a custom email lesson plan after each lesson.