ONLINE LESSONS

for modern piano

Pop/Rock and Jazz Fundamentals

Chord Theory

Improvisation

Music Technology

& More

We take on students from many backgrounds:

- Adult and teen beginners

- Pop/Rock/Jazz band musicians wanting to juice up their sound

- Classical pianists wanting to tackle the unique intricacies of contemporary music

- School and university students developing their modern playing chops in solo, accompanying, and band situations

- Music 1 HSC students in NSW developing their final exam performance program

The common denominator is a love of modern music, an open mind, and a willingness to learn

  • "I have found James to be a fantastic role model to our students, with exceptional musical skills. His experience as a working musician allowed him to pass on valuable knowledge of the industry to our students. I would highly recommend James as both a piano teacher and performer"

    Mel Hale, Creative Arts Coordinator at Kildare Catholic College Wagga Wagga

  • "I’ve been having lessons with James for over 5 years. I was drawn to James unique style of teaching. I have enjoyed every lesson and my continued confidence in my ability to play piano. I can highly recommend James as a piano teacher"

    Jenny Powell, Student

  • “James’s ability to not only connect to his students learning needs, but act as a musical mentor was an instrumental factor in us continuing tuition online with James this year when we moved across the state. I cannot recommend James highly enough”

    Emily Dunn, Parent of Student

Our Focuses Include

  • Unlock the secrets of chords to elevate your piano playing:

    • Master common chord voicings to add richness and depth to your sound.
    • Discover useful chord hacks that simplify complex progressions.
    • Explore passing chords and reharmonization techniques to create sophisticated transitions.
    • Build a versatile "playing vocabulary" where these concepts flow naturally into your music, enhancing your creativity and confidence.
  • Leverage technology to expand your musical possibilities:

    • Learn to program keyboard patches from basic setups to advanced configurations tailored to your needs.
    • Get hands-on experience with notation software, making sheet music and charts a breeze.
    • Dive into the essentials of DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) recording software, from setup to multitrack recordings.
    • Explore strategies for utilizing computers in live performances, ensuring seamless integration into your setup.
  • Bridging traditional and contemporary approaches to music reading:

    • Learn to read and interpret traditional sheet music with confidence.
    • Get fluent in reading and writing modern chord charts and lead sheets, the foundation of contemporary music.
    • Apply your knowledge of chord theory and improvisation to enhance your interpretation and performance of written music.
  • Adapt your playing to any performance scenario:

    • Develop solo piano techniques to fill every gap, creating a full and engaging sound.
    • Learn how to accompany a vocalist or instrumentalist, respecting their musical space while enhancing the performance.
    • Understand the dynamics of band playing, mastering the art of restraint where "less is more."
  • The art of improvisation is essential to contemporary styles like pop, rock, and jazz:

    • Develop the skills to listen, react, and create in the moment, making your performances dynamic and engaging.
    • Learn how to manipulate scales and modes to craft unique melodies.
    • Use chord tones and stylistic techniques to build improvised phrases that suit various genres.
    • Gain confidence improvising in any setting, whether you're soloing or jamming with a group.
  • Unlock the unique sounds and capabilities of your instruments:

    • Program a perfect FX chain for a sparkling, iconic Rhodes sound.
    • Fine-tune your Wurlitzer to get that classic, punchy tone.
    • Shape your Hammond organ sound using drawbars and explore advanced techniques like palm glisses and held tones.
    • Make your piano cut through the mix in any setting, whether live or recorded.
    • Learn the basics of sound design to create unique synth patches that reflect your style.
    • Master layering and splitting techniques to combine multiple sounds for performance or production.
    • Discover the secrets to creating a powerful, phat sound that commands attention.

LESSON AVAILABILITY

Our 50 Minute lessons can be booked ad-hoc on a single lesson basis, or at a discounted rate for booking 4 lessons in advance

SCHEDULE

As James travels between UK, Europe, and Australia our lesson availability fluctuates seasonally

March/April/May 2025

Australia (Sydney Time): Tues/Wed/Thurs afternoon/evening and Saturday morning/afternoon

Europe (London Time): Wed/Thurs/Fri mornings

June - December 2025

Australia (Sydney Time): Tues/Wed/Thurs evening

Europe (London Time): Tues/Wed/Thurs afternoon


We are currently at capacity for online lessons - please register on the waiting list to be notified of any potential openings

Any questions?

Email us at info@wickedkeys.com.au