Dr. McKay Piano Studio - online lessons

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About

Hello! I teach internationally on Zoom and currently have students across the United States and in Europe. With 20+ years of teaching experience and a PhD in my field, I bring a wealth of experience to help you achieve new levels of virtuosic technique and musical mastery. My home studio is equipped with top-notch lighting, sound, and video equipment, so your lessons will always be a high quality experience. •• My Methods •• My work with every student begins with a conversation about goals, needs, challenges, and learning styles. Upon joining my studio, we will develop a personalized curriculum that charts the most direct course from where you are today to where you want to be. And the best part is, that curriculum will adapt and change as you gain experience and reach new levels. Mastering the piano is a lifelong endeavor, which is why I take pride in teaching dedicated students of all ages. My studio includes kids, teens, college students, adults with work-from-home careers, stay-at-home parents, retired folks, and more. I also enjoy working with students of all experience levels, from the total beginner on up to professional pianists and music educators who are looking to expand and refine their skillsets. •• Studio Community •• My students are driven, curious, creative, and passionate about music. Alongside learning classical repertoire, I encourage students to explore their personal interests in composition, theory and analysis, and more through independent projects. Students are invited to perform in a number of online recitals throughout the year, as well as at our annual Studio Showcase Recital at The DiMenna Center for Classical Music in New York City. These events are wonderful opportunities to showcase your hard work and growth with the instrument to family and friends around the country and beyond.

Overview

Background checked

1 employee

20 years in business

Business hours

SunClosedMon12:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Payment methods

This pro accepts payments via Credit card.

Social media

Instagram

Services offered

Subjects of interest

Fundamentals (pitch, rhythm, chords, etc.)

Harmonization

Counterpoint

Music subjects (notation, analysis, ear training)

Level of experience

No experience

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Instrument student plays

Piano

Projects and media

11 photos

Projects and media

11 photos

Reviews

Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.

Exceptional 5.0

10 reviews

5

100%

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Read reviews that mention:

William E.

Jan 19, 2021

As an adult, I was intimidated by the prospect of learning piano from scratch - over Zoom even! - especially since I wanted to cover some Music Theory as well. However, I lucked out by finding Tristan, who has been nothing but helpful, encouraging and effective from the beginning. He suggested a well-paced manual to start, and we have been working through the book's lessons since. Tristan is friendly but professional; he isn't traditionally "strict" but works with me until he knows I'm ready to proceed to the next topic. Since he has taught music theory as a graduate student, Tristan has been quite helpful in tying in theory subjects with each lesson without overcomplicating things. Outside of lessons, Tristan is responsive and reliable. He has also provided me with extracurricular practice elements to accompany the week's lesson topic. I would highly suggest Tristan, especially as an adult beginner looking for no-judgment lessons.

Farid M.

Jan 10, 2021

Since 2012, Tristan has been the piano teacher to all three of our children starting at the age of 5. His instruction has progressed them from beginner to intermediate/advanced classical piano repertoire (music by Debussy, Beethoven, Clementi, Chopin). Tristan is also a very versatile teacher in that he adapts to the varied aptitudes of his students as well as adjusts to their musical tastes over time. Throughout the years, we have been hearing not just the classics, but also contemporary (Queen, Led Zeppelin, Billy Joel, Coldplay, and Don McLean). He also prepares the children for their recitals a few times a year both in-person and on-line. Furthermore, Tristan's command of music theory coupled with his academic background has been instrumental to our children's music education. His instruction is adaptive and yet still structured and thorough. He encourages them to explore different pieces and makes sure that they are properly challenged and motivated along the way. As a result, they are all very active in a broad spectrum of performing arts - in the choir, jazz band, theater, etc. In addition, the focus and discipline that they have developed over the years playing the piano have clearly helped them in other subjects and they have all academically thrived throughout elementary, middle, and high school. Tristan's professionalism is also first-rate. He has always been very responsive and adaptive to our schedules both throughout the academic year as well as over vacation time and the summers. Above all, Tristan's temperament and personality round out the experience. The children truly look forward to their Monday afternoon lessons and we have been very lucky to have him with us all these years.

Brett L.

Jan 10, 2021

Tristan has been teaching our two children piano for several years and they have shown remarkable progress in their skills thanks to his guidance. He is extremely knowledgeable in music theory and knows how to inspire the kids to take on challenges and perform to the best of their abilities. He is good about mixing traditional/classical pieces with more contemporary one to keep the kids engaged. Additionally, he is a warm and friendly presence but we appreciate the way he keeps the kids on track and offers candid feedback when they are falling behind and not living up their potential. During the pandemic, his virtual lessons have been highly effective and provided our kids with a desperately needed diversion.

Nicole L.

Jan 18, 2021

Anselm B.

Jan 17, 2021

Working with Tristan has been fantastic. He's an engaged, thoughtful, hardworking presence, and our daughter has learned a great deal from him & continues to grow as a musician and as a music-lover. Highly recommended

Credentials

Background Check

Tristan Mckay

FAQs

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I teach year-round and prioritize my private students over all other professional engagements. Lessons are billed in 5-lesson packages. Regular weekly attendance is required, but I am flexible with rescheduling (with 24 hours notice). It's one of the benefits of online lessons!
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I always begin by scheduling a consultation (on Zoom) with my potential students to discuss their interests, goals, and aspirations with the piano. These short meetings are complimentary and a great way to get to know each other before committing to regular lessons.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have over 20 years of private teaching experience, and have taught courses in music theory and history at institutions including New York University and the State University of New York at New Paltz. I have a PhD, Master's degree, and Bachelor's degree in music. I studied at New York University and the Manhattan School of Music, and have performed at iconic venues including Carnegie Hall and others across the United States!

Dr. McKay Piano Studio - online lessons

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