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Miami Valley Music Instruction

$60/hour
Estimated price


Interested musical styles

Responds within a day


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About
My business stands out because of a driven dedication to the needs, wishes, and goals of the individual. I bring to my students a rich experience garnered from over 31 years as a band director in various school systems here in the Central Ohio area. Some students may want to learn to play to accompany the choir, while another may just want to bush up on some theory. Some students feel they need to catch up on technique, while others choose to brush up on their improvisational skills. instructional procedures, method books and materials are all dependent upon personal student goals. I do, now teach remotely, on Zoom. Please have the needed equipment in place and functional. (camera on the keys and mic set so that we can converse) be patient - it may take a while to get things running smoothly! Currently, I'm working with various age groups, however, I really do enjoy watching that"light bulb" go off when kids accomplish something for the first time. Encouraging creativity and improvisation promotes confidence and independence. While music instruction has always been my main focus, I have also had extensive experience cultivating acting skills, as my career includes production of various musicals, plays, and off broadway projects. I "empower" students to learn in their own way, and at their own pace.
Overview

Hired 21 times

Serves Dayton, OH

Background checked

4 employees

24 years in business

Business hours

This pro hasn't listed their business hours.

Payment methods

This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Credit card, PayPal, and Venmo.

Social media

Facebook

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    8 hires on Thumbtack

$60/hourEstimated price

Services offered
Interested musical styles
Work location

My customers travel to me

I travel to my customers

Projects and media

16 photos

Projects and media

16 photos

Reviews

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

Excellent 4.9

30 reviews

5

90%

4

7%

3

3%

2

0%

1

0%

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pro avatar
Marchy K.

4 weeks ago

Hired on Thumbtack

Details: 45 - 64 years old • No, the student cannot read music • No formal training • What the teacher recommends • Yes, the student has a piano • I'm flexible • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.

Piano Lessons
pro avatar
Kay M.

Aug 18, 2025

EXCELLENT! I am truly Greatful for my child to be under the instruction of Mr. Derrickson. My 10 year old daughter has studied piano under Mr. John Derrickson at Miami Valley Music Instruction for over three years, and the growth has been remarkable. She was completely new in learning this instrument. Under his guidance, she is learning to become fluent in reading music, can sing while playing, and receives valuable lessons on the history and origins of the music she performs. Mr. Derrickson is more than an instructor he is a gifted educator who creates meaningful challenges, motivates his students to give their best, and truly aims for their success. Because of his guidance, my daughter has performed at schools, churches, and community events receiving standing ovations, repeated invitations, and even monetary gifts from appreciative audiences. Adding voice lessons this past year has expanded her knowledge and given her even greater confidence in performing before large crowds. I am truly grateful for this phenomenal teacher who is patient and continues to guide and inspire my daughter, not only in the art of music but also in developing self-confidence and professionalism. I highly recommend Mr. Derrickson for anyone seeking exceptional, inspiring music instruction. Thank you!!
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Laura w.

May 18, 2018

Hired on Thumbtack

Everything so far as we’ve only have had one lesson,my husband And I really like him,he’s very uplifting very patient very knowledgeable.

Details: 45 - 64 years old • Yes, the student can read music • 0 - 2 yrs of formal training • 60 minutes • As recommended by teacher • Within the next 1 - 2 weeks • Conducting initial research • The voice coach travels to me

Singing Lessons
pro avatar
John D.

Sep 22, 2017

Hired on Thumbtack

Love his individualized approach. I've been playing for some time, but I still learned so much with just the first lesson. Wish I had discovered Miami Valley Music Instruction much sooner!
Piano Lessons
pro avatar
Julie B.

Jun 24, 2023

I can't say enough good things about Miami Valley Music Instruction. I look forward every week to my lessons with John. He makes them fun and allows you to pick the type of music you enjoy so that you can really get into it. He gives you feedback to make you better, but also gives you the confidence to try even if you are a beginner. My whole family has taken lessons from him and we highly recommend him to other families.
Credentials
Background Check

John Derrickson