I am offering lessons in music composition.
I taught music theory and composition at university level for 25 years,
stepping back to focus on my own work in 2024.
I benefited enormously from studying with a mentor/maestro when I was already working as a professional composer. Giving one-on-one lessons has always been my favourite form of teaching, and I’m now giving private lessons to composers at a variety of levels.
Lessons are based on your personal goals and interests. Sample subjects include
Harmony, Melody, Rhythm, Genre, Notation, Theory, Songwriting, Film Music.
Examples of topics:
How do you create chords for a melody?
How do you set words to music?
How do you tell the story of a scene in a film with music?
More advanced topics could include:
Arranging and Orchestration
Polyrhythm and Polytonality
Counterpoint
Jazz harmony
Film Scoring
Get in touch and we can discuss what you’d like to learn.
If I’m the right teacher for you, we can begin and see how we go, no long-term commitment required.
T: (+61) 424 655 317
E: phillip@phillipjohnston.com
My musical background crosses boundaries of jazz, classical, rock, electronic and film scores and theatre music. I have taught at academic institutions including: Sydney Conservatorium, University of Sydney, AFTRS (Australian Film, Television and Radio School), Australian Insitute of Music, NYU Steinhardt School of Music, NYU Tisch Graduate School of Music Theatre. I have a PhD in Music Composition, and have worked professionally in film, theatre, radio, television, the jazz club and concert hall.
You can find more information about my professional history here.
You can find out more about my academic qualifications here.