Music theory, songwriting, composition & improvisation lessons for singers and instrumentalists
I specialise in providing singer-songwriter focussed music theory, composition and songwriting lessons, as well as advanced music theory, composition and improvisation for instrumentalists looking to improve their skills.
My students range from complete beginners writing their first songs to competent instrumentalists exploring jazz harmony, advanced composition and improvisation.
Skills taught include:
practical music theory for singer-songwriters
advanced jazz harmony, chords and scales
creating chord progressions
writing melodies and harmonies
song structure
sight reading and singing notated music
arranging music for solo performance
arranging music for small and large ensembles
vocal and instrumental improvisation
creative lyric writing
recording and producing music at home
creating lead sheets and notated music
using Sibelius or MuseScore
working with other musicians and leading a band
working through creative blocks
Lessons can also include:
Lessons are tailored to suit your own goals and interests, and include professional worksheets and handouts, homework tasks and recommendations for books and electronic learning aids.
About me
University qualified with 10+ years teaching, performing & recording experience
“As a teacher I find Erica generally warm and encouraging and her breadth of knowledge has helped me to work towards any goal I’ve bought to her, whether it relates to technique, music theory or performance. I think every singer would have something to gain from lessons with Erica and would highly recommend her!”
“I ALWAYS love my weekly lessons with Erica. Every lesson she peels back new layers of learning and ah-ha moments for my growth in learning the ukulele and singing. I immediately connected with Erica, having found her via her website and love the conversations we have. My first lesson was more than a year ago - yet feels like I have been enjoying it for years!”
Lesson options
Ongoing weekly lessons
SUITABLE FOR ALL LEVELS
50 minute weekly lessons, designed to help you make ongoing progress toward your goals
Single masterclasses
SUITABLE FOR INTERMEDIATE+ STUDENTS
90 minute intensives, designed to address a particular problem, question or roadblock in a single extended session
Book a free pre-lesson consultation
About me
Bachelor of Music with Honours - Victorian College of the Arts
Specialist in:
Guitar, ukulele & double bass skills for singers & songwriters
Singing for guitarists, bassists, pianists and other instrumentalists
Singing & vocal coaching
Guitar, ukulele & double bass tuition
Music theory, songwriting, lyric writing, composition & creativity
Since establishing my private teaching studio in 2014 in Melbourne, Australia, I have had the privilege of tutoring a wide range of students of all skill levels, from children to retirees, including absolute beginners and professionals broadening their skills.
My combined vocal and stringed instrument experience has led me to work primarily with singer-songwriters looking to improve their instrumental, music theory and songwriting skills, and instrumentalists wanting to learn how to sing. I also offer standalone guitar, ukulele, double bass and contemporary vocal lessons.
I have also designed and led numerous songwriting and composition workshops, including workshops for Melbourne University Student’s Union, Firebird School of Music in Brunswick and international online learning platform Lessonface.
I am a graduate of the Victorian College of the Arts in Melbourne, Australia and have been performing for over ten years as a vocalist, double bassist and guitarist with a variety of professional ensembles. I have released three critically acclaimed albums of original music, and was nominated as Best Folk Artist in the 2021 Music Victoria Awards.
In 2023 I transitioned my studio fully online, allowing me to travel and perform worldwide while continuing to provide lessons. I am currently based in the beautiful Czech republic, and lessons are available for my Australian students weekdays from 6 - 9pm AEST/AEDT, and for my European students weekdays from 9 - 11am and 4 - 7pm CET/CEST.