Ata | Teacher #4653
About Ata
Ata is a dedicated guitar and composition teacher offering lessons in English and Farsi. With a Bachelor of Music from the Tehran Conservatory and a Master of Music in Composition from the University of Calgary (expected 2025), he brings a strong academic background to his teaching. His expertise includes guitar, composition, harmony, counterpoint, and RCM theory levels. Lessons are available online, in his Calgary studio, or in students' homes.
Guitar Composition Counterpoint Harmony Music Theory (Beginner-Intermediate) Composition Music Theory (Advanced) RCM - Counterpoint RCM - Advanced Harmony RCM - Intermediate Harmony RCM - Basic Harmony
Online Lessons In Studio Lessons Lessons in Your Home
Classical
English Farsi
Teaching Philosophy
As a teacher, I focus on creating an engaging and supportive learning environment for students interested in guitar and composition. My approach balances technical skill development with creative exploration, ensuring that students not only improve their playing and writing abilities but also find their unique musical voice. In guitar instruction, I emphasize fundamental techniques, fingerstyle and plectrum playing, chord progressions, and improvisation. Whether a student is interested in classical, contemporary, or fusion styles, I tailor lessons to their individual interests while reinforcing essential musical skills like rhythm, phrasing, and expression. In composition lessons, I guide students through the process of developing their musical ideas, understanding harmony and counterpoint, and orchestrating for different instruments. I encourage students to explore a wide range of styles, from traditional to contemporary, and help them build confidence in their creative decisions.
Musical Education
I hold a Bachelor of Music from Tehran Conservatory of Music and a Bachelor’s degree in Music from University of applied science and technology in Tehran. I have also compled my Master of Music in Composition at the University of Calgary, where I have studied under Dr. Allan Gordon Bell and Dr. Laurie Radford. My education has been shaped by both Western contemporary music and Persian classical traditions, allowing me to develop a unique approach to composition and musical interpretation. Prior to my graduate studies, I engaged in extensive training in music theory, orchestration, and performance, working with ensembles and orchestras in Canada and internationally. My experience also includes specialized studies in film scoring, contemporary ensemble writing, and interdisciplinary collaborations.
Awards and Distinctions
Throughout my musical journey, I’ve been fortunate to receive several recognitions for my work in composition and music education. Some highlights include: • Bell Family Bursary – Awarded for excellence in music composition. • Fully Funded Masterclass in the Netherlands – Selected to study film scoring and contemporary composition under Rens Machielse. • University of Calgary Full Funding – Received full support for my Master of Music in Composition. • Collaborations with Professional Ensembles & Orchestras – Including the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, LandsEnd Ensemble, Calgary wind symphony and ILO Quartet.
Special Skills and Trainings
My approach to guitar teaching blends technique, creativity, and real-world musicianship. With a background in both classical and contemporary styles, I help students build strong fundamentals while exploring improvisation, composition, and even music production.. My experience allows me to teach guitar not just as an instrument, but as a tool for expression and creativity.
Lessons in your home
Ata is available to teach in your home if you are located in the following areas:- Calgary, AB
Lessons in a music studio
Ata offers lessons from his studio. Map locations are approximate and based on the postal code of the teacher’s studio. The full address will be provided upon registration.Lessons on an online platform
Ata can provide online instruction. While other platforms are possible BAH strongly recommends the use of the Zoom video conferencing platform as it is optimized for music lessons and audio quality.Reviews
Associate Teacher Lesson Rates:
Ata is a Beethoven at Home Associate Teacher
- 30 minutes: $39
- 45 minutes: $49
- 60 minutes: $59
Home visit fee: $15 minimum fee. Teachers may negotiate a higher travel fee if the travel distance is longer than they are comfortable with. Most arrangements use the minimum fee.
One-Time Family Registration: $25. This covers your entire family for life - once you're in, everyone can take lessons!
Our Promise to You
Getting Started Together
We don't offer free trials, but we do something better - a relaxed 2-lesson getting-to-know-you period. You can pause anytime with just 24 hours notice. After your third lesson, we ask for a friendly 2-lesson heads up if you need to stop.
Life Happens - We Get It
Give us 24 hours notice for any cancellation or reschedule and you'll receive full credit. Planning a family vacation or summer break? Perfect - just let us know a day ahead and we'll pause your lessons.
When You're Under the Weather
If illness strikes with short notice (less than 24 hours), you'll still be charged since your teacher has reserved that time. However, most teachers are happy to offer makeup lessons when possible - they have the final say, especially if last-minute cancellations become a pattern.
Stopping Lessons
Need to take a break? We just ask for a 2-lesson notice:
Weekly lessons = 2 weeks notice
Every other week = 3 weeks notice
Twice weekly = 1 week notice
Summer breaks are different - no notice period needed when you return in the fall!
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