
Grant, with over 40 years of experience, offers online lessons in French horn, guitar, piano, ukulele, and voice. Holding a Bachelor of Music and a Diploma of Fine Arts in Conducting, he believes in empowering students to make their own musical choices while providing a supportive learning environment. With a background in professional music performance across British Columbia and Alberta. Book an interview with Grant for engaging online music lessons designed to nurture your musical passions.
My teaching philosophy revolves around meeting students where they are in their musical journey and taking the time to understand their aspirations and goals. Having been a student myself, I empathize with their experiences and am mindful of not imposing my desires on them. While foundational skills are essential, I believe it's the students who ultimately decide how to utilize those skills. I pay close attention to my students' progress, ensuring they don't feel overwhelmed, and provide extra time for mastering specific skills. However, above all, I cherish sharing the joy of playing and singing with my students in every lesson. Music should be a source of enjoyment and fulfillment, and I strive to create a supportive and fun learning environment for my students to explore their musical passions.
My educational journey has been enriched by attending several esteemed institutions and earning valuable degrees: - Bachelor of Music from the University of British Columbia - Diploma of Fine Arts in Conducting from the University of Calgary - Royal Conservatory Piano Grade X Throughout my extensive career spanning over 40 years, I have been privileged to teach various musical disciplines such as Band, Choir, Guitar, Ukulele, Piano, and Voice in both Public and Private schools. Beyond teaching, I have immersed myself in the world of professional music, playing the Piano, French Horn, and lending my vocals to Pop/Rock/Jazz bands and orchestras across British Columbia and Alberta.
Piano 1974 - Kootenay Music Festival - Recommnedation to B.C. Provincial Festival (Piano)
Workshops August 2020 - VSO Jazz Workshop (Miles Black - Piano) June 2019 - Jazz Piano Lessons - John Stetch (VSO School of Music) July 2018 - VSO School of Music Jazz Workshop July 2016 - Sorrento Swing Camp - Jazz Piano July 2015 - Sorrento Swing Camp - Jazz Duets Summer 2008 - Centrum Jazz Workshop - Port Townsend WA Performing Experience • Ed The Funk (2022 to present) • Keyano College Jazz Ensemble (2014-2015) • Pit Orchestra -The Musical ‘Cabaret’ – (2014-2015) • Playmor Junction Big Band – Nelson B.C. (2013-2014) • Grant Mara’s Wishes Duo – Nelson B.C. (2011-2014) • Company Jump "Andrew Sisters Tribute" – Rossland B.C. - Musical Director and Arranger (2007-2008) • Slinky Jazz Quintet - Rossland B.C. (2005-2007) • SwingSations 'Swing' Band - Trail B.C. (1998-2014)
Grant is a Beethoven at Home Associate Teacher
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!
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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