
TEACHING
"...an exceptional teacher.... I’ve never left one of Nick’s lessons without having had fun.”
- Phil Jimenez, student
As an educator my aim is to give my students the skills and knowledge they need to accomplish whatever goals they have - whether it’s preparing for a university audition, upgrading their skills for the bandstand, or just developing a new skill for the fun of it.
​
In lessons I work with my students’ strengths and address their weaknesses in a personalized, holistic approach which aims to demystify the learning process. My aim is not just to make you a better piano player, my aim is to give you the tools so you can continue to make yourself better more independently in a wide range of different areas including:
​
-
Technique and Posture
-
Music Literacy
-
Beginner & Advanced Jazz Improvisation
-
Composition
-
Theory
-
Ear & Rhythmic Training
-
Vocal/Instrumental Accompaniment
-
Problem-Solving and Goal Achievement
-
University Jazz Audition Preparation
-
Royal Conservatory Exam preparation
For those interested we will also be able to delve deeply
into my own personal passion and specialty - the world
of jazz improvisation!​
* FREE Half Hour Trial Lesson for new students *
​
I take on students of all ages and skill levels, whether you are starting out for the first time or have a number of years under your belt, I can deliver instruction at whatever level you’re at. Lessons are in person at my home studio or online through Zoom.
IN PERSON - at my home studio in Courtice, ON
ONLINE - through Zoom, globally
416-389-2643 | nickmaclean251@gmail.com
“I took piano lessons for fifteen years, from childhood to early adulthood, and then, like many of us do, stopped playing almost entirely. I missed it and thought that taking a few lessons would get me back on track, and then I would “teach myself”. After a few lessons with Nick, I knew I wanted to continue on an ongoing basis. Not only is taking lessons more fun, but Nick was able to give me exercises and tools that are helping me to rebuild the skills that had faded and build a proper musical foundation that, turns out, I was missing this whole time. After just ten weeks, I’m noticeably better in terms of rhythm, melody, and improvisation, and have renewed motivation to keep going. Thanks, Nick!”
- Hilary Johnston, student
​
“Nick’s instruction combines a deep musical knowledge with some very effective pedagogy. As a teacher, he is great at quickly identifying the student’s core areas that need improvement and finding effective methods for addressing those needs. In just a few classes he has already helped me address musical issues I’ve carried with me for years and has also answered theoretical questions I’ve always had trouble understanding. Whatever your musical goals may be, Nick will do an amazing job helping you to achieve them!”
- Stephen Keller, student
“Nick Maclean is an exceptional teacher. There has never been a question he hasn’t been able to answer. He always gets to the root cause of my struggles and improves my playing from the ground up. He is sensitive to my particular needs and learning style. His experience in the professional world is extremely helpful for anyone looking to take piano seriously, but his teaching talents will work wonders for a student of any level. Despite learning being our top priority, I’ve never left one of Nick’s lessons without having had fun.”
- Phil Jimenez, student
“I did four lessons with Nick and not only was he patient and great at explaining concepts that I was struggling with, he was there on email to help when I felt stuck. We got straight to work on the stuff that I said I wanted to start developing in our “trial lesson” which was also great. I feel I made real progress in both musical theory knowledge and practical application of said knowledge with only a few lessons. Will definitely buy more and highly recommend! In regards to the online, video chat necessity of our times now, they were just as good as in person!”
- Mitchel Reed, student
“Nick’s approach to teaching has kept me motivated and committed to learning how to play the piano. I feel the lessons are well structured, challenging and fun. In addition to piano technique, Nick’s expertise in theory helps his students become better musicians overall. I am very happy with my progress on the piano and I would highly recommend Nick as your instructor.”
- Bryant Meyer, student
“Nick is a phenomenal teacher. He is able to accurately asses his students’ wants and needs. He also has the unique talent to deliver lessons and exercises which push the boundaries of the students’ abilities and knowledge without being overwhelming. For me, the result of taking lessons with Nick has been a steady and palpable increase in my piano playing proficiency. I’ve greatly enjoyed my lessons with Nick and look forward to continuing working with him.”
- Justin Tanas, student
​
“Nick is a very good piano teacher. Over the years I’ve had three others before him, and he is by far the most helpful. He is knowledgeable, supportive, and has a great sense of humour. Learning piano as an adult, I recommend him!”
- John Montague, student
”Nick is dedicated to his trade but he knows how to bring himself to align with the student’s level. He is gentle with kids, he understands their dynamics and is able to provide useful guidance.“
- Frank Passage, parent
“Nick is an enthusiastic and supportive teacher who tailors his lessons according to his students’ needs. To give a specific example, I had previously been mostly self-taught and for years I struggled with rhythm (especially 8th notes on triplets). Through Nick’s patience and guidance, I have a much more structured approach to this problem and I have noticed significant improvements. I would highly recommend him for anyone considering piano lessons, particularly in contemporary styles of music.”
- Mihan Han, student
​
”Nick knows when a push is needed, when to slow down, he works with speed you can keep up with; there’s never a need to feel awkward or under pressure, all is at rest. Never too slow nor too fast. If you want more, he’ll feed you with more, he goes with the flow, play it by ear. This is extremely important to younger musicians, they need the extra care and sensitivity to enjoy the journey. My son has never asked if the journey is over, if we have arrived yet. The trip includes the journey and he has enjoyed every part of the journey. With much gratitude.”
- Irene Tam, parent
​
“Nick’s lessons have been great! I have improved far faster than ever before and his willingness to tailor lesson plans to my needs has made the experience all that much better!”
- Daniel Tabet, student
“Nick is a fantastic piano teacher with a keen eye for flexibility. He works with spontaneity and intuition, these are assets we look for in a jazz instructor.“
- Delilah Russel, parent
I am a multi-award winning jazz pianist and synthist. I encourage you to check out the wider site in order to investigate the kinds of things I do in my artistic practice more fully, but if you'd like a taste, here are some videos! ​