from62.79CAD/ h
Mastering Complex Score-Reading with a Composer-Conductor
As a professional composer and conductor with a decade of teaching experience, I offer in-depth lessons on music theory, ear-training, and score reading—both online and in Berlin. Whether you’re a student, amateur, or professional, I can tailor the course just for you.
The fundamentals of reading scores have to do with understanding instrumentation and transposition...but in our sessions, we will go beyond that. We'll learn to "reverse-engineer" scores, learning to think like a composer. By seeing the larger patterns and exploring the ‘why,' you’ll learn how to uncover the techniques and strategies that bring music to life, and simultaneously how to feel more at ease looking at complex scores. Lessons are flexible, allowing you to explore your interests at your own pace with a curriculum designed to meet your needs.
The fundamentals of reading scores have to do with understanding instrumentation and transposition...but in our sessions, we will go beyond that. We'll learn to "reverse-engineer" scores, learning to think like a composer. By seeing the larger patterns and exploring the ‘why,' you’ll learn how to uncover the techniques and strategies that bring music to life, and simultaneously how to feel more at ease looking at complex scores. Lessons are flexible, allowing you to explore your interests at your own pace with a curriculum designed to meet your needs.
Location
At student's location: Around Berlin, Germany
Online via webcam
|
Use ⊞+wheel to zoom!
General info
Skills:
Age: | Teenagers (13-17 years old) Adults (18-64 years old) Seniors (65+ years old) |
---|---|
Student level: | Beginner Intermediate Advanced |
Duration: | 30 minutes 45 minutes 60 minutes 90 minutes 120 minutes |
The class is taught in: | English, German |
About Me
www.stephenmulligan.comAmerican Conductor and Composer Stephen Mulligan has served as Resident Conductor with the Cincinnati Opera, Associate Conductor with the Atlanta Symphony, and Dudamel Conducting Fellow with the Los Angeles Philharmonic. 2024-25 season highlights include conducting debuts with Ensemble MusikFabrik, the Filarmonica Transilvania, Junges Sinfonie Orchester Wetzlar, and at the Momentum Festival Berlin, alongside return engagements as a guest conductor at the University of North Texas Opera and as an assistant conductor with the New York Philharmonic. As a composer, Stephen will present a new work with Ensemble MusikFabrik at their studio in Cologne and begin a collaboration with percussionist David Moliner and Universal Edition, culminating in the premiere of a new work at the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg in January 2026.
A passionate advocate for contemporary music, Stephen debuted on the New York Philharmonic’s Sound ON Series in 2022 and their 65th Street Session Series in 2023. In demand as a guest conductor, Stephen has led performances with the Dallas Symphony, Detroit Symphony, Gulbenkian Orchestra, Louisiana Philharmonic, Minnesota Orchestra, National Symphony, Phoenix Symphony, Rochester Philharmonic, San Antonio Philharmonic, San Francisco Symphony, Sarasota Orchestra, St. Louis Symphony, and Virginia Symphony.
Stephen has assisted, prepared stage works, and served as second conductor for many of the world’s top conductors, including Marin Alsop, Karina Canellakis, Gustavo Dudamel, James Gaffigan, Edward Gardner, Manfred Honeck, Jakub Hrůša, Susanna Mälkki, Zubin Mehta, Ludovic Morlot, Peter Oundjian, Matthias Pintscher, David Robertson, Sir Donald Runnicles, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Leonard Slatkin, Robert Spano, Michael Tilson Thomas, and Jaap van Zweden.
As a Dudamel Conducting Fellow with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Stephen stepped in for Gustavo Dudamel on short notice to conduct an all-Beethoven program and led other notable performances, including Stravinsky’s complete L’Histoire du Soldat and an All-Ravel Toyota Symphonies for Youth Concert. During his first season as Associate Conductor with the Atlanta Symphony, Stephen stepped in for three classical subscription programs over six weeks to critical acclaim.
A native of Baltimore, Stephen Mulligan began his violin studies with his father, Gregory, and continued with Kyung Yu at Yale University. His conducting teachers include Gustav Meier at the Peabody Institute, Robert Spano at the Aspen Music Festival, and Arturo Tamayo at the Conservatorio della Svizzera Italiana. He has a degree in composition under Jörg Widmann from the Barenboim-Said Akademie in Berlin.
Education
Yale University, Bachelor of the Arts, Violin and ConductingPeabody Institute, Masters in Music, Orchestral Conducting
Barenboim-Said Akademie (Berlin), Artist Diploma in Composition
Experience / Qualifications
Los Angeles Philharmonic, Dudamel FellowAtlanta Symphony Orchestra, Assistant/Associate Conductor
Cincinnati Opera, Resident Conductor
Are you new to music or looking to understand the basics in a fun and engaging way? My Foundations of Music Theory class is designed for beginners of all ages who want to build a solid foundation in music theory without feeling overwhelmed.
In this interactive course, we’ll explore the essential elements of music in a playful, approachable manner. Topics include understanding notes, rhythms, basic harmony, and how to read simple scores. We can approach music theory through whatever music you love and with whatever instrument you play or voice-part you sing.
Through games, listening exercises, and creative activities, you’ll develop a deeper appreciation for music while gaining the confidence to engage with it on a deeper level.
Whether you’re a young student just starting out or an adult wanting to revisit the fundamentals, this class welcomes everyone! No prior experience is necessary.
Are you an aspiring composer? In my Elements of Musical Composition class, we’ll explore both the traditional elements of rhythm, pitch, color, etc., but also the elements of musical poetry. You will not only learn how to craft music but also how to use constraints to create a cohesive and consistent musical language. We will also explore the idea of paradox in your compositions, encouraging you to blend contrasting elements to add depth and complexity to your work.
Through the analysis of exemplary works, the composition of miniatures, and feedback on your current projects, you’ll both increase your technical fluency and simultaneously learn to love and develop your unique voice.
This class is ideal for intermediate to advanced musicians who want to deepen their understanding of composition, whether you're a budding composer or an experienced musician seeking to enhance your creative skills. Join me on this journey of exploration, and let’s bring your musical ideas to life!
Ask a question
Send a message explaining your needs and Stephen will reply soon:
The more detail, the better.
Ex. "Hi, when are you available to meet for a lesson?"
Ex. "Hi, when are you available to meet for a lesson?"
Availability of a typical week
(GMT -05:00) New York
Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
0 | |||||||
1 | |||||||
2 | |||||||
3 | |||||||
4 | |||||||
5 | |||||||
6 | |||||||
7 | |||||||
8 | |||||||
9 | |||||||
10 | |||||||
11 | |||||||
12 | |||||||
13 | |||||||
14 | |||||||
15 | |||||||
16 | |||||||
17 | |||||||
18 | |||||||
19 | |||||||
20 | |||||||
21 | |||||||
22 | |||||||
23 |
from C$62.79Online via webcam
from C$79.64At student's home
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Good-fit Instructor Guarantee
If you are not satisfied after your first lesson, Apprentus will find you another instructor or will refund your first lesson.
Online reputation
- Instructor since October 2021
- Phone number verified
- Google connected
Availability of a typical week
(GMT -05:00) New York
Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
0 | |||||||
1 | |||||||
2 | |||||||
3 | |||||||
4 | |||||||
5 | |||||||
6 | |||||||
7 | |||||||
8 | |||||||
9 | |||||||
10 | |||||||
11 | |||||||
12 | |||||||
13 | |||||||
14 | |||||||
15 | |||||||
16 | |||||||
17 | |||||||
18 | |||||||
19 | |||||||
20 | |||||||
21 | |||||||
22 | |||||||
23 |
from C$62.79Online via webcam
from C$79.64At student's home
Good-fit Instructor Guarantee
If you are not satisfied after your first lesson, Apprentus will find you another instructor or will refund your first lesson.
Share
You are here
Private lessons
in Berlin
Similar classes
Aneta
Piano * Music theory * Music harmony * Ear training *** Learn easily and effortlessly Piano & Music theory ***
Combined teaching methods that adapt to your individual needs and abilities. You will learn how to use notes, intervals, chords, rhythm, scales and the right playing technique to express yourself through different musical styles.
*** Harmony & Ear training for preparation for university entrance exams ***
- Intervals • Scales • Chords • Tonality and Modality • Harmonic progresions • Four-part voicing (piano and choral) • Cadences • Modulation • Melody dictations (tonal and atonal) •
Choral dictations • Harmonic and formal analysis
Joshua
Music Theory Crash Course for producers, composers, arrangers and anyone who makes musicThis class is for composers, songwriters, arrangers, music producers or anyone who makes music in any way AND wants to understand more of the background about why things work the way they do.
In this masterclass, we will look at a range of topics such as chords and scales, how to improvise, reharmonization, structure and much more to enable you to create music with confidence and the knowledge that helps many musicians around the globe work more efficiently.
Madara
Integrated Music lessons for kids - theory, composition, pianoMusic lessons with Madara will be fitting to those young people who are willing to either try themselves in the field of music or have decided to learn music.
With Madara you will learn music in practice and in theory. Usually the lesson would integrate such components as piano playing, singing, tasks for music theory and composing (or improvising). "Composing has become an important and also very fun activity in my music lessons. Children very often show up their will and ability to create their own music which is not only a great way to develop creativity but is also very effective way to learn music theory in practice.
Madara
Composer, Music Teacher, Musician
Elizabeth
Music Theory, Ear-Training, and Composition Lessons in EnglishWhether you're looking to improve your overall musicianship as an already-seasoned musician or learn the basics, I am ready to work with you! As an active composer, performer, and music educator with a Master's Degree, I have years of teaching experience with various ages and levels. Theory topics can range from counterpoint, form and analysis, triads, harmonization, figured bass, 12-tone analysis, to introduction to note-reading, patterns, and more. We'll examine various repertoire from the Baroque through the music of today. Ear-Training instruction can include a mixture of sight-singing, rhythm exercises, melodic/harmonic dictation, chord recognition, and more. Composition lessons will be centered around developing and expanding your compositional voice, with special attention to form, theatricality, expression, and understanding of instruments. Your lessons will be designed to fit your personal level and goals! I bring 15 years of composition experience, 14 years piano study, and 13 years of intensive vocal training to my work as a theory, ear-training, and composition educator.
Ella
Piano, music theory, chamber music lessons and accompanimentPiano, music theory, chamber music lessons, accompaniment.
Experienced piano teacher who is available for private lessons in person or online.
All levels students age 12 and above are welcome, as well as students with special needs (any age)
Familiar with ABRSM, TRINITY, NZMEB, IB exams requirements. Spoken languages: English, Bulgarian
Curragh
Guitar Lessons - all ages and ability levels welcome!Hi everyone! My name is Curragh and I am a guitar teacher from the UK.
Learning an instrument is hugely rewarding and a great investment, one that I believe is accessible to anyone. Perhaps you're intrigued by the guitar and want to give it a go... maybe you are a parent looking to relax for an hour and have fun or enrich your child’s development and give them a skill they can enjoy for the rest of their lives.
I am a lifelong lover of music with a bachelor's degree in Jazz Guitar from Leeds Conservatoire and a BTEC diploma with distinction in Music Practice. I have played in many different ensembles and have attended the Bath International Guitar Festival in the UK, on a scholarship.
My teaching philosophy is that the ears are just as important to train as the hands and I integrate this into my lessons. It is also important to enjoy playing and feel excited by it, however, as this is the best motivator for students! It's how I learned after all...
I am happy to teach absolute beginners through to advanced students, ages 7 and up. If you have a particular style of music you are interested in or some favorite songs you've always wanted to learn, we can cover them!
If you are more advanced and want to bring your playing to the next level, I can coach you so you develop your unique 'voice' on the instrument and have a technique to burn.
Haotian
Composition and music theory lessons, in Berlin or onlineInternationally active composer and music theorist (M.Mus) currently accepting students for the following subjects (online sessions):
-Music theory (basic to college level), including harmony, counterpoint, analysis
-Western music history (medieval to contemporary), music appreciation
-Composition, music notation (software + score preparation), electronic music, university application portfolio feedback and general application advising
-English (for academic writing)
Sofia
Music Composition and Sound Design for Cinema and VideogameIn this course you will learn how to compose for images exploring different genres of music (orchestral, electronic, pop and underground music), deepening the softwares and tools for recording, editing, mixing your tracks.
What you will learn:
- How to record, edit, and mix live instruments and MIDI in Ableton Live / Cubase
- How to create custom sounds using a synthesizer and how to integrate those custom sounds for your musical compositions
- How to add effects to your vocals and tracks
- How to compose for images: Film, Documentary, Video Game, Trailer and Advertising
Roberto
Contemporary approach to bass guitar playing/(every instrument accepted)Focusing on the development of own unique voice I will plan a specific program for each student in order to bring him to the next level.
After studying in my youth with bass guitar innovators Matthew Garrison, Dominique Di Piazza, Skuli Sverrisson, at Berklee College of Music and privately with Jazz theory and Improvisation guru Hal Crook and after almost 20 years of playing professionally all around the world with amazing people I ́ve accumulated tons of invaluable lessons ready to be shared with my students.
Ladis
Cello lessons for everyone, especially for beginners of all ages and soloist too.Hey there,
I love seeing improvements in a short time.
That's why in the last 22 years of experience for any type of problem there is a picture we ́ll share to create the best solution for mind, body, and sound.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
Daire
Piano, double bass, electric bass or theory from experienced teacherTeaches Piano, Double Bass, Electric Bass
I have a Music degree from the Conservatory of Music and Drama DIT and four years experience teaching piano and double bass in classical and jazz, conducting youth orchestras and teaching music theory and composition.I am a member of ESTA Ireland. My lessons are tailored for ever person, with a focus is on developing a love for the art, particularly with younger students.
Alfonso
Fully personalized music and guitar lessons!An experienced guitar teacher with a Professional and Higher Degree in Modern Guitar from the CSMC gives private lessons in general music and/or guitar from Beginner level to medium/high level, classes focused on the interests and objectives of the student.
Your favorite styles: Jazz, Rock, Heavy, Pop, Funk, etc.
Harmony, the art of discovering the musical ins and outs.
Chords: All types, inversions, and drops applied to different styles.
Most used phrases and techniques, both melodically and rhythmically.
Arpeggios, the chords broken down in a practical way.
Scales and modes, to lose the fear of improvising.
Theory and material to suit the student and his objectives.
Entrance tests to the professional degree of electric guitar are being prepared!
In an entertaining and simple way, at your own pace!
The classes are focused on the final aspirations of the student, both those who learn as a hobby, to play their favorite songs or those who consider a more serious and complete learning. The theory-practice balance will vary depending on this approach, from focusing the sessions on practical and concrete learning to the in-depth understanding of the exercises and their theoretical why.
Don't think about it, go ahead and embark on this incredible and fun path!
Andrea
Classical Guitar Lessons from a Conservatorium-Trained TeacherHi, I’m Andrea!
I’m a professional classical guitar performer and educator from Sydney, Australia. I have been developing my music teaching business for over 9 years, through which I teach a wide range of styles, levels, and ages. Lessons are specifically tailored to meet the needs of each student, whether the focus is on classical guitar performance, chords, pop/rock, or Spanish-style fingerpicking. Music theory, composition, songwriting, improvisation, sight-reading, and preparation for high school exams or University auditions are all options that can be incorporated into lessons.
I have plenty of experience with young children and teenagers as well as adults, from complete beginners to advanced players. My teaching philosophy is holistic in that I strive to help my students become well-rounded musicians with a range of listening, reading, improvisation, and analytical skills, while of course carefully choosing repertoire that will cater to the student’s taste as well as their abilities. Pop/rock guitar and jazz/blues improvisation are also options as well as classical training.
Geena
Piano Lessons for All Ages (including People Living with Disability & Neurological Conditions)Hi there! I am an English-speaking Piano Teacher and Registered Music Therapist from Australia.
I completed my studies in piano at a university level and have twelve years of experience in helping students find enjoyment and confidence in playing their favorite songs on the piano. I teach people of all ages ranging from complete beginners to diploma levels.
My six years working in Music Therapy have allowed me to extend my teaching services to people living with neurological conditions and disability using standard and adapted methods.
I strive to provide lessons that are fun, engaging, and personalized, by accounting for different learning styles and preferences.
In our lessons, we engage in a combination of improvisation, using sheet music or learning by ear, music composition, music theory, and technical work as it serves the student's goals and interests.
Music is boundless and so are the piano lessons I offer.
Please read about Music Therapy services on my profile and contact me with further inquiries.
Sarah
Piano Lessons for all ages and in different languagesHello! my name is Sarah. I have a certificate in Classical Piano Performance. I have years of experience in teaching music in different languages (Arabic, English, German and French).
In 2020 I finished my master's in Music Therapy in Germany. At the end of my studies, I did my research on online music playing and wrote my thesis on music interaction through online platforms which gave me a great deal of experience when it comes to online teaching. In my online lesson, I use several cameras from several angles to give the student the chance to see what I am doing.
My lessons (Live and Online) are fun and very beneficial, and all my students showed fast progress