Koen Smailes Music
Instruments and Services
Aural Lessons | Drum Lessons, Electronic Dance Music Production Lessons, Guitar Lessons, Keyboard Lessons, Piano Lessons, Singing Lessons | Theory Lessons, Composition Lessons, VCE Music Exam Preparation
Location
Bakehouse Studios, Hoddle Street, Richmond VIC
144 Beavers Road, Northcote VIC
will travel to you please enquire.
QualificationsMusic Composition at WAAPA
StylesClassical, contemporary
Suitability7-100 years. Beginner-intermediate.
PricingPlease contact
Bio
Hello.
I’m an utter music nerd. I’d like to help you be one, as well!
My own musical development was deeply immersive, varied and autodidactic. It was an organic, osmotic process that involved singing/harmonising, playing multiple instruments, listening broadly and contemplating music.
Formally, I studied Music Composition at the Western Australia Academy of Performing Arts. It was here I recognised the musical necessity and joy of aural training, and I continue to study aural/musical pedagogy under Micheal McCarthy, as well as ongoing composition study under Yitzhak Yedid.
Vocationally, in addition to teaching, I was employed as a chorister (tenor) in an 8 person SATB choir; performed contemporary/jazz vocal lead and BVs; performed drums in various styles and settings; composed for contemporary dance and theatre productions, performing on the keyboard/synthesiser for some of these pieces; collaborated with various musicians as a writer/producer.
Ultimately, I want my students to have as fulfilling a musical life as I’ve had (and, indeed, continue to have).
Teaching Info
My purpose as a teacher is to foster a deeper relationship with music, regardless of ability or instrumental/aesthetic preferences. I think it is ideal that a student is exposed to as much of the following as possible:
For all instruments/experience levels:
- Aural (ear training, rhythm, solfa/solfege)
- Theory (general/classical/contemporary/basic jazz)
- Composition/writing mentoring (from counterpoint to DAW)
- Music appreciation (history, listening, analysing, comprehending)
Instrumental/vocal lessons:
- Singing (various styles, technique, vocal health)
- Drums (beginner-intermediate, notation)
- Piano (beginner-intermediate, classical/contemporary)
- Guitar (acoustic, finger-style, basic classical)
I shall also provide ongoing mentorship/support and help with any questions outside of the room.
I teach from out of both Bakehouse studios (amazing rehearsal/studio environment) and from my own abode. Do get in touch!

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