Private Music Lessons and Tutoring
Composition • Music Theory • Ear Training • AP Tutoring • Entrance Exams • Bass Lessons
Online via Zoom | Welcoming all ages and experience levels
About Me
I have been teaching music since high school, when I began offering electric bass lessons to friends. Since then, I’ve developed an approach that emphasizes discovery of music through listening, exploration, and open-minded curiosity.
Teaching is one of the great joys of my career in music. I’ve been teaching in colleges and universities since 2015 (currently at College of Staten Island CUNY and Westminster Choir College). I have taught middle and high school students at Peabody Preparatory and in community-based programs like Junior Bach in Baltimore. I have a PhD in music composition from the CUNY Graduate Center (2024) and Master of Music degrees in Music Theory Pedagogy and composition from Peabody Conservatory (2015).
What I Offer
I teach private lessons and tutoring online via Zoom, customized to meet the needs and goals of each student.
Composition, Songwriting, & Orchestration
Develop your own creative voice, whether you’re writing your first piece, arranging a tune, scoring a short film, composing for instruments and voice, or crafting beats and tracks. I work with composers of all ages and genres.
Music Theory, Aural Skills, & Counterpoint
Learn how music works—from the fundamentals to advanced analysis. Topics include harmony, counterpoint, pop and jazz theory, form, ear training, microtonality, and more.
Tutoring & Exam Prep
Preparing for a college placement exam, conservatory audition, or AP Music Theory test? Struggling with your theory classes? I help students succeed with tailored instruction that demystifies difficult material. (If you’re under 18, parents are always welcome to sit in!) Group tutoring sessions (up to 3) are also a great option!
Instrumental Performance
I’m a specialist in electric and upright bass. Whether you’re learning your instrument or want to understand the theory behind your favorite riffs, I can help. (I also play guitar, piano, and trumpet, and can help you connect theory and practice no matter what your instrument is).
Music Notation (& Engraving)
Whether you want to learn the basics or need feedback on your engraving, I can help. Learning music notation can help you get your ideas down on paper (or in the computer), help you think through your ideas (like writing an essay), and—of course—allows you to share your music with more performers and audiences. I’m an expert in Sibelius notation software, and also offer professional engraving services.
“He encourage[s] students to think about the principles of music theory in a fresh and imaginative way. … Mr. Miller successfully honed the students’ critical thinking skills and enabled them to reach their own conclusions about the music, providing them with new sub-sets for creating their own music.” — Prof. Anne Swartz (Baruch College)
“Professor Miller treats his students with a combination of gentleness of expression and definitive explanation. His expertise as a theoretician is obvious … and his being able to personally relate to our students exemplary.” — Prof. Micheal Morreale (College of Staten Island)
Who I Teach
Teenagers, college students, and adult learners
Students interested in classical, jazz, rock, hip-hop, film scoring, and experimental music
Performers, songwriters, improvisers, and producers who want to deepen their understanding of theory
Anyone who wants to enjoy music more deeply—as a listener or creator
“Professor Miller’s class is incredibly well organized and he manages to make great use of every moment … while maintaining a welcoming class environment.” — Anonymous CUNY student
Why Take Lessons?
Get personalized feedback on your writing or playing
Improve your songwriting, improvisation, and production skills
One-on-one instruction means you learn what you want to learn
Master music fundamentals to inspire creativity and improve performance
Gain a competitive edge for college auditions and AP exams
Explore new genres, sounds, and ways of thinking about music
Flexible scheduling fits into your calendar, while regular lessons keep you accountable
How it works…
- Contact me via email using the link above. Tell me about yourself and your musical goals. I’ll reach out to set up a free consultation.
- We will discuss your goals and how I can help. We’ll decide on a plan and schedule your sessions.
- I usually recommend weekly or bi-weekly lessons, but I don’t require fixed commitments. Pricing may vary; my regular rates are listed in the table below.
- Make beautiful music!
| # of sessions | minutes per session | price |
| 1 (pay per lesson) | 20 | $45 |
| 1 | 40 | $90 |
| 1 | 60 | $135 |
| 4 (special; pay in full at first lesson) | 20 | $175 |
| 4 | 40 | $350 |
| 4 | 60 | $525 |
Lectures, Panels, Public Talks
I am available to give guest lectures, workshops on composition, and other public appearances for any audience. Topics include music theory research, my music, contemporary bass techniques, and general music topics.
“He goes above and beyond to help his students. He finds fun ways to deliver lecture material and make even the most challenging things understandable and enjoyable.” — Anonymous CUNY student
My college courses include:
Composition
Ear Training (Aural Skills)
Harmony & Counterpoint
Intro to Music Theory
Music History
Keyboard Musicianship
Moderating a panel at the Manhattan International Composers’ Conference
Scott Allen Miller, composer 