Composition Lessons

As of March 2020, lessons are available online via Zoom, Skype, or Google Hangouts, while we all practice safe social distancing to slow the spread of the corona virus. ​

I teach private composition lessons to K-12 students and adults in person in the  Southwest Portland/Lake Oswego/North Tigard region and via Skype & Google Hangouts. In person lessons are held in Lisa's beautiful home studio in the Arnold Creek neighborhood. Students will have the most success if they already have 2 or more years of experience in lessons on an instrument or voice and understand theory concepts such as note names, rhythm reading, and time signatures.  I also offer advanced coaching to emerging professionals on writing for the voice.  Contact Lisa for more information. My studio welcomes and affirms LGBT+ students.

Why study with Lisa?

• Supportive, personalized teaching approach.
• Empowering students to write their very best music in their most genuine, authentic artistic voice, regardless of musical style.
• Experienced composer with commissions by a variety of ensembles including Third Angle New Music, Access Contemporary Music, Choral Arts Ensemble of Portland, Coe College Symphony Orchestra, the Glass City Singers, Duward Ensemble, In Motus Tuba Quartet, flutist Rose Bishop, and pianist Michael Kirkendoll.
• Extensive knowledge of instruments and voices, including standard and experimental techniques.
• Accomplished performer of contemporary classical music with knowledge of notation needs for performers. 
• Wide network of new music performers and composition professors at leading collegiate programs.
• Highly educated teacher with a Masters of Music in Composition and a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Voice Performance & Pedagogy. Additional training at the Cortona Sessions for New Music in Italy and the Gabriela Lena Frank Creative Academy of Music in Boonville, California.