“I have never met a teacher who is so informative, insightful, and passionate about what they do.”

- Nadia, former piano student

Having tought hundreds of students in many different instruments, settings and styles over the past fifteen years, I have built a reputation as an extremely patient, knowledgeable and goal-oriented teacher. My experiences range from directing treble choirs, coaching youth rock bands and tutoring emerging classical and jazz pianists to teaching group workshops at traditional music camps and creating acclaimed instructional videos online. My current students include Fleadh medal winners and successful touring musicians, and several of my former students have gone on to earn conservatory music degrees, start their own musical projects, work as film composers, and so on.

Nevertheless, I always take special pride in teaching the complete beginner, and am happy to take students at any stage of their musical journey. My lessons are always securely grounded in consistent ear training, frequent singing, and the continuous sharpening of music theory skills, while maintaining a strong focus on unlocking muscular relaxation and maximum efficiency in physical technique, as well as the importance of learning the history and nuances of the given genre - and Western music writ large.

I am currently offering instruction in piano, voice, tin whistle, and fretted instruments (guitar, Irish bouzouki, mandolin, tenor banjo).

 

TESTIMONIALS FROM STUDENTS

“I have been taking piano lessons from Kevin for the past 8 years and in this time, I have only had positive experiences… Kevin made sure that I wasn’t only learning how to play the piano, but that I was also gaining an appreciation for every aspect of music. Through my lessons, I have learned how to read music, use my ear to transcribe songs, compose melodies to match a specific mood, and have become aware of many music theory topics…The key thing that I have learned about Kevin is that he will adapt his teaching style and expertise to ensure that it fits how you learn…He is able to use his expertise and extensive knowledge and experience as a musician and a teacher to provide the most valuable lessons that a person could ask for. Overall, I couldn’t recommend Kevin enough to be your child’s music teacher. I have never met a teacher who is so informative, insightful, and passionate about what they do. Words can't explain how amazing it is to have the opportunity to learn from him.”

- Nadia Daly, piano / keyboard

“I started guitar lessons to learn how to accompany traditional Irish music in performance settings. Kevin adapts our sessions to my learning style and pace, blending theory, practical skills, and encouragement while staying focused on my goal. His skills as a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist enhance the learning experience, allowing him to demonstrate ideas and techniques in a variety of ways. We focus on Irish tunes in our lessons, but Kevin can expertly dip into classical, jazz, rock, and even medieval songs to get a point across (and demonstrate his infectious enthusiasm for all music). Although I still play in mostly informal settings, I’ve also had great fun performing professionally as a result of what I’ve learned.”

- John Roberts, guitar

“I just wanted to say that I am very grateful for how much you have taught me with classical and jazz piano. Your teaching helped me cultivate a strong interest in music not only as a means of entertainment or stress relief but also of self expression. I believe that your approach to teaching significantly breaks down the difficulties of advanced piano. While you enable students with a learning-by-doing approach, you also provide us with demonstrations or examples that help us understand the end goal with a piece of music or a musical technique. This makes your teaching not only very effective but also very unique.”

- Michael Volkman, piano

“You have helped me start to love playing the piano again after taking four years completely off. I have broadened my interest in many different genres--classical, pop, and musical theater--and I have made many concrete improvements in both accuracy and technique since I have started taking lessons again. Piano has helped me both to express myself artistically and to bond with those around me, and your lessons have been a major part of that. Thanks!”

- Molly Weithman, piano

“I've had the pleasure of learning the Irish tin whistle under Kevin Elam's tutelage since March 2023, and the experience has been wonderful. What stands out about Kevin is not only his knowledge of Irish music but also his nuanced approach to teaching the tin whistle. He goes beyond mere technique, guiding me through aspects like breathing, phrasing, fingering, ornaments and just the feel of the music, all of which have deepened my understanding of this unique instrument.

Kevin's patience is truly commendable. On the days when my fingers felt like noodles, he effortlessly adjusted our lesson, maintaining an encouraging attitude that has kept me inspired. His talent as a musician is evident, and he has no trouble demonstrating complex techniques, always ready to explore further if curiosity strikes.

But perhaps what I value most is Kevin's ability to listen and engage. Our lessons never feel like a one-sided lecture; instead, they are filled with lively conversations, where my opinions and thoughts are as welcome as his insights. He not only pushes my boundaries to help me improve but does so in a way that isn't demanding. The result is clear - I've improved to much better than I was when I started, and it's all thanks to his guidance.

Kevin also tells me about local Irish music events that I might not have discovered otherwise. I find myself eagerly looking forward to our lessons and having a great deal of fun in the process.

Whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player, I wholeheartedly recommend Kevin Elam as a teacher. His blend of expertise, patience, talent, and encouragement will not only make you a better musician but will also grow your love for Irish music.”

- Mike Dewey, tin whistle