Kian Xie, music educator (RI area) > > > About the Instructor | Workshops | Lessons | Testimonials | Links | kianxie@gmail.com | (401) 545-2557
Violin Lessons & More!
Hi, my name is Kian Xie, and I'm a musician and music teacher in the Providence/Cranston area. I currently work with Renaissance Music Center and BASICS: Music Is Instrumental in Cranston. I am available to teach private lessons in violin at all levels and styles, and beginner-level guitar and piano.
As of February 2012, lesson rates are as follows:
$20/half-hour
$40/hour
An overview of what I have to offer as a teacher (for more info, see About the Instructor):
For more details, keep reading!
Can you tell me some more about your musical background?
I started learning to play the violin at age 7, taking private lessons and playing in school orchestras. In my teenage years, after having trained classically to an advanced level, I branched out to playing in jazz ensembles and Irish/Celtic fiddle groups. I am fortunate to have been taught by several members of the Rhode Island Philharmonic, and have played in the Rhode Island Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, Ocean State Youth Orchestra, Rhode Island College Chamber Orchestra, various string quartets and chamber groups, and orchestra pits for musical theatre productions. I have also played violin in two original local bands, and performed as a singer-songwriter and frontman. As part of bands and as a solo performer, I have played many venues in RI, including The MET, Park Theater, Jerky's, Firehouse 13, AS220, and Brooklyn Coffee & Tea House. I am self-taught in guitar, bass, and keyboard, and have some classical vocal training.
As you can see, I am not your average classical violinist. Although classical music is an essential foundation of my playing and teaching process, I am open to whatever types of music you are looking to learn. Whether you are looking to polish your classical skills on violin, start expanding your range of styles, or get started on a new instrument, we can work together to create a learning plan that is customized to your goals. This is your chance to find your voice and develop a style, and it can be as rigorous or as flexible as you want it to be! All I ask is that you come with an open mind and willingness to accept new challenges.
What ages and skill levels do you teach?
I teach children, teens, and adults of all ages. For violin, I will accept beginner, intermediate, and advanced students. For guitar and piano, I am only accepting beginners. When you have reached a level on guitar or piano that surpasses my teaching abilities, I will refer you to another instructor that suits your needs.
Should I take half-hour or full hour lessons?
It depends on your personal learning style. If you are very self-directed, and only need an instructor to demonstrate a few exercises and techniques for you to take home and practice on your own, then half-hour lessons are your best option. Younger children who have trouble focusing on one thing for an extended period of time also do better with half-hour lessons. For teen and adult students who are new to playing music, I will usually recommend the full hour as it will give you a chance to learn new techniques correctly and properly, and also give me a chance to help you develop a practice routine that will keep you moving forward in your abilities in between lessons. If you are unsure of how to practice, or need guidance to work on a particularly challenging piece, then you will benefit most from a full hour lesson.
I want to learn a specific melody line or riff from a song, can you teach it to me?
Yes, I can figure out virtually any line from a song, provided I can listen to it a few times. I can transpose it into sheet music that you can read, and also teach it to you by ear.
I want to write my own music, can you help me?
Yes! I am very interested in helping others learn to write original music. I am skilled in both music theory and playing by ear, both of which are useful in writing instrumental parts. I am also an experienced lyricist and creative writing instructor and can help you figure out how to write words that fit into your music and effectively communicate the message you are trying to get across.
Where are you located? Can you come to me?
I have two teaching studio locations, one in Cranston and one in Providence. Both are easily accessible. Schedule permitting, I also make house calls, but I will require a $3 transportation fee per lesson to cover my gas costs. If I am coming to your home to teach, please make sure you have a space where we can work undisturbed and free from distraction.
For answers to any other questions, call Kian (Kee-an) at (401) 545-2557 or email kianxie@gmail.com. Hope to hear from you soon!