Japs Cunanan
Discover the Art of Improvisation, learn Piano and Theory, Jazz, Classical and note reading




Show all photos
Japs Cunanan
Bachelors degree
/ 55 min
Japs - Your piano teacher
Hi, I'm Japs—a passionate music educator with formal university training and over 12 years of teaching experience. I specialize in a variety of subjects including music theory, ear training, improvisation, sight-reading, and more. Whether you're into Jazz, Classical Piano, Pop, or a blend of styles, I provide lessons tailored to your skill level—from complete beginners to advanced players. My teaching style is flexible and student-centered, focusing on personalized learning to enhance performance skills, develop solid technique, and deepen musical understanding. I aim to make every lesson engaging, productive, and fun. Whether you're preparing for exams, competitions, auditions, performances, or just want to enjoy making music, I’m here to support your goals. Let’s hit the right notes together in your musical journey and unlock your full creative potential!
Japs graduated from St. Paul University


Your piano teacher skills
Piano Technique
Chord Theory
Finger Placement & Hand Position
Improvisation
Music theory
Scales and Arpeggios
Performance Skills
Rhythm and Timing
AI modules
Summary
Podcast
Quiz
Learnings
Flashcard
Spotlight
Zero Risk Guaranteed
15-days refund
Free tutor swap
No cancel fee
1-yr validity
24/7 support
Types of learners for piano lessons
Piano for advanced
Piano for adults
Piano for intermediate
Piano for kids
Piano for beginners
Piano lessons at a glance
My teaching methodology is student-centered and tailored to each learner’s unique goals, learning style, and pace. I believe that music education should be both structured and inspiring, so I combine technical training with creative exploration. Lessons include a balanced mix of music theory, ear training, sight-reading, improvisation, and performance skills. Whether a student prefers learning by ear or through sheet music, I adapt my approach to suit their needs. I encourage consistent practice, clear goal-setting, and musical expression to build strong fundamentals and confidence. I also integrate listening and analysis to deepen musical understanding. From beginners discovering the basics to advanced students preparing for performances, auditions, or exams, I strive to create a supportive, engaging, and motivating environment that fosters growth, discipline, and a lifelong love of music. My goal is to help each student become a confident, independent, and expressive musician.
Different types of piano lessons
Piano
Grand Piano
Player Piano
Digital Piano
Upright Piano
Jazz Piano

Piano concepts taught by Japs
The Student and Tutor reviewed the right-hand melody of "The Girl From Ipanema" and then extensively covered advanced jazz chords for the left hand, including major 7, minor 7, dominant 7, and altered dominant chords. They practiced identifying and constructing these chords, discussing proper practice techniques like bar counting and maintaining hand position. The Student received a chord chart and was assigned to practice the left-hand chords separately, with plans to integrate them with the melody in future sessions.
Understanding Enharmonic Equivalents
Optimizing Piano Practice for Chord & Melody Integration
Interpreting Advanced Jazz Chord Symbols
Deconstructing Complex Chord Alterations
The Student and Tutor worked on piano pieces, beginning with '10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord Oh My Soul)' where the Student focused on improving left-hand technique and note reading. They then transitioned to learning a new, easier song, 'This is the Day,' practicing both its melody and chords in the key of G. For homework, the Student will print the new sheet music, add chord notations, and continue practicing both songs.
Basic Sheet Music Reading
Introducing Chords in Key of G
Combining Melody and Chords
Effective Practice Strategies
Isolating Hands for Practice
Student and Tutor worked on ear training, familiarizing themselves with chord families across different keys, and understanding common chords. They then deeply analyzed chord progressions, passing chords, and 'over chords' in John Lennon's 'Imagine.' Homework included practicing progressions in various keys, brushing up on previous songs, and listening to new pieces to identify their chord structures.
Practical Chord Voicing and Comping Techniques
Common Chords & The Circle of Fifths
Passing Chords
Turnarounds
& "Over" Chords
Key & Chord Family Familiarization
Understanding Chord Progressions & Numeric Analysis
The Student and Tutor engaged in a piano lesson covering foundational music theory and practical application. They reviewed chord inversions, including root, first, and second positions, and practiced identifying melody, harmony, and bass notes. The Student applied these concepts to playing specific chords and a section of a song, while also discussing strategies for using online resources for self-study and practicing new pieces.
Personal Responsibility in Practice
Chord Inversions: Redefining the Bass
Chord Structure: Intervals and Alterations
"Over Chord" Notation for Inversions
Strategies for Music Learning & Performance
The Student and Tutor practiced piano techniques, including rhythm maintenance for an existing song, and effective sheet music management. They commenced learning chords for a new piece, "Girl from Ipanema," covering F major 7, G7, G minor 7, and G♭7♭5. The Student was assigned to practice these new chords and continue with their current song.
Strategic Practice Techniques
Understanding Tied Notes and Bar Lines
Sheet Music Organization for Seamless Play
Advanced 7th Chords Introduction
Playing with Backing Tracks for Timing
Chord Voicing & Hand Distribution
The Student showcased a prepared piece, prompting the Tutor to offer advice on performance preparation and strategies for advanced song development. They explored detailed reharmonization techniques and practiced exercises to improve hand independence. The Tutor also provided guidance for future practice and study.
Strategic Performance Preparation
New Age Melody-Chord Voicing
Advanced Reharmonization Strategies
Cultivating Piano Hand Coordination
Enhancing Left-Hand Accompaniment
Approach & tools used in piano classes
Looping Software
Backing Track Libraries
Chord & Scale Reference Apps
DAWs
Metronome Apps
Ear Training Software
Interactive piano lessons
Record lessons
Open Q&A
Pets are welcomed
Mobile joining
Chat for quick help

Piano teachers on Wiingy are vetted for quality
Every tutor is interviewed and selected for subject expertise and teaching skill.
