Jack Kotanen

Piano teacher for all ages and all experience levels. Music theory lessons also available.

4.8(32)

FREE TRIAL

Profile photo of Jack, Piano tutor at Wiingy
Graduation ceremony photo of Jack
Jackenjoying a hobby outside teaching
Digital pen-tab teaching notes by Jack

Show all photos

tutor-image
tutor-image

Jack Kotanen

Diploma degree

/ 55 min

Jack - Your piano teacher

I have been playing piano since I was four years old, primarily in classical, pop, and musical theatre styles. After graduating from a musical theatre conservatory program, I worked as a music director and musician for various concerts/cabarets. I have been teaching students of all ages and skill levels, focusing on proper note identification and understanding rhythm and music terminology. My lessons usually comprise of warm ups/exercises to develop knowledge of more technical aspects, such as scales, chords, and rhythm, as well as ensuring proper hand placement and posture to avoid fatigue or injury. I believe having a working understanding of how and why music works is an important aspect to learning any instrument. I also prioritize the music YOU want to learn, whether that be a specific song or style, or exploring various genres. Whether you are interested in playing primarily chords to accompany yourself as a vocalist, or you want to pursue complex classical pieces, I am happy to help you along your journey. I also have experience as a composer, writing and transcribing music in digital notation software. I am happy to offer feedback on any composition questions, whether you have experience writing or are interested in beginning.

Jack graduated from American Musical and Dramatic Academy

Jack graduated from American Musical and Dramatic Academy

Your piano teacher skills

Piano Technique icon

Piano Technique

Music theory icon

Music theory

Scales and Arpeggios icon

Scales and Arpeggios

Pedaling Techniques icon

Pedaling Techniques

Sight Reading icon

Sight Reading

Improvisation icon

Improvisation

Chord Theory icon

Chord Theory

Finger Placement & Hand Position icon

Finger Placement & Hand Position

CoTutorCoTutor

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 adults icon

Piano for adults

Piano for kids icon

Piano for kids

Piano for intermediate icon

Piano for intermediate

Piano for beginners icon

Piano for beginners

Different types of piano lessons

Piano

Piano

Grand Piano

Grand Piano

Digital Piano

Digital Piano

Upright Piano

Upright Piano

Classical Piano

Classical Piano

Electric Keyboard

Electric Keyboard

Icons

Piano concepts taught by Jack

Student learned 24 days ago

The student and Tutor focused on foundational singing techniques to improve the student's melodic range and vocal control for R&B, hip-hop, and pop music. They practiced vocal warm-ups, explored the impact of vowel sounds on note stability, and applied these concepts to the student's original songwriting. The session concluded with a plan for continued practice on vocal blending and dynamic control.

Vocal Warm-ups & Range Exploration

Soft Palate Engagement for Higher Notes

Vowel Modification for Pitch & Stability

Understanding Vocal Registers: Chest

Head

& Mix Voice

Dynamic Control: Breathy vs. Strong Singing

Embracing Vocal Instability for Growth

Show more

Student learned 24 days ago

The Student and Tutor conducted an introductory singing lesson focused on understanding the Student's vocal goals, current repertoire, and technical needs for upcoming auditions. They practiced breathing and vocal support exercises, applying them to "America the Beautiful" and "I Could Have Danced All Night." Follow-up plans include working on specific audition songs, selecting new material that showcases the Student's range, and developing performance quality.

Diaphragmatic Breathing & Abdominal Support

Physical Resistance for Vocal Stability

Strategic Breath Management in Performance

Audition Preparation & Performance Strategy

Acting Through Song & Stage Presence

Show more

Approach & tools used in piano classes

Ear Training Software image

Ear Training Software

Virtual Piano Apps image

Virtual Piano Apps

Chord & Scale Reference Apps image

Chord & Scale Reference Apps

Metronome Apps image

Metronome Apps

PDF Sheet Music Libraries image

PDF Sheet Music Libraries

tutorFooter

Piano teachers on Wiingy are vetted for quality

Every tutor is interviewed and selected for subject expertise and teaching skill.