Find composition lessons near you

Find composition lessons near you

Develop your ideas into finished songs, scores or soundscapes with guidance from experienced composers.

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Composition
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Featured composition tutors

Browse composition tutors who teach songwriting, scoring, orchestration and contemporary composition techniques.

9 found
Oliver Atkins - Composition teacher
Oliver Atkins
CompositionOnline
25
Official registryTrust signals (soon)

Ollie is a full-time, self-employed professional musician based in the South-East of England. He is an accomplished vocalist and pianist with over ten years of professional industry experience, performing regularly in London and throughout the UK, as well as internationally across Europe and the United States. He holds a Master of Music degree (MMus, Distinction) from the London College of Music, graduating top of his class. His academic background reflects a deep knowledge of popular music, underpinned by rigorous scholarly engagement at a leading London university. Ollie works as a freelance professional musician, offering a broad range of services including live performance, sound and production, composition, arranging, studio recording, and videography. His repertoire spans multiple genres, including Pop, Rock, R&B, and Jazz, and he performs both as a solo artist and as part of various band line-ups. His professional experience includes roles as Musical Director and Band Leader across musical theatre, pop and rock projects, and vocal ensembles. He performs regularly as a singer-pianist in and around the London area. Alongside his performance career, Ollie is a qualified keyboard teacher affiliated with Yamaha Music UK and has served as Head Teacher of a music school for the past ten years. He is also an experienced songwriter and lyricist, collaborating across a range of genres with a particular focus on Pop and Rock. Songwriting commissions, as well as original music for film and television, are available upon request. Further experience includes an extensive portfolio in studio recording, working as a studio engineer and producer. Ollie’s creative output is frequently showcased through professionally produced audio-visual content, including videography with green screen capabilities.

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Adam Soper - Composition teacher
Adam Soper
CompositionOnline
£25
Official registryTrust signals (soon)

I have extensive teaching experience (10+ years), and have worked as a teacher for Newcastle University (as an Associate Lecturer in performance and composition, and as a tutor in song-writing and performance studies), Northumberland County Council (as a peripatetic guitar tutor), and the Rock Project Newcastle (as a guitar and bass tutor and session leader). I am a registered guitar tutor with RSL and Trinity College London, an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, and a member of the Independent Society of Musicians. I have a 100% pass rate for students sitting exams (initial grades through to Grade 8 and diploma) with Rockschool, Trinity, Trinity Rock and Pop, and the London College of Music exam boards. As a professional musician, I have over twelve years’ experience and have toured the UK as headline act and main support for international artists and performed at major UK music festivals. I have worked with numerous independent record labels and institutions such as the Church of England, the North East Folklore Society, the Newcastle Lit&Phil Society, and the rural arts organisation Slop Projects. My work has been funded by the Peter Warlock Society, Norfolk County Council, the Newcastle Performance Research Network, and the Newcastle Institute for Creative Arts Practice. As a creative practice and education researcher I have presented my research to multiple conferences including the annual Association for Popular Music Education conference at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (2025), and the 3 Rivers Regional Teaching Conference at Teesside University (2024). My writing has featured in multiple industry and research publications, and my book The Songs of Peter Warlock Arranged for Guitar is published by Goodmusic Publishing. I have a PhD in Creative Music Practice from Newcastle University, the theme of which was on the use of improvised composition-performance as a tool to seek out occluded knowledge. I am fully DBS checked and hold Personal Liability Insurance.

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Michael Semark - Composition teacher
Michael Semark
CompositionOnline
£23
Official registryTrust signals (soon)

My name is Michael Semark (Mike). I've been playing guitar for over 10 years and teaching privately and at a small music school in Reading since 2022. I am confident in teaching a diverse range of styles, from singer/songwriter-folk music on acoustic guitar to rock and metal on electric guitar, and am passionate about helping my students achieve their musical goals. I teach all levels, from absolute beginners (age 5+, unless requested otherwise, please get in touch!) to advanced guitarists (grade 8+, or any rock/metal/pop/jazz specialists, again, please get in touch!), and am confident in helping my students find their own unique voice on the instrument. I also teach music theory if you are interested in understanding the underlying mechanics behind music, as well as improvisation and composition, and ways to memorise and make sense of the guitar fretboard. I am DBS certified and a member of the Registry of Guitar Tutors, and have taught over 2000 lessons to hundreds of students over the years. I also currently hold a 100% merit/distinction rate for students who are taking their Rockschool (RSL Awards) grade and/or performance exams. I'm currently based in Basingstoke, Hampshire, and teach private 1-on-1 lessons from my teaching space at home; my main space is upstairs, but I can teach downstairs if you have accessibility requirements. I can also teach online via Zoom if required. If you are in a band/duo or are interested in group lessons, please get in touch, as I can accommodate if required. Feel free to contact me if you need any more information (michael.semark@gmail.com).

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Rob Ward - Composition teacher
Rob Ward
CompositionOnline
£30
Official registryTrust signals (soon)

I am an experienced Guitar Teacher now starting my 25th year of teaching the following music lessons- Electric Guitar Bass Guitar Acoustic Guitar Classical Guitar Drums Piano /Keyboards Ukulele Private Tuition is available for everybody from beginners to Advanced players in my home in Trunch and in your own home My students have achieved high grade results in the specialist music exams with RSL . Trinity and LCM and my home is also an exam centre for those students who wish to submit exams by digital video submission All ages and abilities are welcome for face to face 1:1 lessons , Group lessons and for distance tuition online lessons are available through Zoom and Google Location Oak Tree Cottage 31 Kingsleigh Close Trunch , North Walsham Norfolk NR28 0QU GB

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A & J Music Group - Composition teacher
A & J Music Group
CompositionOnline
£25
Official registryTrust signals (soon)

Hello, I’m Amy — a highly qualified and experienced vocal coach and professional performer with over 15 years in the music industry. I hold a degree in Professional Musicianship (Vocals) from BIMM Bristol and bring a wealth of real-world experience to my teaching, with a background that includes cruise ship performances, studio session work, musical theatre, and festival stages such as Glastonbury. I’ve worked as the Assistant Musical Director for Bristol’s Bass Choir, currently lead the Bristol Rock Centre Choir, and remain actively involved in the UK music scene. I offer tailored vocal tuition for all ages and abilities — from beginners to advanced singers — with a focus on building vocal technique, confidence, and performance skills across a wide range of styles including pop, rock, indie, soul, R&B, and jazz. Whether you’re singing for enjoyment, preparing for performances or auditions, or pursuing a professional path in music, I create engaging, supportive lessons to suit your individual goals. I also provide specialist coaching for Rockschool vocal grades, offering clear guidance and preparation for each level of the syllabus. Lessons are available both online and in person, with teaching spaces in Bristol and in Newport city centre. As a working musician, I offer current industry insight and professional-level training in a fun, encouraging environment — helping you discover and develop your unique voice with confidence.

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Amy Louise - Composition teacher
Amy Louise
CompositionOnline
25
Official registryTrust signals (soon)

Hello, I’m Amy — a highly qualified and experienced vocal coach and professional performer with over 15 years in the music industry. I hold a degree in Professional Musicianship (Vocals) from BIMM Bristol and bring a wealth of real-world experience to my teaching, with a background that includes cruise ship performances, studio session work, musical theatre, and festival stages such as Glastonbury. I’ve worked as the Assistant Musical Director for Bristol’s Bass Choir, currently lead the Bristol Rock Centre Choir, and remain actively involved in the UK music scene. I offer tailored vocal tuition for all ages and abilities — from beginners to advanced singers — with a focus on building vocal technique, confidence, and performance skills across a wide range of styles including pop, rock, indie, soul, R&B, and jazz. Whether you're singing for enjoyment, preparing for performances or auditions, or pursuing a professional path in music, I create engaging, supportive lessons to suit your individual goals. I also provide specialist coaching for Rockschool vocal grades, offering clear guidance and preparation for each level of the syllabus. Lessons are available both online and in person, with teaching spaces in Bristol in Backwell and in Newport city centre. As a working musician, I offer current industry insight and professional-level training in a fun, encouraging environment — helping you discover and develop your unique voice with confidence.

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Thomas Triggs - Composition teacher
Thomas Triggs
CompositionOnline
£15.00
Official registryTrust signals (soon)

Professional music tuition for drums, guitar, bass, ukulele, and music theory, taught by a dedicated touring musician. Tom is a charismatic full-time music tutor and multi-instrumentalist with over 9 years of teaching experience in both private and school settings. He has worked with SEND students aged 4–70, tailoring lessons to suit each individual’s goals, learning style, and experience level. Tom holds full public liability insurance, is a member of the Musicians’ Union, and is fully safeguarding trained, having completed the NSPCC Child Protection for Tutors and Child Protection in Education (Level 2 – Music) EduCare courses. Alongside hobbyist lessons, Tom prepares students for industry-recognised qualifications, including Trinity Guildhall, Trinity Rock & Pop, ABRSM, and Rockschool. His teaching focuses on enjoyment, strong fundamentals, music theory, effective practice habits, and clear musical communication. As a professional musician, Tom has spent the last decade touring across the UK, Europe, and the US, supporting artists such as Tom Meighan, The Blockheads, and The Lottery Winners, and performing at major festivals including Reading & Leeds, Isle of Wight, and TRNSMT. He has recorded at leading studios including Real World, Monnow Valley, and Livingston Studios, and received airplay across BBC Radio, Radio X, and major sports broadcasters. Drawing on real-world industry experience, Tom offers modern, engaging tuition that emphasises live performance skills, rehearsal planning, and long-term musical development.

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Augusto Gentili - Composition teacher
Augusto Gentili
CompositionOnline
20 €
Official registryTrust signals (soon)

I hold a BA Hons in Modern Music (First Class) from Middlesex University London (United Kingdom), complemented by advanced studies in Music Theory, Composition, and Musicology through institutions such as Universität Heidelberg (Germany), Scuola di Paleografia e Filologia Musicale of Cremona (Italy) and Fondazione Romanini of Brescia (Italy). My academic background is enriched by a Master's in Music Therapy and numerous certifications in music education, pedagogy, and AI for learning. With over three decades of professional experience as an electric bass performer, educator, and coordinator, I have developed a strong artistic and didactic aptitude. My teaching spans from early childhood to higher education, including international workshops and editorial contributions.

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Colin Bailey - Composition teacher
Colin Bailey
CompositionOnline
£20.00
Official registryTrust signals (soon)

Student-focused, enjoyable professional support Whether you are a complete beginner, returning to music later in life, have specific goals to achieve, or you're looking for a friendly mentor to help you turn your passion for music into a career, I can help. I offer support across several different instruments, meaning you can explore what you enjoy most. Sessions are focused on helping you play the music you love while building your confidence and skills. We work at your pace. No pressure, no "exam-only" focus (unless you want that!), just clear and helpful guidance to help you sound great. If you’ve ever felt intimidated by music theory, technical jargon, or past learning experiences, don’t worry - I am here to support you so you can get straight to playing and enjoying music. Sometimes, you need more than just a teacher; If you are feeling stuck or aren't sure how to take your music to the next stage, my sessions are designed to meet your learning needs and goals. I help you: Build your confidence: Shake off those nerves and start enjoying your performances. Set simple goals: We’ll create a roadmap that feels achievable, not exhausting. Stay motivated: I’m here to cheer you on and keep your creativity flowing. Growing Your Music Business Made Simple For those looking to make a living from music, the "business side" can feel like a totally different world. I specialise in helping creative people understand the basics of business development without the headache. If you want to start teaching others, booking more gigs, or organising your creative work, I provide mentoring, "Creative Knowledge", and support that is easy to understand and even easier to put into practice. Why Work With Me? I believe that everyone has a creative spark, and I aim to support you in developing and growing through music. My sessions offer a "hassle-free" space where you explore and thrive. You'll get plenty of encouragement, professional tips, and a supportive environment where no question is a "silly" one. I have been teaching and supporting community arts-based activities for over thirty years in and around the Yorkshire Dales, North Yorkshire. I administer BlueBoxt Creative and Performing Arts Charity and am a Music Leader for various ensembles and choirs. I believe that everyone has a creative spark, and my aim is to support you to develop and grow through music. My sessions offer a "hassle-free" space where you explore and thrive. You'll get plenty of encouragement, professional tips, and a supportive environment where no question is a "silly" one. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player looking to improve your skills and technique, you can be assured of a friendly and enjoyable learning experience. Ready to start? I’d love to hear about what you want to achieve

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About composition lessons

Composition lessons guide you from idea to finished piece, covering melody writing, harmony, structure, orchestration and production techniques — ideal for songwriters and aspiring composers alike.

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Composition lessons: what to expect

Composition lessons near you

Find composition tutors for in-person workshops or online mentoring tailored to your project goals.

Who composition lessons are for

Songwriters, aspiring film composers, and anyone wanting to develop arranging and compositional skills.

What you’ll learn in composition lessons

Melody, harmony, form, orchestration and practical production techniques for presenting your work.

Online vs in-person composition lessons

Online mentoring is excellent for score review and DAW-based workflows; in-person sessions are useful for ensemble readings and workshops.

A simple learning path for composition

A good teacher will tailor lessons to your goals — but here’s what progress often looks like.

Weeks 1–4: Ideas & craft
1

Work on melodic cells, harmonic foundations and small-scale forms to crystallise creative ideas.

Months 1–3: Arranging & harmony
2

Develop harmonic language, arrangement skills and orchestrational choices suited to your projects.

Months 3+: Presentation & portfolio
3

Produce finished scores, demos and build a portfolio for performance or submission.

Getting started: what you need

Keep it simple at first — your teacher can help you choose the right setup.

  • A DAW or notation software suitable to your workflow and simple recording tools for demos.
  • Reference scores and recordings to study structures and orchestration.
  • A regular sketching routine to capture ideas and try arrangements.

Styles & goals your teacher can support

Choose a direction — lessons can be tailored around what you actually want to play.

Songwriting
Popular

Structure, lyric-setting and demo production for songs.

Film & media scoring
Popular

Cue writing, spotting and synchronisation techniques for media.

Contemporary composition
Popular

Experimental techniques, electroacoustic methods and advanced notation.

Browse composition lessons by location

Explore composition teachers by city and region.

Popular cities for composition lessons

Jump to a location page (instrument prefilled).

Trust & safety

Parents and students should always feel confident asking about safeguarding, insurance, and lesson policies.

FAQs about composition lessons

Do I need to read notation to compose?

No — many composers work in DAWs; notation helps for scoring and orchestration but isn’t mandatory for starting out.

How do I develop ideas consistently?

Short daily sketching, reference listening and targeted exercises help build a steady compositional practice.