Why lessons with me? What to expect? 

All students can expect lessons to be driven by positive reinforcement, curiosity, guided playfulness, and a thoroughness that encourages growth. As a teacher, I aim to use fun and enjoyment of playing as the vehicle to teach strong technical skills, not the other way around.

I use a variety of approaches tailored to each student’s goals and how they best learn. Everyone has different interests and strengths, and I find students most enjoy and grow from their lessons when we can hone in on those things while still building a solid musical foundation. I've always had an interdisciplinary approach to my own music and see it work well with my students. We'll find what works best for you and build on it!

I am confident in teaching classical, jazz, blues, pop, rock, singer-songwriter, electronic music, and more. We'll suppplement with a tailored mix of music theory, ear training, composition, production, improv, and group skills.

For students primarily interested in learning piano, a sizable portion of each lesson will be spent working physical fundamentals (scales, chords, arpeggios) and then using ear training and theory to apply them to piece acquisition, songwriting, improvisation, etc. according to student goals.

For students more interested in composition and/or production, piano skills are still pursued, although perhaps to a lesser extent; this allows time for song analysis, idea sharing, exploring composition techniques, and composing within a DAW.

My home studio is located in Raleigh, NC and includes two full-size digital keyboards, a full DAW and MIDI production setup, guitars, basses, amps, and comfortable seating for spectators. I can travel for lessons, although my home studio is preferred. I also offer lessons through webcam.

Lessons are for children, teenagers, and adults. Beginner, intermediate, and advanced students are all welcome.

I teach year-round and am currently taking on new students. Reach out to see if we're a good fit!

About Me

I’ve been playing piano since age 10. I started with classical piano, which eventually took me to UNC Chapel Hill for my undergrad. I eventually switched into the jazz program there and graduated with a B.M. in piano performance. I’ve picked up several instruments along the way, primarily guitar and bass, and have gigged professionally in jazz groups, rock/metal bands, singer-songwriter duos, DJ sets, and more.

Beyond performance, I’ve spent a lot of time over the years composing in various genres. I have several works published that include classical piano recordings, orchestral compositions, electronic music, and jazz. My music is on all major platforms under "Squid Kid".

My primary job for the last ten years has been teaching gymnastics, including competitive, recreational, and preschool. I really enjoy working with kids, as well as adults. Outside of music, my biggest passions lately have been aerial (silks, straps, and sling), juggling, and dance. I recently stepped into that world of performing and have been absolutely loving it!

Contact and Media

Phone: 252-489-5483

Email: brakeobx@gmail.com

IG: @hunterbrakepianostudio

Spotify: Squid Kid