Dr. Saman Samadi (PhD, Cambridge) Online, New York

Welcome! I am Dr. Saman Samadi, an accomplished composer, performer, and scholar with a PhD in Music from the University of Cambridge. My wife, Kristin Loretta Barone-Samadi, is a proficient and in-demand concert pianist. We both have over 20 years of teaching experience, spanning a wide range of ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced students. We offer personalized lessons in piano, violin, composition, and music theory. **Academic and Artistic Background:** I bring a robust background in teaching piano and violin, along with expertise in composition, music theory, improvisation, and musicology. I have taught at the Faculty of Music, University of Cambridge, and have consistently led various ensembles. In 2018, I brought together several talented alumni from the Manhattan School of Music to form the Saman Samadi Quintet. I have also led two other music ensembles in New York City, collaborating with highly experienced improvisers within the Downtown scene. Upon relocating to England, I established and directed the Cambridge University Experimental Music Ensemble, comprised of undergraduate and postgraduate students. My portfolio includes over one hundred creative works, performed globally over nearly two decades. I have received recognition and awards in various international music competitions, festivals, and organizations, including winning first prize at the 2012 Counterpoint-Italy International Composition Competition, the 2014 New York City Electroacoustic Music Festival, and obtaining an Artist Diploma from The New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA) in 2015. Additionally, from 2020 to 2023, I had the privilege of serving as President of the Wolfson College Music Society at the University of Cambridge. I am currently President and Chair of Studies in Composition and Theory at Conservatoire One. Kristin was born and raised in New York City and received her first piano lessons from her father when she was 5 years old. She started her formal training at Wagner College in NYC at the age of 10. Kristin received her BA in Performance in 2006 from Adelphi University, graduating cum laude and receiving the James Gould Award for Excellence in Music. She earned her Master's Degree in 2008 from the Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College, City University of New York, where she also received her advanced degree, an Artist Diploma in chamber music, in 2009. Kristin has performed internationally as a soloist and chamber musician. Kristin has collaborated with many world-class musicians and formed ensembles such as Trio de Reínas, Persephone Trio, Samadi-Keene Duo, and many more. Kristin enjoys a successful teaching career and has been a faculty member at the Brooklyn Music House, The Piano School of NYC, Long Beach Music, Oceanside Music, and Adelphi University in New York, as well as St John's College School and Abbey College in Cambridge, England. Kristin is a strong advocate of the training programs of Madeline Bruser (author of “The Art of Practicing”), applying this method in her teaching philosophy. She discovered its utility and value during her time as a faculty member at the Sound of Manhattan Music Festival in 2018, where she taught several masterclasses and judged the competition. Kristin saw tangible results in this method and continues to use it today. **Teaching Philosophy:** Our teaching philosophy emphasizes creating a supportive and creative learning environment where students can explore and express themselves through music. We believe in tailoring lessons to meet the unique needs of each student, fostering their individual growth and passion for music. Our holistic approach to teaching integrates technical skills with an appreciation of music's historical and cultural contexts. **Programs Offered:** We offer comprehensive and flexible music programs in both performance (piano or violin) and composition. The performance program caters to students of all ages and skill levels; it is structured into three stages: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced, ensuring a thorough and progressive learning experience. Whether you are seeking lessons for a young child starting their musical journey, an adolescent refining their skills, or an adult aspiring to deepen their musical knowledge, our programs provide personalized instruction tailored to your unique needs and goals. The composition program is designed for adolescents and adults, ideally with some prior musical background, though it is not required. This program is fully customizable to accommodate any skill level, from complete beginners to emerging composers. **Why Choose Us?** * Expertise: With extensive academic and practical experience, we bring a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success in music education. * Personalized Approach: Each lesson is customized to suit your unique needs and aspirations, ensuring a fulfilling and effective learning experience. * Supportive Environment: We strive to create a positive and encouraging atmosphere where students feel motivated and confident in their musical journey. **Get in Touch:** Are you ready to embark on your musical journey? Contact me today to schedule a complimentary consultation! --- **Music Performance Program (Piano or Violin)** **Program Overview:** I designed this comprehensive music program to develop skills in piano or violin across three stages: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced. While the program is structured to span approximately five years, it offers high flexibility and can be customized to suit the individual needs of each student. The duration of each stage may vary based on the student's level and age, allowing for a personalized learning experience that adapts to their pace and progress. This ensures that every student, regardless of their starting point or age, receives a tailored and effective music education. **Stage 1: Beginner (1.5 years)** *Objectives:* * Develop basic techniques for piano or violin. * Introduce music notation and theory. * Establish regular practice habits. *Curriculum:* * Months 1-6: * Introduction to the instrument, posture, and hand position. * Basic finger exercises and scales (C major, G major for piano; D major, A major for violin). * Simple pieces using both hands (piano) or both hands and bowing (violin). * Introduction to music notation and rhythm. * Months 7-12: * Expand scales to include D major, A major, and E minor (piano); G major, E minor, and B minor (violin). * Simple chord progressions (piano) or double stops (violin) and arpeggios. * More complex pieces incorporating both hands or bowing techniques. * Basic music theory: intervals, key signatures, and simple time signatures. * Months 13-18: * Introduction to dynamics and articulation. * Minor scales and introduction to minor keys. * Pieces from classical repertoire (e.g., Bach’s Minuets for both instruments). * Sight-reading and ear training exercises. **Stage 2: Intermediate (1.5 years)** *Objectives:* * Enhance technical skills and musicality. * Introduce advanced theory and harmony. * Develop a diverse repertoire. *Curriculum:* * Months 19-24: * Advanced scales and arpeggios (all major and minor keys). * Introduction to pedaling techniques (piano) or advanced bowing techniques (violin). * Intermediate pieces (e.g., Clementi Sonatinas for piano, Vivaldi Concertos for violin). * Intermediate music theory: chord inversions (piano), harmonic progressions. * Months 25-30: * Technical exercises (e.g., Hanon, Czerny for piano; Sevcik, Schradieck for violin). * More complex pieces from the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic periods. * Introduction to sight-reading more challenging music. * Analysis of musical forms (e.g., binary, ternary, sonata-allegro). * Months 31-36: * Focus on interpretation and expressiveness. * Expanding the repertoire to include contemporary pieces. * Advanced theory: modulation, counterpoint basics. * Performance practice and recital preparation. **Stage 3: Advanced (1.5 years)** *Objectives:* * Master advanced technical skills. * Develop personal interpretation and style. * Prepare for advanced performance and competitions. *Curriculum:* * Months 37-42: * Advanced technical studies. * Complex repertoire (e.g., Beethoven Sonatas for piano; Bach Partitas for violin). * Advanced harmony and counterpoint. * Sight-reading complex scores. * Months 43-48: * Focus on performance techniques. * Masterpieces from various musical eras. * Advanced music theory: analysis of large-scale works. * Ensemble playing and accompaniment skills. * Months 49-54: * Preparation for solo recitals and/or competitions. * Refinement of personal repertoire. * Masterclasses and/or performance workshops. * Final recital. **Flexible Syllabus for Different Age Groups and Skill Levels** *Beginner Level* * Young Children (ages 5-10): * Introduction to the instrument: Keyboard geography (piano) or string and bow setup (violin), posture, and hand position. * Basic rhythms and note values: Clapping and playing simple rhythms. * Learning the musical alphabet and simple songs. * Introduction to music notation: Treble clef notes (both instruments). * Simple right-hand melodies and left-hand basics (piano); basic bowing and finger placement (violin). * Dynamics and articulation: Playing soft and loud. * Introduction to simple chords (piano) or open strings and simple melodies (violin). * Introduction to scales: C major scale (piano); D major scale (violin). * Recital preparation and performance. * Adolescents (ages 11-17): * Introduction to the instrument and basic music theory. * Simple rhythms and note values. * Learning treble and bass clef notes (piano); treble clef and simple fingerings (violin). * Right and left hand coordination: Simple songs (piano); bowing and finger coordination (violin). * Introduction to chords: Major and minor (piano); simple double stops (violin). * Playing popular songs and simple classical pieces. * Basic sight-reading skills. * Introduction to scales and arpeggios. * Developing dynamics and expression. * Introduction to improvisation. * Preparing for a recital: Solo and duet pieces. * Recital performance and feedback. * Adults (ages 18+): * Introduction to the instrument and basic posture. * Learning note values and rhythms. * Reading music: Treble and bass clef (piano); treble clef and finger positions (violin). * Simple melodies and left-hand accompaniments (piano); basic melodies and bowing (violin). * Introduction to chords and harmony. * Playing simple classical and popular pieces. * Developing finger strength and coordination. * Introduction to scales and technical exercises. * Sight-reading and ear training. * Basics of improvisation and/or composition. * Preparing for a recital or informal performance. * Performance and review. *Intermediate Level* * Young Children (ages 5-10): * Review of basic concepts and scales. * Intermediate rhythms and syncopation. * Playing two-part inventions (piano) or simple duets (violin). * Introduction to pedal use (piano) or advanced bowing techniques (violin). * More complex chords and arpeggios. * Developing expressive playing and dynamics. * Sight-reading intermediate pieces. * Introduction to different musical styles. * Learning and playing intermediate classical pieces. * Basics of music theory: Intervals and chord progressions. * Preparing for a recital or exam pieces. * Recital performance and feedback. * Adolescents (ages 11-17): * Review of scales and basic chords. * Intermediate sight-reading and ear training. * Playing sonatinas (piano) or concertos (violin) and simple classical pieces. * Introduction to different genres: Jazz, blues, pop. * Developing technical skills: Hanon exercises (piano); Sevcik exercises (violin). * Introduction to music theory: Key signatures and chord progressions. * Playing with expression and dynamics. * Learning to accompany and play duets. * Basics of improvisation and composition. * Preparing for performances and exams. * Playing and analyzing intermediate repertoire. * Recital performance and feedback. * Adults (ages 18+): * Review of basic techniques and scales. * Intermediate rhythm and syncopation. * Playing classical sonatinas (piano) or simple concertos (violin) and jazz pieces. * Introduction to chord progressions and harmonization. * Developing technical proficiency with exercises. * Intermediate sight-reading and ear training. * Playing with advanced dynamics and expression. * Basics of improvisation and jazz standards. * Introduction to music theory: Modulation and advanced chords. * Preparing for recitals or informal performances. * Learning and interpreting intermediate repertoire. * Performance and review. *Advanced Level* * Young Children (ages 5-10): * Advanced scale and arpeggio techniques. * Playing more complex classical pieces. * Advanced sight-reading skills. * Introduction to advanced rhythms and polyrhythms. * Developing artistic interpretation and expression. * Playing with advanced pedal techniques (piano) or advanced bowing (violin). * Introduction to compositional techniques. * Learning advanced repertoire: Baroque, classical, romantic. * Preparing for competitions and exams. * Mastering performance techniques. * Analyzing and interpreting complex music. * Recital performance and masterclass. * Adolescents (ages 11-17): * Advanced scales, arpeggios, and technical exercises. * Playing complex classical and contemporary pieces. * Advanced sight-reading and ear training. * Understanding and performing different musical styles. * Introduction to advanced music theory: Counterpoint and harmony. * Developing personal interpretation and artistic expression. * Basics of advanced improvisation and composition. * Preparing for advanced exams and competitions. * Playing in ensembles and accompanying. * Learning and analyzing advanced repertoire. * Performance preparation and techniques. * Recital and feedback. * Adults (ages 18+): * Advanced techniques and exercises. * Playing complex classical and jazz pieces. * Advanced sight-reading and music theory. * Developing artistic interpretation and expressive playing. * Advanced chord progressions and harmonization. * Improvisation techniques for jazz and classical. * Preparing for performances and recitals. * Learning advanced repertoire and analyzing music. * Introduction to advanced compositional techniques. * Preparing for exams or public performances. * Mastering advanced pedal (piano) and articulation techniques. * Recital performance and review. **Additional Resources:** * Recommended Books and Sheet Music * Online Resources and Apps for Practice * List of Suggested Pieces for Each Level * Practice Tips and Techniques **Assessment and Evaluation:** * Regular Progress Reviews * Informal and Formal Performances * Personalized Feedback and Goal Setting * Optional Exams and/or Competitions **Flexibility and Customization:** The syllabus allows for flexibility to adjust the pace and content based on the student's progress and interests. Regular assessments and feedback sessions ensure personalized instruction tailored to each student's needs and goals. The program can be adapted to accommodate various learning speeds, preferred music styles, and specific interests of the students, whether they are young children, adolescents, or adults. **Program Benefits:** * Comprehensive Learning: The structured yet flexible approach ensures a thorough understanding and mastery of piano or violin skills. * Individual Attention: Personalized feedback and goal setting provide a customized learning experience. * Diverse Repertoire: Exposure to a wide range of musical styles and periods helps develop a well-rounded musician. * Performance Opportunities: Regular recitals and performance workshops build confidence and stage presence. * Music Theory Integration: A strong foundation in music theory enhances practical skills and musical understanding. * Long-Term Development: The multi-year structure promotes sustained growth and achievement. I designed this comprehensive music program for piano and violin to offer a structured and adaptable learning path for students of all ages and skill levels. I aim to foster a lifelong appreciation and understanding of music, cultivating not only technical proficiency but also artistic expression and personal growth. Whether the goal is to perform professionally, enjoy playing as a hobby, or achieve academic success in music, I provide the tools and guidance necessary to reach those aspirations through this program. --- **Music Composition Program** **Program Overview:** I designed this comprehensive music composition program to develop your compositional skills through an in-depth exploration of creative processes, techniques, styles, and career-building strategies. Although the program is structured to span 80 weeks, it is flexible and customizable. Drawing from "The Cambridge Companion to Composition" (Cambridge University Press), the program covers a wide range of topics to help you find your unique compositional voice and succeed in the professional world of music composition. The program includes exploring creative processes, mastering compositional techniques, understanding various styles and conventions, and building a successful career in composition. **Program Structure:** *Part I: Creative Processes* 1. Sources of Inspiration (Weeks 1-4) * Discover a variety of creative triggers and practice techniques to harness inspiration in composition. 2. Using Analysis in Composition (Weeks 5-8) * Learn to deconstruct and analyze music to inform and enhance your own compositional techniques. 3. Techniques for Linear Expansion (Weeks 9-12) * Develop skills to transform simple musical ideas into expansive, cohesive pieces. 4. Writing for Instruments (Weeks 13-16) * Experiment with different instruments and learn how their unique characteristics can inspire creativity. 5. Developing Compositional Sketches (Weeks 17-20) * Progress from initial musical sketches to fully realized scores, emphasizing development and refinement. *Part II: Techniques* 6. Composing for Ensembles (Weeks 21-24) * Study the dynamics and techniques essential for writing music for various ensemble configurations. 7. Orchestral Writing Techniques (Weeks 25-28) * Focus on the intricacies of orchestration and the challenges of composing for a full orchestra. 8. Writing for Voice (Weeks 29-32) * Explore the art of vocal composition, including effective text setting and vocal arrangement. 9. Composing for Choir (Weeks 33-36) * Understand choral textures and harmonies, and how to write compelling pieces for choirs. 10. Writing for Stage Productions (Weeks 37-40) * Delve into composing for operas and musicals, with an emphasis on storytelling through music. 11. Composing for Film and TV (Weeks 41-44) * Learn the specialized techniques required for composing music that complements visual media. *Part III: Styles, Conventions, and Issues* 12. Contemporary Notation (Weeks 45-48) * Examine modern notation methods and experiment with innovative ways to convey musical ideas. 13. Sonorities and Spectra (Weeks 49-52) * Investigate the use of timbre and spectral techniques to create unique soundscapes. 14. Electronic Composition Techniques (Weeks 53-56) * Explore the tools and history of electronic music composition, and create your own electronic pieces. 15. Cross-Cultural Composition (Weeks 57-60) * Study the integration of diverse cultural elements in composition and practice incorporating them into original works. 16. Composition Adaptation Techniques (Weeks 61-64) * Learn to adapt and transform existing musical works into new, original compositions. 17. Ecological and Environmental Composition (Weeks 65-68) * Understand the principles of ecological listening and incorporate environmental elements into your music. *Part IV: Building a Career* 18. Finding Your Compositional Voice (Weeks 69-72) * Engage in exercises aimed at helping you discover and refine your unique musical style. 19. Composer Storytelling and Networking (Weeks 73-76) * Develop skills in storytelling and networking to effectively communicate your musical journey. 20. Practical Career Tips for Composers (Weeks 77-80) * Gain practical advice on building a successful career in composition, from funding to professional opportunities. **Assessment and Evaluation:** * Regular progress reviews. * Submission of compositions for feedback. * Informal and formal performances. * Personalized feedback and goal setting. **Flexibility and Customization:** I designed this program to allow for flexibility in pace and content based on each student's progress and interests. The estimated weeks for each topic are flexible and may be adjusted to accommodate the level and needs of the students. Regular assessments and feedback sessions ensure a personalized learning experience tailored to individual needs and goals. I aim to provide a comprehensive and adaptable learning path through this music composition program, fostering a deep understanding of compositional techniques and helping students develop their own unique voices. Whether you are aspiring to a professional career or seeking personal enrichment, I offer the tools and guidance necessary to succeed in your musical journey.