Hi I’m Randy! I teach voice, piano, guitar, and ukulele. I graduated from the University of the Arts with a B.M. in Vocal Performance and a minor in Music Education. I’ve been playing music for as long as I can remember with experience in classical, musical theatre, jazz, pop, and other genres. I’m also a songwriter and producer and encourage my students to explore their own creativity. 

My goal is to help foster the student’s love for music, as well as teach proper technique to go along with it. I believe that music is one of the incredible joys of being alive and I hope to remove any feelings of intimidation a student may have about learning.

When did you begin singing, and why?

I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember. I have early memories of sitting in the back seat of the car and trying to sing along to whatever was on the radio. It’s hard to say what one thing brought me to music and singing, but it’s just something I’ve always had a strong love for. There’s something incredibly special about being able to express yourself through music, as well as being able to connect with others.

What other instruments do you play, and what is your experience with them?

Voice, piano, and guitar are my main instruments, but I’ve also played a bit of the bass. I produce and record my own music, and so I’ve learned enough of the bass to be able to play on my own records!

What are your personal goals as a musician?

 In the future, I hope to record an album of my original music and perform these songs live with a band. Another lifelong goal is simply being able to connect with others through music whether that’s through performing or teaching.

Do you have a memory of a time when a musical concept or technique really clicked?  Something you’ll remember forever?

I used to be afraid to write my own music, because I was worried about it not being “perfect.” Fortunately, I had teachers who encouraged me to keep writing and who helped me along the way. With that I found so much freedom and joy with expressing my own original, musical ideas.

What is your favorite piece of advice from one of your past (or current) teachers?

Be a sponge! One of my teachers at The University of the Arts, Jeffrey Kern, would tell us to absorb as much knowledge and information as we can. You never know where and when you can learn- it doesn’t necessarily have to be in lessons or at school. We learn new things every day!

What was your most challenging moment learning an instrument?

It took me a few tries to learn guitar, because it’s not the easiest on the fingers. However, I’m so glad I stuck with it, because now it’s one of my favorite instruments to play and write with.

What is your biggest musical achievement?

Last year I released my first EP which is something I never thought I’d do. I was always very hesitant to write my own music, but with the encouragement of wonderful music teachers over the years, they gave me the confidence I needed.

Favorite thing about teaching?

Seeing students surprise themselves with their talent! It’s so easy to get caught up in the process of practicing and wanting to improve that often students don’t realize how far they’ve come. Seeing their excitement with their growth makes me excited!

What is a piece of advice you would like to share with anyone learning music?

Don’t be too hard on yourself! Everyone has to start from somewhere, so even when things may be difficult, keep pushing and don’t get discouraged. Find what you love about music and keep watering that seed, because it’ll grow into something amazing.

Personal music projects:

I write and record my own original music under the name Randy Louise and I also sing in the band Granddogs. Both of these projects you can find anywhere you listen to music!