Teaching

My passion for education comes from my love of music. As musicians, our learning begins with the source. A melody catches our ear, a strum of a chord brings nostalgia, a rhythm makes us want to dance: these are the moments that connect us to a musical experience. 

My pedagogy centers around understanding these moments, the mechanics of music. Having taught privately for over 10 years, I’ve found that students have different ways of understanding fundamental concepts. Two gifted musicians might process the same information in two completely different ways. It is my job as an instructor to do more than teach material. I need to identify the way that each student processes new concepts and build a common language for comprehension, while always nurturing that spark and passion that brought them to music in the first place.

Since 2015, I’ve been teaching jazz piano, music theory, aural training, and improvisation through the Boyer College of Music at Temple University. In 2016 I was hired at The University of the Arts as an ensemble coach and a Senior Lecturer in music theory and jazz piano. In my private studio, I’ve taught students of all ages, musical backgrounds, and skill levels: young musicians with a growing interest in music and piano; adult beginners looking to have fun with a new hobby; and graduates of collegiate music programs continuing their studies. I find joy in helping students of all levels build connections to the music they are passionate about.

For rates and more information, please contact me.

Testimonials

“Tim is a fantastic musician and an excellent piano teacher. I have been his student for the past 3 years. I was scarred by rigid, classical-only, piano instruction when I was a kid. With Tim's support, I overcome my fear of getting it "wrong" and rediscovered my love of music. I look forward to my lessons every week. He's punctual, passionate, and always a perfect gentleman.”

— Nyasha

“I’ve worked with a number of piano teachers during my 18 years of playing and Tim has been by far the most influential, as well as easiest to work with. He asks what you want to work on and caters to your individual needs and experiences as a musician. I’ve never looked at lessons as a truly positive experience until working with Tim. I look forward to continuing lessons with Tim and becoming a better player because of his passion and dedication.”

— Matt

“Our 11 year old daughter recently switched to taking lessons with Tim and we have seen a dramatic uptick in her progress, enthusiasm, and creativity. Tim listens very well and shapes lessons perfectly tailored to our daughter's needs. Thanks Tim!”

— David

“What to say about Tim Brey? He's the best! I've had many piano teachers in my life, and none compare to him. Certain concepts in music that I was having trouble understanding suddenly made sense after studying with him. He is open to working with you on your personal projects and will help you discover new songs that he suggests that focus on topics we cover. On top of that all, he does everything. He helps you explore all possibilities of potential careers in the music industry. He has experience in the entrepreneurial side of music, teaching both privately and in classes, and gigging in Philly. Tim Brey is the teacher that will prepare you for your future in music, and help you find where you want to see yourself as a musician.”

— Isaac