Ryan – French Horn

My teaching philosophy ultimately stems from spreading the joy of music making. My primary goal is to foster a passion and appreciation for this beautiful art in each and every one of my students. I find so much joy in so many diverse genres of music, and I am confident in my ability to help my students find that joy for themselves. So many musicians, both young and old, are bogged down by the monotony of practicing technique and fundamentals, but I believe that working on these skills can be both entertaining and rewarding if done right.

My lessons will be centred around cultivating efficient practice techniques in three ways:

PHYSICALLY:

– Maintaining correct posture, breathing (for horn and voice), and relaxation while playing to maximize sound production and resonance, while minimizing effort.

MENTALLY:

– 30 minutes of focused practice can accomplish more than 3 hours of unfocused practice. More hours does not equal more progress! It is the QUALITY of the work we do that will bring the best results and allow us to achieve our goals. Together we will strive to eliminate those extra mindless hours of practice so you can get back to all those other things you love.

EMOTIONALLY:

– When we approach the instrument, we want to make sure that we are in a good headspace and have goals we are excited to achieve. Practicing is important, but forcing ourselves creates an unhealthy relationship with the instrument and restricts our learning. In our lessons we will work together to find creative and fun ways to get around those pesky motivational road blocks! Let’s find the music you love most and work towards playing the way you want.

First and foremost, my lessons are designed so that YOU get the results and experience that you’re looking for. I will tailor each lesson plan specifically to each student to suit their needs. Whether you’re training to be one of the world’s greatest performers, and need a solid basis of fundamentals to build on as you improve, or you’re just looking to play your favourite tunes simply for the joy of it, together we will make your goals a reality and help you be the best musician you can be. I look forward to working with you!

Education:

Artist Diploma in Horn Performance – The Glenn Gould School (2018-2020)

Bachelor’s Degree in Horn Performance – University of Toronto (2013-2015)/McGill University (2015-2017)

Ryan Garbett has performed nationwide on Canada’s most revered stages and has collaborated professionally with many high calibre ensembles including the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the Canadian Opera Company, the McGill Chamber Orchestra, the Kingston Symphony Orchestra, and the Amici Chamber ensemble. He is a three-time alumnus of the National Youth Orchestra of Canada (’14, ’15, ’19) and was a recipient of their award of excellence in 2019. In September of 2019, Mr. Garbett was accepted into the Exultate Chamber Choir, First Prize winner of the 2019 Canadian Amateur Choir Competition in the Mixed-Voice Adult Chamber Choir Category.

Ryan has been active in Toronto’s underground music scene since 2010, singing and playing electric bass in various bands around the city. He has since become highly interested in improvisation and has been playing horn in Steinwall since 2018, a 10-piece funk outfit formerly known as Funny Funk. Steinwall is preparing to release their debut full-length album in the coming year.

30 minutes: $35.00

45 minutes: $45.00

60 minutes:  $50.00

** Currently only offering online lessons during the pandemic **

Once pandemic has passed willing to offer at home lessons in the Toronto neighbourhoods of East end, West End and Downtown.

$5 travel surchare per At-Home lesson.

Online Lessons available.