Testimonials
"It always feels like our [forty-five minute] lessons are only ten minutes long!"
~Anna, 7 years old
"Ryan is an excellent mentor, regardless of the student's skill level. As a church pianist for 20 years, I was seeking to improve my technique and expand my repertoire. After searching for the right fit, I settled on Ryan, and haven't regretted a moment. He has helped me expand my knowledge and pushed me to the edge of my abilities. Ryan's commitment to his craft is second to none and I highly respect him on a professional and personal level. I wouldn't hesitate for one second to recommend him to anyone."
~Robert Strickland, adult student
"Making music is so much more than playing the notes on the page. Ryan Smith skillfully and patiently helps his students make music. In addition to being an excellent pianist himself, he is able to pass along techniques to others, enabling them to bring to life the notes written on a page. The lovely sound is accompanied by correct hand positioning which keeps a pianist from damaging their hands. Musical phrasing, proper technique, and appropriate music are all presented in a positive atmosphere which enhances the learning experience. We highly recommend Ryan Smith's piano studio."
~Rhonda Conroy, parent
About Mr. Smith
Ryan Smith is a Nationally Certified Teacher of Music, and he has been teaching piano to students of all ages since 1998. He expects students to practice a minimum of five days per week for the same period of time as his/her lesson. Students must show up to lessons prepared with their weekly assignments completed. His teaching style incorporates many ideas to prevent injury to pianists while creating the best musical effect. He participates in auditions, festivals, and competitions based on the student's musical and emotional maturity. All students participate in a spring and winter recital.
Teaching Experience
2009 Columbia International University (visiting piano instructor)
2003-present Private Studio
2005-2007 Furman University Summer Keyboard Institute
2001-2003 Thurman School of Music (Dallas, Texas)
1998-2001 Furman University Pre-college Piano Program
Education
2011 D.M.A. in Piano Performance, The University of South Carolina
2007M.M. in Piano Performance, The University of South Carolina
2004M.A. in Biblical Studies, with high honors, Dallas Theological Seminary
2001B.M. in Piano Performance, cum laude, Furman University
Teachers
Teachers include Ruby Morgan, Sheila Paige, Marina Lomazov, and currently Charles Fugo.
