The goal is deeper connection with the Muse, a free flow of energy in one’s creative work. The way often leads through disciplines: harmony, counterpoint, analysis. For each person, the way will be different; having taught at every level — encouraging beginners, offering refinements to seasoned artists — I can meet you where you are and help you move along the path which is yours. A first meeting to get acquainted is free of charge or obligation; please feel free to be in touch!
“...empathic and generous…combines intellectual resources with an inborn instinct for teaching.” (Robert Cuckson)
“…gives his students the rare gift of being fully present…I learned how to listen to my own creativity.” (Katya Chavchavadze Redpath)
“My studies with him were truly illuminating…immense knowledge…invaluable lessons…” (Nailah Nombeko)
“…his patient support has worked wonders…” (Oom Saruda)
“His approach helped me develop into a well-rounded musician.” (Larissa Lakner)
Coaching in Harmony, Counterpoint, Analysis, Interpretation, and Composition.
All coachings are by Zoom, basic rate $50/hour. I offer package discounts. First meeting free of charge!
“Ishmael is a polymath and a gifted teacher. Spending time with him is educational in itself. That said, I was privileged to have known him in my neighborhood in New York City, and I spent some months working with him in private on musical compositions. I thought I was having music lessons, maybe to learn how best to apply music theory or new techniques to my songwriting. What I received was something much greater and much deeper. I learned how to listen to my own creativity. Although Ishmael has vast knowledge in music, he is never impatient or presumptive. Instead, he gives his students the rare gift of being fully present, able to listen and observe and choose just the right way to help them find their own way to understanding.”
(Katya Chavchavadze Redpath, writer and recording artist)
“Over the past year I’ve been studying fugue writing and analysis with Ishmael. My studies with him were truly illuminating for me. He had a way of delving into layers in the music that were not obvious to me. This opened my mind to looking at the score from a new perspective. In addition to his immense knowledge of the musical nuances in the scores that we were studying, he was generous with sharing information. Since studying with him I walked away with invaluable lessons that I will carry with me as a musician.”
(Nailah Nombeko, composer)
“When I was 8 years old, I studied piano, composition, and figured bass with Ishmael Wallace. His approach helped me develop into a well-rounded musician. Ishmael introduced me to a variety of composers, including Mompou, as well as showing me how to listen to familiar music. He talked to me about the styles of different composers and their trademarks, teaching me to analyze their music and apply elements to my own. Story telling and literature were vital parts of the hours I spent in his company.”
(Larissa Lakner, ‘cellist and composer)
I share my music in a free weekly letter:
Ishmael Wallace 