KSOM Teacher Spotlight - Ryder Smith - Piano Teacher with a Jazz Influence in Gallatin TN
- Lex Bogdanski
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Meet Ryder Smith, Piano Teacher at Keen School of Music in Gallatin TN.
Ryder Smith is a piano instructor at Keen School of Music and an alumnus of Middle Tennessee State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in music composition with a focus in jazz piano. With a strong foundation in both classical and contemporary styles, Ryder brings a thoughtful, student-centered approach to every lesson. He is a seasoned piano player who is fond of music by Emerson, Yes, Thelonious Monk, Lake and Palmer, Bach, and Gentle Giant. Ryder teaches piano to students of all ages across all skill levels.
Lex sat down with Ryder to learn more about his background, teaching philosophy, and what students can expect in his piano lessons.
What do you do in your free time?
Ryder: I practice and write piano and trio compositions most of the time, but I also enjoy visiting Nashville and playing video games. I really like the Elder Scrolls games, Terraria, and Minecraft. I've actually transcribed a few of the songs from the Age of Empires 2 soundtrack. Honestly though, my favorite soundtrack probably has to be the Undertale soundtrack.
When did you realize you wanted to pursue a music career as a piano teacher?
Ryder: My senior year of high school, I had a very good music teacher who taught most of the music courses at my school. At that time, I was trying to do more musically, so I took almost every one of his classes. He showed me that a career can be possible, and then I began to learn more and build a passion for what I do. After being so inspired by my past teachers, I wanted to pass down the knowledge that I have to inspire other musicians just like they did for me.
What is the approach you take to teach different students?
Ryder: I try to get a profile of what the student is looking to learn; for me, what my student is looking to get out of a lesson matters the most. Different styles of piano call for different techniques, and I want to make sure each student leaves happy, knowing more than what they came in with.
Besides skill, what is something that you want your students to take from your lessons?
Ryder: I want my students to know that if they work hard, they will achieve something, and not to seem discouraged when something may have a tricky start. It’s okay to start small to build up to something bigger.
What is one piece of advice that you give to your students about performing?
Ryder: Being prepared is everything. One of the most important things I learned when it comes to preparing a performance is playing something you may struggle with slowly, and gradually increasing the speed until you can play it as fast as you have to. You can’t get caught up in your mistakes when performing. Everybody makes them, and you’re typically the only one to notice it. Staying positive and practicing is key.
What is your go-to warm-up routine?
Ryder: Every day, I pick a piece to sightread. I have a book full of Bach pieces that I sightread out of. I also practice scales and Hanon exercises that aim for better technique and dexterity.
What brought you to the Keen School of Music?
Ryder: I live nearby and was looking at places to teach when I found Keen. There are plenty of music schools in the area, but the way KK and Aaron both care about all of their staff and students, along with how kind and attentive they are, really drew me in.
Thank you to Ryder for taking the time to sit down with Lex to share more about his approach to teaching and to music. If Ryder's story and teaching style resonated with you, Visit our website at www.keenschoolofmusic.com or call 615-682-4939 to learn more and get started!
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