Teaching All
Instruments,
Ages, Styles,
And Levels

Patrick Wood
Piano / Guitar

Patrick St. Clair Wood was born in Houston, TX. He moved to Atlanta at 8 years old. Although he was very interested in all types of music at a very young age, Patrick did not begin taking music instruction until age 13 when he began taking guitar lessons with Dan

Holloway at Draisen Edwards music. Music became a passion for him and he began teaching younger students by 17 years of age.

Meanwhile, he was performing with different groups locally and composing his own music. While music was his love, he was not confident that it would be his life’s work until college. He took an elective music fundamentals class at Georgia Perimeter College and fell in love with the language of music. Having never read music, he immersed himself into the field. Deciding to become a music major, he chose piano as his instrument. Piano came naturally to him. He worked countless hours to prepare himself and was accepted into the music school almost immediately. Portia Hawkins was his first piano instructor. Soon after, he was transferred into Susan Sigmund’s studio.

In 1998, Patrick transferred to Kennesaw State University where he studied with David Watkins. His composition study with Lawrence Sherr produced many pieces, one of which, “Gloria,” won the MTNA state composition competition at the state level and first runner up at the regional level. He was inducted into Pi Kappa Lambda and Golden Key National Honor Society in 1999. Around this time he began teaching piano and guitar at Ponier Music. Upon graduation in 2001, Patrick pursued a career in instrument repairs. Not only did he enjoy playing and creating music, he was fascinated with how the instruments worked. He took a leave of absence from this job to begin his Masters of Music Composition at Louisiana State University, a degree which is still in progress. There he studied with Stephen Beck and Dr. Dinos Constantinedes.

Patrick’s enthusiasm for music carries over into his instruction. His philosophy of teaching is based on a belief that the understanding of the music language is a vital foundation to lifelong appreciation of music. In addition, this basis will assist in empowering students with the knowledge necessary to become successful musicians. Patrick uses the Alfred method books, but enhances them with emphasis on music theory, ear training and composition. Instruction in these elements is essential to encourage improvisation and creative thinking at a young age. Patrick intends to continue teaching students piano and guitar so that others can gain the respect and excitement that he has for the field. Music has become his life’s work and he relishes the opportunity to continue his musical growth as he helps others.

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