Aris Antoniades

7 Years Teaching on Lessonface
Classical Composition, Songwriting, Music Theory, Composition, Orchestration, Music History, Orchestral Arranging, Pop Arranging, Classical Orchestration, Film & TV Scoring, Score Preparation, Contemporary Composition, Finale, Songwriting Arrangement, Songwriting Form, College Audition Prep, Music Directing
Lesson Fees
$60.00 / 45 Minutes
Promotions Available
Book 5+ lessons for 5% off

About

I’m a professional composer, arranger, and orchestrator from Cyprus, specializing in concert music, theater, and crossover music. My work has been performed by major ensembles, including the National Radio Symphony Orchestra of Greece (ERT), and I’ve collaborated with internationally renowned artists across multiple genres.

I regularly serve as music director and head arranger/orchestrator for leading Greek and International artists, including Alkistis Protopsalti (28-time gold & platinum album vocalist, IFPI Greece), George Hatzinassios, Stefanos Korkolis, Michalis Hatzigiannis, George Perris, X-Factor (Greece) judges George Theofanous and Mariza Rizou, and West End star Earl Carpenter (Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables). My original Afro-Cuban jazz arrangement of Lalo Schifrin’s Mission Impossible Theme was performed at Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola (Jazz at Lincoln Center) by nine-time Grammy nominee Bobby Sanabria, in a concert attended by the legendary late conga master Cándido Camero.

A Fulbright scholar, I hold B.M. and M.M. degrees in Composition from the Manhattan School of Music, where I received the Provost’s Award for Academic Excellence, and I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Education at Saint Louis University. In addition to composing and arranging, I serve as the Artistic & Music Director of the TrakArt Pops Orchestra in Cyprus and host the weekly radio show Musical Compass on CyBC Radio 4.

What I Offer as a Teacher

I teach Composition, Orchestration, Arranging, Film Scoring, Music History, and Music Theory offering personalized lessons tailored to each student’s goals and interests. My approach focuses on learning through creation—developing your unique musical voice while drawing from the techniques of great composers. Whether you’re preparing for university applications, professional work, or personal development, I can help you refine your craft and gain real-world insights into the music industry.

Let’s take your music to the next level. Book a lesson today!

 

Teaching Style

I specialize in intermediate and advanced music instruction, working with aspiring composers, conservatory students, and professionals looking to refine their craft. I offer lessons in composition, arranging, orchestration, music theory, and music history, tailored to each student’s goals and skill level.

That said, I welcome students of all backgrounds and experience levels. Whether you’re a hobbyist wanting to transform your ideas into a piece of music, a student preparing for conservatory auditions or university coursework, or a professional seeking new perspectives on composition and orchestration, I’m here to guide you.

My teaching approach integrates music theory, history, and musicianship, ensuring students not only develop technical proficiency but also a deep understanding of musical context and artistry. For composition students, my goal is to help them discover and refine their own voice while drawing inspiration from the great masters of the past. Together, we explore the key elements that unlock the magic in a work of art—bridging technique with creativity in a way that feels both structured and deeply personal.

If you’re ready to take your music to the next level, let’s get started! 🎶

Curriculum

My teaching method is highly personalized—I adapt lessons to each student’s goals, skill level, and musical interests. Whether working on composition, orchestration, arranging, history or theory, I emphasize learning through creation, guiding students to apply theoretical concepts in their own music. Lessons incorporate analysis of great works, technical exercises, and hands-on projects, helping students develop both technical fluency and artistic expression.

I also introduce students to essential scores, recordings, and texts based on their area of study. Some recommended books include:

Composition & Orchestration:

• The Study of Orchestration – Samuel Adler

Orchestration - Cecil Forsith

Music Theory & History:

• Harmonic Practice in Tonal Music – Robert Gauldin

A History of Western Music - Burckholder, J. Peter, Grout, and Palisca

Beyond books, I encourage students to study scores, listen critically, and experiment with different compositional techniques. Every lesson is designed to deepen musical understanding while fostering creative individuality.

Credentials & Affiliations

I hold B.M. and M.M. degrees in Composition from the Manhattan School of Music, where I received the Provost’s Award for Academic Excellence, and I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Education at Saint Louis University

In addition to my academic background, I serve as the Artistic & Music Director of the TrakArt Pops Orchestra, where I collaborate with internationally acclaimed artists. I am also the host and producer of the weekly radio show Musical Compass on CyBC Radio 4 (RIK Classic).

My professional collaborations include work with nine-time Grammy nominee Bobby Sanabria, platinum-selling vocalist Alkistis Protopsalti, the National Radio Symphony Orchestra of Greece (ERT), Broadway music director Andrew Gerle, West End star Earl Carpenter, and many others. My compositions and arrangements have been performed by orchestras, big bands, and chamber ensembles worldwide.

I am an active member of various professional music organizations and frequently participate in masterclasses, guest lectures, and international music festivals, continuously engaging with the global music community.