Ryan Tedder

Hello! I'm Ryan W. Tedder, originally from Tulsa, OK, and now based in Chicago, IL, where I've lived for over a decade. My musical journey began at a young age, inspired by my uncle, a Grammy-winning classical bassoonist. He gifted me a clarinet, sparking my lifelong passion for music. From there on, my fascination with sounds led me to experiment with nearly all available instruments throughout my life. I'm thankful that I had such a supportive school music program!

I specialize in teaching guitar, piano, saxophone, flute, music theory, and the recording arts. From 2008 to 2012 at the Oklahoma Music Academy, I taught over 25 students weekly in woodwinds, piano, and guitar, and also led a group rock band class. Since relocating to Chicago, I have continued teaching privately and recently conducted a seminar with Songfinch, helping recording artists improve their skills with Logic Pro.

I hold a degree in music performance from The University of Tulsa, where I graduated in 2008. Over my 20+ years of playing and teaching music professionally, I’ve had the privilege of teaching students of all ages, guided by the philosophy that music is a powerful connector. Inspired by Rick Rubin's writings on creativity, I believe that the journey of learning music is as much about personal growth and connection as it is about technical skill.

My career highlights include receiving two Grammy nominations and recording tracks with artists like Jill Scott, Beyoncé, and Mariah Carey among others.

I enjoy holding discussions about musical concepts and demonstrating techniques during lessons. I've been lucky enough to work with so many legendary musicians, from whom I've absorbed a wealth of musical philosophy. I believe that real musical growth takes place outside of the lesson environment during personal practice sessions, where the student has time to develop a relationship with their instrument. My goal will always be to inspire rather than admonish, to encourage rather than discipline, and to follow the interests of the student.

I will always aim to help students accomplish personal goals, such as earning first chair in band class or playing that awesome guitar solo; however, I do firmly believe that music is not a competition. Every student will grow at their own rate and my goal will always be to find what makes someone musically "tick" and to encourage and help those aspects bloom.

Even if you don't have direct musical goals, don't worry! We can always explore music together and go at whatever pace is comfortable.