Michalis Kailis

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Guitar, Classical Orchestration, Composition, Counterpoint, Contemporary Composition, Classical Composition, Sibelius, Songwriting, Music Theory
Lesson Fees
$25.00 / 30 Minutes
Promotions Available
Book 10+ lessons for 10% off

About

Hello! My name is Michalis Kailis, and I’m a professional composer, music educator and guitarist with over 3 years of teaching experience. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Classical Composition and a Master of Music (M.Mus.) with a focus on composition. I’ve also completed a Modern Guitar Recital with Distinction, and I have in-depth training in harmony, music theory, counterpoint, and improvisation.

I am a fluent speaker of Greek (native), English, and German (B2), and I enjoy working with students from all backgrounds and cultures.

Teaching Style

My teaching style is student-centered, supportive, and adaptable. I believe that each student learns differently, so I tailor my lessons based on the individual’s age, experience level, and musical interests.

Whether we’re working on guitar technique, composition, or music theory, I focus on helping students understand the why behind the music — not just memorizing patterns. I balance technical skill-building with creative exploration, so lessons are both educational and inspiring.

I use clear explanations, practical examples, and interactive exercises to keep students engaged. For guitar lessons, I emphasize proper posture, tone, and rhythm while exploring songs that match the student’s goals — from classical to pop, rock, or Greek music.

For theory and composition students, I guide you through harmony, counterpoint, orchestration, and creative development in a structured but approachable way.

Above all, I aim to help students become confident, independent musicians who enjoy the process of learning and creating.

Curriculum

My teaching method is adaptive and structured, balancing classical foundations with a modern, creative approach. I tailor each lesson to the student’s level, goals, and learning style — whether they aim to play music, understand theory, pass exams, or compose their own works.

🎸 For Guitar Students

I focus on:

  • Sound technique and posture

  • Rhythm, tone, and dynamics

  • Music reading and ear training

  • Expression and stylistic interpretation

  • Repertoire selection based on student interests (classical, pop, rock, folk, Greek music, etc.)

Recommended texts:

  • Solo Guitar Playing by Frederick Noad

  • Hal Leonard Guitar Method

  • Carcassi and Sor Studies

  • Custom exercises, tabs, and scores tailored to each student

🎼 For Music Theory, Harmony & Composition Students

My method combines structured theory with creativity and real-world musical examples. I cover:

  • Harmony (tonal and modal), counterpoint, and form

  • Analysis of classical and modern repertoire

  • Orchestration and arranging

  • Improvisation and original composition tasks

Recommended texts:

  • Study of Orchestrationby Samuel Adler

  • Tonal Harmony by Kostka & Payne

  • Schoenberg – Fundamentals of Musical Composition

  • Custom worksheets, examples, and PDF resources

🎓 IGCSE Music Preparation (Cambridge / Edexcel)

For students preparing for IGCSE Music, I offer full guidance in:

  • Set works analysis and listening techniques

  • Music theory (notation, harmony, terms)

  • Composition coaching and structure

  • Performance preparation (solo and ensemble)

    Support materials:

  • Official IGCSE syllabus resources

  • Annotated listening guides and past papers

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  • Personalized composition feedback

  • Repertoire coaching for the performance exam

    All lesson materials are shared digitally, and I offer ongoing support between lessons, including recordings, written feedback, and tailored exercises to support independent practice.

 

Credentials & Affiliations

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Classical Music Composition – Codarts University for the Arts (Rotterdam, the Netherlands)

  • Master of Music (with emphasis in Composition) – Codarts University for the Arts (Rotterdam, the Netherlands)

  • Modern Guitar Recital Diploma with Distinction – Trinity College of London

  • Certified in Advanced Harmony and Music Theory

  • Over 3 years of experience teaching guitar, music theory, harmony, and composition to students of all ages

  • Experienced performer – solo guitar/vocal performances in hotels, restaurants, and cultural events across Cyprus

  • Preparation for international music exams (ABRSM, Trinity, IGCSE)

  • Fluent in Greek, English, and German (B2)