Teaching

I offer piano and music instruction focused on personal expression and a solid understanding of music. My name is Galen Huckins and I’m a Jazz pianist and composer originally from Boston. I teach out of my own studio in northeast Portland and at the Artichoke Community Music center. I work with students at their own set pace to develop their voice and creativity alongside their technique and proficiency at the piano. I work with any self-motivated student regardless of age or ability.

The things that we generally focus on are: developing your own musical ear (ear training), music theory, working through any anxieties surrounding the instrument and performance, learning good technique (read: finding the easiest way to do things) and developing your own unique link to your creativity and the music you want to make. People learn in very different ways to reach many different goals, and I work in the direction of each student as opposed to guiding them through a pre-determined course.

I have been a performer and a teacher for many years, and have spent the last few years abroad as faculty at the Jesus Castillo Conservatory in Guatemala teaching ensemble, theory and jazz harmony. I teach in English or Spanish.

I’d be happy to talk and meet with you to see if we would work well together. Feel free to call and ask any question.

Warmly,
- Galen

508 736 4239
galenhuckins@gmail.com

“I have been taking lessons from Galen for about 3 months now, and I couldn’t be happier. I came into this afraid, and unsure of my abilities. Not only has Galen been a great encouragement and has been completely willing to fit his lessons with whatever I need for that week, but he also has a really great way of teaching that helps me to feel at ease. As a singer/songwriter, this has been an incredible experience for me and Galen has met all my challenges with grace. I am extremely thankful the universe had me find him!”

- STARR SHEPPARD-DECKER

Galen is very knowledgeable about what he teaches on the piano. And even teaches in Spanish and a knows a bit about the guitar which has been very helpful with my songwriting and guiar playing.

- JOAQUIN LOPEZ