One of the best ways to understand a teaching framework is to actually see it in action. Today, I’m sharing part of a real online lesson with my student Phoenix, where we dive into four-chord composing, theory integration, and creative exploration. You’ll hear how simple chord progressions can open the door to teaching cadences, harmony, listening skills, and creativity all at the same time.

  • Tim shares a real online lesson excerpt with his student Phoenix from California.
  • Four-chord composing is introduced as a practical framework for teaching theory through creativity.
  • Phoenix creates original chord progressions using the circle of fifths.
  • Tim demonstrates how pop chord progressions reinforce theoretical concepts naturally.
  • Cadences are taught through active music-making instead of worksheets or drills.
  • The lesson explores perfect and plagal cadences within real chord progressions.
  • Tim explains how integrated music teaching connects theory directly to playing.
  • Phoenix experiments with emotional colors and textures in different chord sequences.
  • Common tones are highlighted to help students hear harmonic connections.
  • Tim encourages creative exploration and experimentation rather than perfection.
  • Online teaching tools like multiple camera views and Classroom Maestro support the lesson.
  • Phoenix is encouraged to continue composing and experimenting between lessons.


Links Mentioned


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