Branden Ma

Born in Wayland Massachusetts, Branden Ma began playing piano at the age of 5. He comes from a musical family well versed in classical music studies. Early on in childhood, Branden began his studies at the New England Conservatory Prep School in Boston. He would receive thorough training in classical piano, performance, pedagogy, and theory. Upon graduating high school, he studied music and computer science at St. Olaf College with a music scholarship. At St. Olaf, he became a critical part of the music scene as he started to train his composition and improvisation skills. After college, Branden began performing in Chicago and Minneapolis with various jazz and rock groups. During this time, he worked with GRAMMY award winner Blaise Barton at Joyride Studios and performed with a variety of groups in both cities.
Branden draws from a wide array of musical influences ranging from classical composers to more modern styles such as jazz, pop, and blues. He teaches all styles and incorporates theory, note reading, improvisation, and ear training into his lessons. Through his lessons, Branden aims to provide meaningful tools and memories that will foster a lifelong interest in music. In his free time outside of music, Branden can be found cooking, playing games with friends, and taking strolls around the lakes.
PIANO | SONGWRITING & COMPOSITION
Age range
Specialties
Piano, Songwriting, and Composition: up to late intermediate
Styles: Specialize in Classical, Improv, Jazz, also blues and pop
Geographic areas served
Branden is available for in home lessons in a 10 mile radius of Minneapolis and at the Opus studios in Plymouth, St. Louis Park, and Robbinsdale.
Rates
- $38 / half hour lesson
- $57 / 45-minute lesson
- $70 / 60-minute lesson
- $8 more per in home lesson
Cancellation Policy
Lessons cancelled within 24 hours will be considered paid with no makeup guaranteed. Certain exceptions may be made at the discretion of the instructor.
Teaching Philosophy
Music has been a constant source of joy in Branden’s life, and he hopes to engage his students by sharing this joy. Studying/learning music is a lifelong process, and Branden believes experiencing the universal joy of music firsthand is key to a deep level of engagement.