WHAT STUDENTS SAY ABOUT STRAUB'S TEACHING

"Karl works with your songs and suggests small changes that can make the difference between a good song and a great song."

"Karl reveals the 'dealbreakers' --lots of little mistakes that can ruin an otherwise good song."

"Karl teaches from your musical experience--he finds familiar music that illustrates new techniques."

"Karl knows all the best ingredients to include in great pop music."

"Karl gives you tips and tricks for spicing up your songs."

--songwriting class student

"Karl knows more about music theory and songwriting, and explains it better, than anybody I know. I have watched him captivate rooms full of caffeine-deprived adults--

(at Saturday morning workshops), shy songwriters (comparing the story arcs of, say, John Cheever and Stephen Foster), and elementary-school guitar
students not much bigger than "the size of a carpet sample," (to quote one of his lyrics). He is a superb songwriter, guitarist and singer who, in another era, would have been the king of Tin Pan Alley or the Brill Building (and may yet be). For now, we're incredibly lucky that he's here in DC. He has the knowledge, the sense of humor, and most important, the generosity of spirit, that make a teacher great."

Mary Battiata
Singer-songwriter and bandleader (Little Pink)

"Karl brings the perspective of an experienced craftsman to his songwriting classes. Deconstructing the melodies, rhythms, and harmonic and chordal arrangements of classic popular songs from multiple genres (whether Berlin, Beatles or Bacharach) to illustrate his concepts, Karl provides his students with a variety of principles, “rules” (with, of course, exceptions) and strategies for song composition in a supportive environment. Students are encouraged to present works-in-progress for evaluation, feedback and polishing from Karl and fellow students. While some grounding in fundamental music theory is helpful, Karl will patiently explain the more sophisticated theoretical concepts. Students should also be prepared for thoughtful digressions exploring the historical, social and cultural forces that shaped the songs being studied. Whether you are relatively new to songwriting or even if you are a experienced composer, Karl’s songwriting class will sharpen your skills, give you new approaches to songcraft and enhance your own body of song."

Ed O'Connell

"Karl Straub is a very talented music teacher. He has a broad knowledge base and draws from many methods, always adding his own innovations. He has a unique teaching approach to a wide range of topics, from sight reading to songwriting. Karl manages to make difficult concepts and techniques interesting and accessible to his students. He is unfailingly positive and encouraging and expertly tailors each session to his student's work rate and availability for learning. The result is a happy and growing music student who looks forward to each lesson."

Peggy Higgins-Rhodes, parent

"My lessons with Karl have been simply invaluable. I have learned so much about music, finger style guitar technique, and the craft of songwriting. As a result, I am well on my way to writing and playing songs that I am proud of.

Karl's teaching style is patient and non-judgmental, which enabled me to learn and to feel comfortable when I first began taking lessons. Additionally, he demonstrates a willingness to be flexible and a steadfast, committed professionalism, which I greatly appreciate."

Monique, student