Teaching

Ria Falkner is co-founder of RIVERSIDE MUSIC in Jacksonville Florida, where she and Dr. Peter MacDonald offer private instruction in Voice, Guitar, Piano, Composition and Songwriting, Music Theory, Ear Training and Music Computer Technology.

Ria studied in the Jazz Program at The University of Miami, as well as at Miami-Dade College and at Vancouver Academy of Music. She received her diploma in Music Therapy from Capilano College. Privately, she studied voice with jazz giants Lisanne Lyons, Kevin Mahogany and Canada’s own Shannon Gunn.

Dr. Peter MacDonald received his Doctorate in Composition and Theory from The University of Miami and his Master's in Jazz Guitar from Western Washington University.

Ria and Peter developed a dynamic, personalized method of teaching that meets the needs of each student. All ages and levels (from begginner to advanced) receive the most thorough, individualized instruction to help them become a well-rounded musician and performing artist. Whether you are into Classical, Jazz, R&B, Gospel, Country or Pop, you will learn excellent technique on your voice or instrument, and get a solid foundation in reading and ear training. Their teaching has been highly praised by both students and institutions in Canada and The States. Check out WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING.

Riverside Music also holds inventive workshops such as: "Freeing Your Natural Voice," "Learn the Art of Improvization," "Relax, You CAN Sing" and "Vocal Jazz History." To find out more about information on these intense and fun learning experiences, Contact Us by email or phone for more details.

Happenings

Ria is teaching at the Prelude Chamber Music Camp this week in Jacksonville, Florida. Find out more at

www.preludechambermusic.org

What People Are Saying:

"I have taken lessons with Ria and I can honestly say that she is the very best teacher one could ever ask for. She’s very knowledgeable and very patient. I highly recommend her for music lessons. Ria also comes and performs at our senior’s Adult Day Center. All our clients just love her and always look forward to her interactive music."

Dolores Flemming, MSA NHA Director, Peaches’Na Basket Adult Day Care Center

"Miss Ria is such a cool teacher. Not only have I learned a lot about singing, but I’ve also learned to read music and how to sight-sing. I now feel very confident in my choir, and also singing in my band. She’s the best!"

Kate Harrison, Age 18

"Miss Ria is a very good guitar teacher. She is patient, firm and inspirational. I have been taking guitar lessons from her and Peter for over two years and I now feel accomplished on my instrument."

Taylor Schwang, Age 15

"I am thrilled that I have finally learned to sing the “right” way and I can now also read music. I am no longer afraid of those “high notes”.

Ashley Turner, Age 14

"Our group,The Young at Hearts, all rant and rave about Ria Falkner’s wonderful performances. Her program is interactive, funny and, of course, full of talent. I highly recommend her and BLUEMOON for any special event."

Elly Willis, President, TheYoung at Heart

"I am in charge of my chapter of the famous Red Hatters here in Jacksonville. We have hired Ria to entertain us at our luncheons for Christmas and several other times during the year. She is such a well-rounded entertainer, as well as a great singer. We can’t wait till her next show."

Marny Wills, President La-Tee Dahs, The Red Hatters

"Ria has been an artist with our organization, Body and Soul, The Art of healing, since 2007. She has performed in many venues including, The USO’s salute to The Troops, The Villa Rive Christmas celebrations, The opening of the Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, various special events at Westminster Woods on Julington Creek and St. Vincents, as well as personal room to room musical visits in numerous hospitals and seniors facilities. Her performances are always professional, fun, and a major hit with our audiences, which is the reason that she is often requested for return engagements. Ria and her husband Peter are truly musicians and entertainers of the highest order, and we are honored to count them as members of our organization.

James E. Jenkins, Executive Director/Founder, Body and Soul The Art of Healing, Inc.