Bellingham Piano Teacher
Conner Helms
Keyboard/Synthesizers and Saxophone
Online & In-Person
Instruments
Piano
Saxophone
Keyboards/Synthesizers
Education
Bachelor of Arts (BA), Western Washington University 2017
Associate of Arts (AA), Whatcom Community College 2014
Services
Jazz and Classical Saxophone (any level)
Jazz Piano (any level)
Classical Piano (1st-4th year)
Music Theory
Jazz Theory and Arranging
Synthesizers and DAW’s (Digital Music Workstations) Training
Bio
Conner Helms began his musical career as a saxophonist at age twelve, but quickly fell in love with the harmonic possibilities of the piano, devoting much of his time during and after school to honing his skills as both a soloist and accompanist. In 2011 he began instructing under the mentorship of pianist Bill MacDounough and upon his graduation from Western Washington University, began teaching full time.
Now with over eighteen years of musical experience, Conner has performed in thousands of concerts ranging from solo piano, choral, small group jazz, big band, and with his own jazz/neo-soul group Triple Mood, which has toured both locally and internationally. Beyond his work in ensembles, Conner’s interest in photography/videography has led him to foster relationships with many PNW artists and musicians, as well as non-profit organizations such as the Jazz Center of Bellingham.
Conner’s teaching approach is focused on meeting the student where they are at. He strives to teach theory, technique and other skills in a way that is approachable and can be put to immediate use. He strongly believes in the concept of “learning through doing” which applies as much in the practice room as out.
Influences
Conner’s most profound influences come from jazz greats such as Chick Corea, Bill Evans, Ahmad Jamal, Sonny Rollins, Hank Mobley and others. Conner also has an interest in cross-overs between genres, finding inspiration in artists such as Snarky Puppy (Jazz/R&B), Hiatus Kaiyote (Neo-Soul), Chris Potter (saxophonist extraordinaire), and Tigran Hamasyan (Jazz/Armenian Folk).
Current Projects
Conner regularly performs at local and regional venues with several bands including the Anissa Quintet, the Sonja Lee Band, the Avalanche Trio, Wonderhouse, Kaeli Earle and Company, the Western Chamber Jazz Ensemble, and in solo concerts. Conner also accompanies a local women’s choir, the Whatcom Sound Jazz Singers.