Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on November 2011
What brought you to Japan and how long have you been here?
I came over on the JET Program in 1991, and except for two years back in the US for grad school, I’ve been here the whole time. Theta Music Technologies was established here in Tokyo in 2003. While in grad school, I developed an online music notation program that later evolved into the first Theta Music product.
What is Theta Music Trainer?
Theta Music Trainer is a set of online games that develop and sharpen your ear for music. Beginners learn to distinguish between different pitches, volumes and instrument sounds. Experienced players can use the games to better understand what is going on musically when they hear a song. They get better at recognizing chords, melodies and rhythm patterns. They also become sharper at hearing subtle differences in sound caused by effects, equalizers and room acoustics.
What sets it apart from other music training lessons or even real teachers?
Our games have a strong focus on ear training and music theory—they train you to make sense of what you are hearing. This kind of training is essential for all musicians, regardless of genre or instrument. Our approach is meant to inject some fun into an otherwise tedious process. Music teachers can use Theta Music Trainer for introducing even beginner students to ear training and music theory, which frees up lesson time to focus on instrument technique and musical expression.
Can Theta Music Trainer provide hope for the “tone deaf”?
Absolutely. True “tone deafness” is extremely rare. In most cases, these people simply haven’t developed the basic music skills needed to sing in tune. Children raised in rich musical environments tend to pick these skills up naturally, much like their native language. It takes a bit more effort to develop the skills as an adult, but it’s definitely possible. Theta Music Trainer helps by making the process more enjoyable.
Are your customers Japanese or foreign?
They are about 70% foreign and 30% Japanese. About half of our foreign customers are music teachers who use the games in their private studios or classrooms.
What is your background in music?
I began playing guitar when I was 11, and have always been in some kind of a band. Growing up in Texas, I was exposed to a wide variety of musical styles and genres. I made pretty quick progress on the guitar, but eventually got to a point where I felt completely stuck musically. I then took up ear training and music theory study, and it just opened up a whole new world for me. Ever since then, I’ve been looking for simpler and better ways to teach these concepts.
Do you play or perform live music in Tokyo? If so, where can readers see you?
Yes, I play in a roots rock band called Moonshots, and we’ve been performing at parties and live houses in Tokyo for over 12 years now. The best place to catch the band live is at Crocodile in Harajuku.
Where is your favorite place to see live music in Tokyo?
I especially like Crocodile and another place in Akasaka called Crawfish. Both of these live venues consistently provide a nice mix of genres, talented performers, excellent sound systems, and great food and drink.
