Cello Lessons in Bristol, CA

Instruments: Cello

I've found that keeping an open mind about methods is really helpful when dealing with beginning students, young and old. I've tought from various method series including Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, Emily Wright's A Modern Cellist's Manual, Muller Rusch, and more. While I'm not a certifited Suzuki instructor, I do teach from the Suzuki method when students or parents request it. What's important is matching the right method to the right student which I tend to determine at our initial lesson. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Flute Drums Bass Guitar Organ Electric Violin Double Bass

I have an interactive yet focused style of teaching. I can(but don't recommend) to use the Suzuki method. I feel that all aspects related to the instruments weigh much importance in teaching the student. However, with the Suzuki method, the student's primary focus is to learn pieces rapidly and climb the level of difficulty as fast as possible. This prevents him/her to fully understand and analyze the piece and lesson and it can also turn the student away from pursuing the instrument further.  Read More

Instruments: Cello

For beginning students, I like to use the Suzuki Cello School books, approximately up to book 6. Then, I move to solo repertoire that is appropriate for the student and their musical goals. I like to use the Ivan Galamian Scale System for Violoncello. I also use the Yampolsky Violoncello technique book. For more technique exercises, I use the Feuillard Daily Exercises and assign exercises based on where the student needs improvement. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Harp Accordion Harmonica Lap Steel Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Lute Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Shakuhachi Oboe Bassoon English Horn Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Most recently Derek was the lead trombonist of the 2018 Disneyland All-American College Band. He has recently performed with Wayne Bergeron, Gordon Goodwin, Dave Holland, Randy Brecker, Dave Liebman, Jimmy Heath, Shaun Martin, Christian Jacob, John Beasley, Troy Roberts, Frank Greene, Brian Lynch, Jeff Jarvis, Steve Houghton, Jiggs Whigham, Sal Lozano, and John Clayton. Derek has had recent performances at Dizzys Club Coca-Cola, the Smithsonian Institute, and the New World Symphony. Read More

Instruments: Cello

Each week at the end of their lesson, my students and I will sit down without the cello and discuss everything that they learned and everything that they need to work on for their next lesson. Together, we set small realistic goals and acknowledge accompishments with small rewards in order to nurture and embolden each student. I always encourage students to enter competitions, festivals, and other programs, as setting larger end goals can be the ultimate motivators! Read More

Instruments: Cello Music

Seeing my students enjoy and grow in their passion for music is the most rewarding part in my teaching. I can be a tiger teacher but at the same time be very patient, flexible, supporting, and open to listen to my students. I value communication with my students during every lesson, making sure if they are following along. I consistently ask questions to my students about how they feel, their opinions, or what they’re struggling with. Read More

Instruments: Cello

As a music educator, my teaching methods are designed to ignite and nurture a deep passion for music in all its diverse forms. I firmly believe in the power of integrating students' personal musical interests with classical training to create a well-rounded and enjoyable learning experience. My approach is rooted in customization. I understand that each student has unique tastes and musical preferences, and I use this as a foundation for their musical journey. Read More