Cello Lessons in New Almaden, CA

Instruments: Cello

For beginning students, I usually begin heavily with physical technique, music theory exercises, and scales. From there, I use Rick Mooney's Position Pieces as well as solo repertoire from the Suzuki books to develop musicality and efficiency. The solo works chosen are designed to work toward the interests and goals of the students (competitions and/or genre interests). For advanced or adult students, I treat our lessons more broadly, integrating cello playing, music history, and an exploration of the genre as a whole to establish passion and long-term goals. Read More

Instruments: Cello

My teaching style is open book. What I find motivates a student is what they wish to learn and music they want to play. The basic foundation is one of the key elements to better musicality but also the study of listening and understanding music drives what we consider the originality of each musician. I believe that as much as physical practice drives the growth of a student, I want to build motivation for the student to pursue greater things with music and allow it to translate to other parts of his/her life as it has for myself. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I believe a student's progress depends on how motivated they feel during practices, so I work with students while putting emphasis on patience and encouragement. As a usual protocol for beginning students, I start with one active scale and an easy Suzuki solo piece (ex. Twinkle Twinkle Little Star), slowly introducing simple etudes when progress is noted. I usually demonstrate a piece before assigning it to the students for homework so that they have a better idea of what the piece should sound like in terms of both tempo and how the notes should be carried. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Euphonium Music

I believe that the secret to becoming a talented musician is to love making music. I design my lessons around the needs and goals of the students, striving to have fun along the way. I understand and want my students to realize that making mistakes is a huge part of how we learn. My students and I have fun working through the challenges they face as they strive to become better every day. Read More

Instruments: Cello

My favorite time in any lesson is the "ah ha" moment. Its that moment when a student realizes a concept that they previously struggled with. For me, that is the goal of teaching. For younger students it can be the first time playing twinkle twinkle alone. For older students it could be figuring out how to do a spiccato bow stroke. Its different every time, but it is important to recognize those accomplishments and use them as stepping stones to the next big achievement. Read More