Cello Lessons in Pacoima, CA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Mandolin Acoustic Guitar

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Cello Bass Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Acoustic Guitar

For young children I usually use the Suzuki method books for song selection and through those we can focus on the basic fundamentals of positioning and technical development. It is easy to see what needs to be addressed through those first few songs and we can go from there. For older children and adults we can select from a wider variety with input from the student and we can work on whatever technical issues arise based on the level of the student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Fiddle French Horn Piccolo Oboe

For stringed instruments, I uses the Suzuki method for teaching the basic repertory of the instruments. This method is an ear training method in which the student plays by ear. It starts out very simple so students of all ages can learn and progress very quickly. For learning to read music I use one of the method books like "A Tune a day" or Strictly Strings which teach the fundamentals of read music and music theory. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I like to create goals with the student, not just for them. In other words, I make sure the student's opinion is always taken in consideration to ensure that every goal set is within reason and that the student genuinely thinks it is realistic for them. I encourage students to keep a practice journal where they write down the amount of time they practiced, what scale and technique exercise they practiced, and the pieces they practiced. Read More

Instruments: Cello

My approach is holistic, focusing on the emotional and psychological aspects of music as much as the technical. One of the key aspects of my teaching style is the use of healthy teaching mechanisms, drawing inspiration from therapeutic practices. I understand that every student is unique, with their own strengths, challenges, and goals. Therefore, I strive to create a safe and nurturing learning environment where students feel empowered and enriched, rather than overwhelmed. Read More

Instruments: Cello

Believing in the value of constructive criticism, I actively involve students in the evaluation process. I prompt them to reflect on their playing, encouraging them to identify aspects they appreciate and areas for enhancement. Embracing an open-door policy, I reassure students that no question is too trivial, creating an atmosphere that promotes curiosity and active participation. In addition to teaching instrumental proficiency, I emphasize the importance of effective practice techniques. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello

I hold various Principal 'cello positions, co-founded the Polish Music Reference Center at USC with Wanda Wilk, in the 1980's; co-founded Symphony 47 with Floyd Clark and had my New American Quartet for over 18 years, which also toured England, in 1997. I performed many overseas concerts; was Yo Yo Ma's pre-concert lecturer at the Wadsworth in 1994; coached Samuel L. Jackson for his movie role as a 'cello playing cop in 2000, and performed with Herbie Hancock in a World Peace concert in 2008, with my quartet. Read More