Cello Lessons in Westchester, CA

Instruments: Cello

For beginning students I like to begin with a combination of Hal Leonard's Essential Elements and Suzuki Method books. I find Essential Elements to be useful for learning the fundamentals of playing the instrument and music theory. However, Suzuki offers the ability for students to quickly play solo repertoire. I also incorporate learning and understanding scales for the purpose of learning fingering patterns and intonation. As students progress, I also find Rick Monney's Positions Pieces extremely valuable. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet 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: Piano Cello

I like to incorporate 4 hands playing of fun pieces as a diversion from the solo playing plus I encourage my students to accompany me on the piano in a few 'cello pieces so that they acquire a good sense of ensemble playing. I have "musical get-togethers" where everyone plays for their family friends and other students and I will sometimes bring in a professional colleague where we will treat the students to a performance so they can see what happens when one becomes a "pro" - it is my way of saying, "good job everyone"! Read More

Instruments: Cello

My teaching experience begain in 2008 when I inherited my former instructor's Los Angeles studio. I've tought consistently sincen then and have found that no matter what their age or music experience is, everyone can learn to play and enjoy an instrument. The fundamentals of playing cello are the same for everyone, no matter when or where or how you start. Establishing realistic expectations and developing consistent practice habits to support them are essential to success. 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

Derek is most known for his association with the John Daversa Big Band. Derek has had the pleasure of meeting and performing with many of his musical heroes. He has recorded live and studio albums with Arturo Sandoval, Jon Faddis, John Fedchock, James Morrison, Greg Gisbert, Roger Ingram, Paul Stephens, Scott Englebright, Donny Dyess, the Tastee Bros, Bernard Wright, Gene Coye, Steve Reid, Kate Reid, Melvin Butler, Ed Calle, Richard Todd, Mike Brignola, Alex Norris, Dante Luciani, John Hart, Martin Bejerano, Chuck Bergeron, Rick Margitza, and appears on the Gary Lindsay album "Are We Still Dreaming" with the South Florida Jazz Orchestra. Read More