Clarinet Lessons in Lafayette, CA

Instruments: Piano Clarinet

Playing piano is my greatest reward in life, being able to bring a smile to a face of any age. After graduating from Cal Poly with a concentration in performance and theory, I was musical director of The Great American Melodrama and Vaudeville theater. I was able to broaden my horizons performing, teaching, composing and arranging all different styles of music.and can even play piano upside down now! I was also music director of a local Christian church which has enabled me to become proficient in sacred/praise music as well. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My style of teaching also varies greatly with each individual. Some students have specific music from school or from outside music groups that they want to learn and also need to learn the skills to be able to play that particular music. Other students come with a desire just to improve their current abilities, and we find ways to do that by choosing inspiring music together. Sometimes playing duets is a great way to do that, and when its not possible to play together in real time I make recordings that the student can enjoy playing with. Read More

Instruments: Piano Clarinet

My greastest reward is seeing each student develop a greater love of music as they progress and come to be able to express their personal feelings through music. It is important that each student progress at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals at each lesson. By acknowledging their accomplishments this helps build a desire to progress and makes students eager to learn more. By helping them learn how to use the hand, wrist, arm and upper torso, they learn tone control and musical phrasing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Viola Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I'm an experienced and caring instructor who loves to see students empowered in their own creativity and excellence. I received my Bachelor's in Music Education from Ithaca College in 1988. I have recorded and released three projects so far that have received radio play internationally and been on the charts on college public radio. My travels performing music in the U.S. and beyond have enriched my life immeasurably and I love sharing the spark of imagination with my students. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I use a two pronged approach to my lessons. I start with fundamentals, especially focusing on two areas: sound and counting. 1.) Sound: Over the last 34 years, I've found that the student who does not sound good - even though he or she can play all notes and rhythms - will not be pleasing to anyone who hears them play. What good is it if he can play all rhythms and notes and sound bad? Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Piccolo

I think the best way to teach is to start with what my students are interested in and embed music concepts and theory throughout our lessons.  Additionally, I have a library of method books, lesson plans, literature, and curricula that I like to follow. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I've been teaching private lessons in music since I was in high school and have always enjoyed sharing and mentoring younger students and professionals whenever my guidance or council has been sought. I've crossed pollinated my teaching methods over the years with my experiences working in a variety of environments from Universities, Opera Houses, Concert Venues, Theatres, and dojos. I like to emphasize the consistency of practice and finding the enjoyment in each session of practice and play. Read More