Clarinet Lessons in Port Costa, CA

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I'm a passionate teacher that expects the best from his students. But at the same time I want my students to enjoy the music they are creating. In 2008, I graduated from the University of Illinois with a BM in Jazz Performance/Saxophone Performance. I have been fortunate to travel and play in 105 countries all over the world playing at many jazz festivals and concert halls. While traveling I was also asked to speak at schools as well as many top Universities in France, England, China, and the Philippines. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet

The most rewarding thing for me in teaching is learning how to create with my student. Finding the best tools for growth with the student and accessing them is the crucial component to how I teach. Gaining trust, confidence, and joy in lessons produces the highest and most sustainable growth and development of the technique, sound, and musicality of the growing musician. 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 Saxophone Clarinet

Especially for young people, maintaining interest and ensuring that they continue to see the value of their musical education is essential. I remember a very frank conversation with my mother when at 13 I wanted to give up music to play football, and I blame that on the style of teaching I was receiving. Whilst there is stuff not to like about instrumental learning - for some it's scales, for me it was sight reading - the satisfaction comes from masterng these challenges, and if we can keep these short and long term goals relevant to the student, getting the practice hours done may be a litte easier on everyone! Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Piccolo Music

I do my best to foster a warm and safe environment with all of my students. In all of my first lessons, I establish rules that explain that we must treat our lesson space, our instruments, and each other with respect. I cater each lesson to each student; every person is different, therefore every lesson must be different. During each lesson, we set realistic yet challenging goals for the next upcoming lessons. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginners the first sound is the most important basic thing for a horn player (woodwind or brass). For children I use easy melodies they remember. This is helpful so they won'tget bored or tired easily. There are important transitional mechanisms in the clarinet especially that have to be overcome before starting with the scales studies. The books I use depend on the interest of the students. I have books for JAZZ, BRAZILIAN MUSIC, or CLASSICAL MUSIC (from Concert Solos to Opera overtures). Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My teaching experience goes back to 1985 when I got my Masters of Music in Performance and Literature at the Eastman School of Music. As soon as I got back to California I started teaching privately. I have also been on the faculty of the Notre Dame college in Belmont, Santa Clara University and the Community School of Music and Arts in Mountain View. I also coach in the middle schools and high schools nearby. Read More