Clarinet Lessons in Walnut, CA

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Saxophone Flute Clarinet Oboe English Horn Acoustic Guitar

I've appeared in performance with Eyvind Kang, Vinny Golia, Bill Frisell, Steve Vai, and Dr. Nancy Ambrose King (under the direction of Maestro Jeffrey Kahane). As a soloist I've performed Bachs Concerto for Oboe and Violin with violinist Rachel Iba and the CalArts Ensemble, and won second prize in the Riverside Philharmonics 2018 Concerto Competition with my performance of Vaughan Williams Oboe Concerto. I also work as a studio musician, contributing to film and TV scores as well pop albums such as Blonde Redheads 3 OClock and Avey Tares (of Animal Collective) newest release, Eucalyptus. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I like to play audio/recordings for the students when possible, so that the student has an idea of the style, or the piece that we are studying.  This gives them something to reference to, but also gives them an aural aspect in their playing/practice habits. I also model for them constantly, so that they get more visual and aural reinforcement.  I sometimes give them short music concept/vocabulary assignments, such as learning the names of the notes on the staff, counting rhythms, meters, etc; all having to do with music theory and musical concepts that can be directly applied to their practical aspect of playing. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

After studying under some amazing private teachers, I started teaching saxophone and clarinet when I was in High School. Since then, I have taught hundreds of students of all ages and skill levels privately and in conjunction with music institutions. I was the manager of Educator's Music in Twinsburg, Ohio for 3 years. After moving to California, I continued teaching private lessons through Musika and other online services. I have over 20 years of professional performing and teaching experience. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music Keyboard

In my teaching approach, I've discovered that blending classical and contemporary music can be highly effective in engaging students and motivating them to practice. Ensuring that my students enjoy their lessons is paramount because if they're not having fun, I consider it a missed opportunity. My goal is to make music lessons an enjoyable and enriching experience. Encouraging my students to participate in competitions and recitals is a significant part of their musical journey. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I believe each indivdual deserves a teaching method that is as unique as their person. No two people are alike and as such no two individuals should be taught in the same manner. I take the student's musical interest and develop that interest into lesson plans that are both challenging and fun! There is so much music in the world to be explored and this music can be explored at any level! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

During a lesson I tend to organize the lesson so that there are three or four parts. Usually I begin with long tones then we move to articulation. Then I usually incorporate a few small musical studies that cater to style and performance type. During this time it is important for the student to pay attention to the timbre of their performance. Next I cater to the students ability to create their own character with a solo. 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