Flute Lessons in Downey, CA

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

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

With beginners, I focus on developing sound fundamentals. It's important to avoid any bad habits and beginning students are lucky in that they have the opportunity to establish proper technique from the very start. As students progress, I use books such as the Universal Method and Rubanks Duets to learn to read notes and understand rhythms. Duets are an amazing tool as they hold students responsible for their individual part, while still functioning as a supportive and interactive activity. Read More

Instruments: Flute

My educational background includes a Single Subject Teaching Credential, and a Bachelor and Masters Degree in classical and jazz studies.  As an educator, I have produced outcomes of first place awards with superior ratings in instrumental music festival/competitions local and statewide. In 2003 I established Knights of Music Foundation Inc., a non-profit organization to provide music literacy after school to children attending public elementary schools that do not provide instrumental music as part of their curriculum. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Flute Drums Bass Guitar Organ Electric Violin Double Bass

I am very flexible with my teaching methods and put together the best style matching the student's learning strengths. Furthermore, I update and change my methods if I feel the current method is becoming ineffective. I keep my lessons interactive with the student because the time is for the student to retrieve as much information as he/she can regarding their instrument and they can build a stronger week of preparation heading into the next lesson.  Currently my most used methods are teaching via classical, pop & jazz, and Suzuki methods. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I can provide solid foundations for new musicians and detail-oriented polishing for advanced players. For those beginning an instrument with me, I draw from Rubank or Essential Elements methods and customize my lesson plan based on the needs and interests of the student. For students pursuing jazz, I use The Goldman Method, which provides a systematic and easy to follow program that quickly produces results. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Euphonium Oboe Bassoon

I try to have as much fun as possible while still maintaining a high expectiation of performance.  I am, by trade and training, a comedian, so jokes and laughter abound. Most of my students might say I'm not as funny as I think I am, but we still have fun! I am, however a stickler for learning the basics of music theory and correct use of vocabulary. Students won't move on to the next level until I know they have a firm grasp of prior concepts. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Music Keyboard

Aim for 5 to 6 days of practice EVERY week. Consistency is key, even if it is only for 15 minutes! Whatever you do, make sure you practice right after your lesson AND the day following - retention will be 90%! When practicing, aim 3 times in a row flawlessly. For longer and more challenging pieces, be sure you are practicing in small sections. A fun way to do this is through the Penny Game or cards and counters ask me how! Read More