Flute Lessons in Pasadena, CA

Instruments: Flute Music

As a music instructor, it is important for me to create a safe learning space for the students, where they are not afraid to fail. Understand that it is okay to make mistakes and trying our best is the most important attitude towards success. For this, it is viral to always set realistic goals based on skills, timeframe and level of motivation to pave the road for success. As a flute player, I understand the challenges that comes with learning the instrument. 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

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Ever since I was a kid, I had a passion for mentoring and tutoring. Nothing makes me feel as fulfilled as a long day of teaching, having fun with my students and helping them make progress both in their musical studies and development as people. As a performer, my career encompasses anything from classical and jazz concerts to musical theater productions and studio recording sessions. I am constantly looking for new ways to contribute to my craft and find new outlets for performing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Piccolo Music

My teaching style is flexible, supportive, and student-focused. I begin by understanding each students unique goalswhether its mastering technique, preparing for performances, building confidence, or simply enjoying music. From there, we create a personalized plan to help them succeed. I tailor my approach to match each students learning style, pace, and interests, whether theyre beginners or advanced musicians. My goal is to make every lesson engaging, encouraging, and rewarding, so students stay motivated and excited to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums French Horn Oboe

The methods that I choose to use with my students depends on what they want to learn. Some students want to just play classical music, some pop, some jazz, some marching band, etc. Therefore I do not use the same teaching methods for all students. With that being said, I do make certain that all of my srudents understand the basic elements of music, i.e., time and key signatures, note values, melody, rhythm, harmony, pitch, intonation (if a wind instrument), form, theme and variation, etc. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute

I enjoy seeing my students grow and I understand that patience is the key to success. I move at the pace of the student and I love to motivate my students to be great. Everybody learns differently and I take notice of that. I will run my lessons based on the student's strength and effectively develop the students weaknesses. I am fun to work with! Read More

Instruments: Flute

I began teaching 13 years ago though the Yamaha Teaching program, followed by giving private lessons 13 years ago back in my college years and have been teaching students all around the world since then, both in person in California, and through Zoom, online. I also offer college and career advisement as well as help in competition and audition preparations. Additionally, I am serving as a guest artist, giving masterclasses and coaching at the multiple different music festivals in the United States as well as adjudicate music competitions. Read More