Music Lessons in Altadena, CA

Instruments: Drums

I have found that showing instead of telling comes across really well in teaching. I like to break things down and make sure a student isn't wasting time trying to get something new. I make them set reasonable goals in the moment till they feel like they can walk away having something new under their belt. To me one of the most important parts of showing a student something new is explaining why they should learn it or why they should do an assignment and how they can apply these things to real musical situations. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums

The way I teach is about showing the student "the dance" of drums. The exercises and rudiments they practice are the movements in a dance. For example, with Punk drums the movements need to be mastered and played fast so the student will have to practice to get the movements up to speed instead of focusing on the beat. With Pop drums the movements need to be comfortable but precise as the student learns the importance of a metronome and how to relate to it by thinking of it as a member of the band. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

He permitted me to, so I got an A grade for that class. I took some music classes at Pasadena City College. I had been in various bands since my teens. I was in the Kingston Beat All Stars. That band played mostly Jamaican ska and reggae standards. Currently I'm in a duo called Infinite Suns. We're just starting out. I'm a versatile player. I can play rock music, acoustic guitar instrumentals, etc. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Recorder

From Newbreed to Chapin to Afro-Cuban Rhythm for drum set, there are many methods that are worth exploring. That being said, sometimes learning songs (covers) can be the best way to learn quickly and it can be a lot of fun. Something I've done many times too is writing precise exercises for students in order to address and target specific needs. Let's say a student has difficulty with his ghost notes on his/her left hand, I can easily come up with fun exercises in order to speed up the progress and get improvements for that student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

My teaching experience started in high school when my private teacher started teaching me how to teach. I then accepted students on a continual basis, usually working two jobs. I realized at a later point in my life that I would like to make teaching my profession and started getting more serious about how I would proceed with teaching music. I have had students for over 25 years and without a doubt, parental involvement and practice are the two main factors for success of young students, along with a good teacher. Read More

Instruments: Piano

In my piano teaching practice, I employ a diverse range of methods to ensure that students receive a comprehensive musical education. Utilizing Keith Snell's method books as a primary resource, I strive to provide a solid foundation in piano technique, repertoire, and musicianship. Additionally, I incorporate Julie McIntosh Johnson's theory method books, tailoring the materials to each student's unique skill level in order to deepen their understanding of music theory. Read More