Music Lessons in Birds Landing, CA

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Piccolo

I have been teaching music for over 15 years and have extensive experience teaching children with special needs.  I am experienced in teaching private 1:1 lessons as well as directing small ensembes.  Read More

Instruments: Violin

My teaching style is mainly to be patient. It should be understood that every grows at their own pace. I think the very first lesson would require me to hear the student play and decide on a case by case basis on a plan that is best for them. As the student progresses with their learning, it is also important to observe the student and respond to their needs. I will for all students emphasize how grip. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

If you’ve tried and failed, or even if you’ve never touched a piano, Smiley can teach you. And, you’ll have fun doing it because with my easy approach to learning, you will start playing the songs you like from day one, not practicing endless scales all the time, and boring music language that would be difficult to understand the first day. With my easy learning how to play approach, you would lean your first song and be able to play it, over and over until you learn a new song to share. Read More

Instruments: Drums

For 20+ years, I have been part of Cairo's diverse music scene, performing live with a variety of musical acts and teaching drums to students for 12+ years. I've had the opportunity to learn and play different genres with a particular affinity for rock, jazz/funk, electronic music and Egyptian percussion, having been the drummer for The American University in Cairo Arab music ensemble for many years. -Learn basic to advanced drumming skills: technique, independence, orchestration and understand different musical styles of drumming. -Choose to focus on drum kit, Egyptian percussion (tabla/darbuka, duf) or both. -All skill levels welcome (ages 5+) -Taught in a safe, fun environment in Upper Rockridge Read More

Instruments: Piano

I like to set clear but realistic goals for students, so each student can learn at their own pace. I'm a big believer in positive reinforcement. I think the best motivation comes from within, and I aim to fuel this by finding out what inspires the student most and helping them reach their own goals. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I am largely a self-taught player. I play for 1-3 hours each day, honing my skills and feel. I dont teach reading, although I use basic notation for exercises and grooves. I have played in numerous musical situations, from jazz to rock, blues, country and even Cabaret, both on the East Coast and in the Bay Area. I have been in groups that have played in the Cow Palace, in front of thousands of people, the Concord Pavilion, and the former Keystone Korner jazz club. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar

When it comes to teaching, I find the most important thing is that we work towards the goal of what the student wants to learn - in the case of their preferred styles/genres of music, and the songs that they really enjoy. Every student has their own individual skill level and pace that can be developed and worked around. First, I would find out the level of skill and musical interests of the student, then I would create a lesson plan utilizing all of the tools at my disposal - both from my personal experience and from other educational sources, such as: Blues books, Rock books, Classical guitar/piano books, theory books, and tablature books, or music from popular bands. Read More