Music Lessons in Clayton, CA

Instruments: Voice

I help students discover how to set themselves apart and create an artist brand. Students must understand that although proper technique and a "nice voice" can get attention, long-term success is greatly determined by how they can create and retain a following, and keep up with a demanding, competitive, and constant-changing industry. Depending on the student's progress, I will give an assessment at a time I see fit where they will perform in front of a group of people (student's friends and family, and other students) that will provide constructive feedback. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginning students, I choose Alfred's Basic Piano Library and Faber Piano Adventures, and other brands/materials that fits the need of the student. I often made teaching materials myself, as well as writing music for my students. The most important thing for beginners are keeping interest and correct postures. Starting from songs the student recognize usually helps. For advance students, I usually recommend repertoire covering all 4 classical periods, plus etudes and finger trainings. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Synthesizer Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Im a dedicated and passionate creative with years of experience to share with my students; Im empathetic and good at teaching you the way you learn. I grew up playing blues and jazz in venues and clubs around the Bay Area as a teen and later graduated from Berklee College of Music with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Electronic Production and Design, where I had the opportunity to dive into the world of production, synthesis and electronics while simultaneously studying guitar as my principle instrument. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Ukulele Mandolin Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I always say that rhythm is more important than the notes. Play the right rhythm and the notes will come instead of playing every right note while sacrificing rhythm. I encourage students to make their mistakes loud, proud, and in rhythm so everyone has a better idea of what needs to be worked on most. I also emphasize isolating parts to practice and working backwards. Example: play the last two bars of the song until comfortable with it, now play the last 4 bars, last 6, last 8...etc., whole song. Read More

Instruments: Music

I primarily teach the saxophone to younger students, and in this area I emphasize the fundamentals of tone production and the development of the musical imagination. My thinking here is simple: if you understand how the instrument works and you can imagine how something should sound, it takes only a matter of experimentation and diligence to achieve your goals. If the student is prepared to do this, I am there as an enthusiastic supporter and facilitator. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

i individualize my teaching approach based on the unique needs of each student, whether they are children or adults. Each student learns differently and some learn by hearing and copying; others learn best with reading music. I don't use one approach for everyone. I change my method for each student and based on their schedule, we move at a pace appropriate to their needs. Everyone learns differently. Some rely on listening so with these students I show them how to do parts of music and they listen and copy. Read More