Music Lessons in Culver City, CA

Instruments: Guitar Voice

I began teaching back in Boston when I was finishing up college. I immediately loved it and have been teaching now for over 7 years. I love teaching online and in person lessons in my studio, but I have also taught at various schools. I really focus on making my student comfortable and eager to learn more. I love music so much and I hope some of that shines through and inspires my students. 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: 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 Guitar Bass Guitar Double Bass Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is focused on helping each student feel at ease, so that they can better learn. I also am strength-based in.my approach. That is, I focus on each individuals strengths in learning. This is in contrast to other teaching styles which are geared toward focusing on an individuals challenges. I have observed that this is the best way to successfully address new musical techniques and concepts. An example might be a child who likes to sing, but is struggling to learn new notes. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

For beginning students, I work with a student for violin on the parts of the instrument and the bow. Few students learn quick on the parts of the violin and the bow.I used the violin books on All for Strings by Robert Frost and Kjos music company from San Diego. I go over the repertoire from a student to play the rhythm slowly and hearing the pitches for the school homework. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I specialize in teaching beginner guitar... even students who have never touched a guitar. I typically begin by teaching a very simple chord progression to a popular rock song, and by changing the strumming pattern, it's 2 songs in 1. By the end of the first lesson, I want the student to be able to play a song, not just random chords, so they can play along to it as practice. Then I assess what style, song, or band the student wants to learn so we can work towards playing material from that group or artist. Read More