Music Lessons in Dockweiler, CA

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin

Michelle has been surrounded by music since her infancy, and since then has continuously branched out to learn new styles and genres of this universal art of entertainment. A violinist, pianist, singer, and songwriter, Michelle is a wonderful fury of energy to be reckoned with - and her professional experience is equally as diverse as her talent. She has performed as a guest artist with Riuniti Opera, Near East Music Ensemble, The Erick Bolivar Band, Luis Eric Gonzalez, world-reknown jazz/pop trumpet player David Longoria, and has recorded violin and vocals for many tv cues and jingles. Her most recent singing credits include "9 to 5" on the Soundtrack of The Dictator with Sasha Baron Cohen, as well as violin for latin pop artist Erick Bolivar's "Amar Solo es Amar" (music video is currently in production). A true firework on the stage, Michelle exudes a dynamism and flare that is uniquely hers, and is known to contribute an undeniable positivity to her music workshops, collaborations, and concerts. It is with much joy and enthusiasm that she shares her knowledge of music & performing arts with her fellow colleagues and students!

Instruments: Cello

Each week at the end of their lesson, my students and I will sit down without the cello and discuss everything that they learned and everything that they need to work on for their next lesson.  Together, we set small realistic goals and acknowledge accompishments with small rewards in order to nurture and embolden each student.  I always encourage students to enter competitions, festivals, and other programs, as setting larger end goals can be the ultimate motivators!  

Instruments: Piano Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I began playing drums at the age of 12 when I joined my middle school marching band. By the time I was in high school, my passion for music making and involvment with various performing groups had completely consumed me. I decided to further my musical endeavors by studying jazz performance at two different music schools. I have obtained a bachelors degree from Florida State University (2012) and a masters degree for the California Institute of the Arts (2014). I have been playing professionally since 2008 in the northwest Florida and Los Angeles areas.

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Double Bass Acoustic Guitar

I never go into a first lesson with a new student with any expectations - everyone, regardless of age, is exposed to music differently, thus each person has their own unique experiences. I always like to start with new students by asking the following questions - What music do you like listening to? (genre, artist, etc.) What do you like about your instrument? What other instruments do you like? (for kids) What are your favorite subjects in school? (many basics in music often intersect with other school subjects) What are your goals (short and long term) with music/these lessons/other personal goals? From there, we go forward, learning necessary techniques and repertoire. When it comes to teaching technique, I try to avoid using terminology like "the right way" versus "the wrong way". Instead, I use "better way" or "more efficient way", and then explain why.