Music Lessons in Hercules, CA

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion

Teaching drums the past ten years has exposed me to over 100 students of all skill levels, beginner to advanced, and all ages. My passion for teaching goes well beyond the limits of music and toward the fulfillment of personal development and success of each student. This approach, directly influenced by my experience working with children with developmental disabilities, demands thoughtfulness, customizing a vision that best fits the needs and skill set of the individual. Read More

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: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

I began teaching in college and focused on motivating younger players to continue to exploring the instrument. I noticed early on that so many young students would stop showing up to lesson after just a few weeks. My goal has always been to expose every student to the potential their instrument has. A lot of this comes with making the lessons reinvent to "Real life". During drum lessons I often have a guitar or bass on me so we can play Example 23 from page 10 in a real musical setting. Read More

Instruments: Oboe English Horn

I am an enthusiastic music teacher focusing on oboe and English horn. I studied at and graduated from Interlochen Arts Academy. I was accepted with scholarships to the University of Arizona and attended as an oboe performance major. I have had master classes with many significant figures in the oboe world including but not limited to: Elaine Douvas - principle oboist with the NY Metropolitan Opera, Carolyn Hove - English hornist with the LA Philharmonic. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar

Music is such a fantastic tool for keeping children productive in a creative way. By simultaneously working on technique and theory, my students learn how to support an ensemble with their own creative input. I also help students understand their limitations not as faults or failings, but as guidelines for the creative process. Composition/Songwriting is a major element of this course. Read More

Instruments: Trombone

I tailor each lesson program specifically to the student. I have a large number of method and etude books ranging from the Essential Elements for beginners, all the way to the Boutry Advanced Studies. Solo literature also plays an important role, as recitals will be a part of the teaching program. For older and more advanced students, I will find literature that will provide a suitable challenge. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More