Music Lessons in Juniper Hills, CA

Instruments: Piano Violin

I stress the basics: scales, arpeggios and chords for piano and scales and double stops for violin. In regard to the piano, I have students practice each hand alone before combining them. Generally two pieces are assigned for students to work on and that work is continued for several weeks. I emphasize sight reading and rhythm. These are two aspects of music that are difficult for many. In regard to reading, the names and purposes of the various signs and symbols must be learned. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I embarked on my journey as a cello instructor during my undergraduate years, where both the Eastman School of Music and Northwestern University provided comprehensive pedagogy classes to hone our skills in teaching our chosen musical instruments professionally. Since establishing my home studio in 2016, teaching has evolved into a genuine passion of mine. My primary goal is to ensure that my students not only enjoy their time learning the cello with me but also glean valuable insights to carry beyond the classroom. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Recorder

From Newbreed to Chapin to Afro-Cuban Rhythm for drum set, there are many methods that are worth exploring. That being said, sometimes learning songs (covers) can be the best way to learn quickly and it can be a lot of fun. Something I've done many times too is writing precise exercises for students in order to address and target specific needs. Let's say a student has difficulty with his ghost notes on his/her left hand, I can easily come up with fun exercises in order to speed up the progress and get improvements for that student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Mallet Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

During my time teaching at Victor Litz Music, where I taught for 12 years, I was lucky to work with one student who had severe dyslexia. Though he had difficulty in a classroom setting, this students general reading and musical skills blossomed over the course of several years of instruction. Through patience and a customized approach I was able to reach him in ways that, according to his parents, no other teacher was able to do. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar

I organize recitals and encourage participation in competitions, as they offer opportunities to showcase growth and receive constructive feedback. These experiences help students conquer performance anxiety and connect with their audience on a deeper level. As a member of MTAC I promote the Certificate of Merit annual testing program, that I was a Branch Chairman of for 13 years, and actually completed through senior yr in high school myself as a student. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Setting realistic goals is definitely a good place to start. Also, I encourage transcribing music in small sections, and to always start slow and take deep breaths, as this will reduce the student's normal anxiety and has done wonders in my own playing as well. Using a rhythm reference like a metronome or a drum loop while practicing is also a must, at it helps develop the student's groove. Internalizing music by developing the student's ear is also a very important part of my teaching style as Is applicable in any genre (hear it before you play it!) Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

In 2010, Gabriel decided to leave his academic studies to pursue his performance and teaching career full time, which has led to opportunities to perform and record throughout the world with several bands and artists, as well as teach some well known professional players. Throughout his career, Gabriel has toured throughout the US and World, sharing the stage with several national and international acts, including Quactus, Naked Eyes, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Collective Soul, Violent Femmes, Billy Squire, Wang Chung, A Flock of Seagulls, John Popper (Blues Traveler), Leo Nocentelli (The Meters), Marc Ford (Black Crowes), Stephen Perkins (Jane's Addiction), Nels Cline (Wilco), Kris Myers (Umphrey's McGee), Moonalice (w/ members of Phil Lesh and Friends, Hot Tuna, Bruce Hornsby, and Jefferson Starship), EOTO (w/ members of String Cheese Incident), Melvin Seals and the Jerry Garcia Band, Particle, The Maykers (w/ members of the Jerry Garcia Band), Bobby Vega (Sly and the Family Stone), CR Gruver (Polytoxic/Outformation), Willie Waldman, The New Mastersounds, The Heavy Pets, Cubensis, Jamie Janover, Leon Mobley, Al Howard & the K23 Orchestra, Erasure, Berlin, Men Without Hats, Howard Jones, Andy Bell, When in Rome, Animotion, The Romantics, and Sweet. Read More