Music Lessons in Kensington, CA

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion

My teaching philosophy is student centered. I realize that every student is different in their physical or mental capabilities; that each student has different expectations with their relationship to music and with themselves; and that each student has their own strengths, insecurities, and pace of learning. Focusing on what makes each student different and unique is what guides how I teach each student. For example, I've had a handful of students with autism who had limited verbal capabilities. Read More

Instruments: Flute Clarinet

When it comes to my teaching style, it is important for the student to learn at their own pace.  I will set goals for my students based off of how he or she learns so that they can progress in a way that is comfortable for them.  I will never push the student to where he or she is uncomfortable and become discouraged and lose interest.  I also encourage the students to ask any questions that they have and that should never feel embarrassed about their questions. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet

I'm a caring, straight-forward and passionate instructor who believes anyone can achieve greatness when it comes to music. I graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Music in Trumpet Performance. I received my Master's Degree in Trumpet Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. I have performed in many countries including Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Czech Republic, Austria, China, Taiwan and Japan in venues such as the Kennedy Center, the Royal Concertgebouw in Amsterdam and the Berlin Philharmonie. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Euphonium

My approach to teaching supports the student in meeting their goals on the instrument, with an emphasis on playing with your best sound. Additionally, the mind is the most powerful tool that any of us have and the instrument is an extension of that. Helping students reach their potential by matching the greatest sound they can imagine to what is produced on the horn. Students will also be exposed to all standard trombone method books, study fundamentals, form healthy habits, learn instrument care, and be encouraged to participate in competitions and extracurricular music activities. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students I prefer to use Mathew Hinsley's method "Guitar for Young People". All of the peers that I grew to admire growing up with guitar used this method and became very good very quickly. Once the student has outgrown this method of introducing guitar I like to dive into what interests them, any style of music, and anything that will push their passion for learning guitar. The first and foremost thing for students is allowing them to grow with the guitar, and anything that might help with that is something I'll do. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar

I have been teaching privately since undergraduate college days. In addition to private lessons on guitar and piano, I have facilitated group workshops, directed ensembles, and tutored reading comprehension in some Oakland public schools. It's a profound joy to see young children have their first musical experiences as well as to see the fire of music be rekindled in those who have put an instrument down and have decided to pick it up once again. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I prefer to let the student's personality and general skill level dictate the pace and style in which I teach. The greatest detriment to a student's progress is a lack of interest, so I try to give the students as much say as possible when deciding what piece of music they will be learning. Every student develops their skills at their own pace, so my key concern is keeping the students motivated and interested in everything we do during our lessons. Read More