Music Lessons in La Canada Flintridge, CA

Instruments: Piano Violin Music

I began teaching piano and violin lessons 15 years ago and have been consistently teaching ever since. Encouraging daily practice, and helping the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument is one of the key points. While enjoyment is the number one rule, following their development and progress with certain method books are really important. I encourage my students to compose their own original material as well as participate in certification exams and recitals. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Hi, I am a highly passionate and devoted instructor. Music has captivated my mind and imagination all of my life, so having the opportunity to teach an instrument, music theory, and talk about music is something I genuinely cherish. I graduated from the University of California, San Diego in June of 2023, and have been working as a guitar instructor for just about 3 years now. I have spent 11 years with the guitar, and even spent 6 years as part of an advanced choir before college. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

Everyone, has a different level of musical appetite and talent. Therefore, one of the most important roles of a music instructor is to explore their student's learning abilities and guide them through their musical journey. In this journey the most important factor is to enjoy all the scenery of the road which leads to mastering of their musical instruments both in the class room and their practice time. As a guitar teacher, I have always tried to help my students achieve these important goals with detailed and careful planning. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginner students, I use the Piano Adventure series, and for adults, I utilize Alfred or Adventure Adult books. Intermediate and advanced level students mainly work with individual books dedicated to composers from different eras. Despite having excellent resources, I always strive to personalize the approach and book selection according to each student's needs using a one-on-one customized approach to teaching. I create a yearly plan for each student I receive, which includes foundational piano lessons, preparation for competitions, and special pieces for the Christmas season. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trombone Synthesizer Keyboard

I want to see my students gain knowledge as well as a passion for music from their time of study. I intend to fulfill both of these objectives by assessing and evaluating each students individual skill set and catering to the ideas concepts that in my opinion will help them progress in the way most needed. I find it very important that music becomes fun for those learning it. The enjoyment of the art is what continues to push me forward in my learning to this day, therefore it is very important that music becomes a place of joy and fun, even within education. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Piccolo Music

My teaching approach is patient, flexible, and student-centered. I meet each student where they are, tailoring lessons to fit their individual needs, goals, and learning styles. Whether a student is preparing for auditions, learning a new instrument, or playing just for fun, we work together to set meaningful goals and achieve them step by step. I strive to make every lesson fun, engaging, and encouragingso students stay motivated, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love and appreciation of music. 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

He is featured on the John Daversa Big Band's latest studio album, "American Dreamers". As a grad student at Miami, Derek was a guest lecturer in Jazz Pedagogy courses and guest conducted the Frost Studio Jazz Band. He has been a member of the Jazz Education Network since 2013 and the International Trombone Association since 2014. His teachers include Vern Kagarice, Jan Kagarice, Tony Baker, Steve Wiest, Andre Hayward, and Dante Luciani. Read More