Music Lessons in Leona Valley, CA

Instruments: Drums

Hi! I moved to Los Angeles from Australia this year to further explore my love of music, performing, teaching and law! I have played the drums for 25 years and have been teaching for 15 (as an instrumental teacher and a classroom music teacher). In Australia I completed Bachelor of Laws, Graduate Diploma in Education and Bachelor of Music (Majoring in Jazz Drums) degrees. I am currently enrolled at the USC Gould School of Law, where I am completing a Master of Laws with a certificate in Entertainment Law.I have performed in a variety of bands ranging from rock, funk, jazz, latin and was also in a drum corps for 4 years. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I use several levels of method books that may encompass technical concepts (Moyse), orchestral studies (J. Donjon), Selected Duets, Solo works, Aebersold Jazz Studies and custom lesson plans that I create according to the performance level of the student. It is important to be creative in implementing the different levels of cognition to help students effectively retain and use new information. With regards to technical development I encourage all students to practice slowly for accuracy and muscle memory. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Accordion French Horn Music Keyboard

I find that metaphors using familiar things and processes, like the laws of nature and physics we see everyday, can help students grasp concepts that require marrying physical movements with mental flexibility. Perhaps we're discussing articulations and you're having trouble understanding stylistically how to approach and execute staccato with legato over it. We could turn to methods like the Breathing Gym to practice a physical manifestation of how that articulation should sound. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music Keyboard

My work extends beyond the stage, as I've had the privilege of recording and composing for acclaimed series like HBO's "Hacks" and Netflix's "Insiders." Collaborating with industry veterans such as Rob Lewis, known for his work with artists like Christina Aguilera, Fifth Harmony, and the Backstreet Boys, has been an inspiring part of my journey. Additionally, I've had the incredible opportunity to perform as a soloist with the Madrid Philharmonic Orchestra, presenting my composition "Espirales" and my piece "Murmullos," both of which received awards and were showcased at the prestigious Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando in Madrid, thanks to the support of the Fundacin Sax Ensemble. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar

I have always found it to be fulfilling to teach bass and music theory to those who are hungry to learn. I've been teaching part-time since college to help middle school students prepare for their high school jazz band auditions, teach new professionals industry lessons on how to conduct yourself in the work environment, and even just teaching retired senior citizens how to walk a jazz blues! I love to help people get closer to their musical goals no matter what level the student is at. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Organ Synthesizer Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe

I create custom lesson plans for all my students, integrating their interests, strengths and weaknesses into a cohesive, dynamic education schedule. I incorporate a variety of different lesson books to ensure musical reading while encouraging consistent exercises in using our musical ear. I use modern music to inspire students to learn the songs they like. I also promote songwriting and other creative outlets to inspire students to find their own musical voice. Read More

Instruments: Conga Music Djembe

Stick Control by George Lawrence Stone is a cornerstone of my teaching, its one of the best books out there for developing hand technique, speed, and control. I also use Syncopation by Ted Reed, which is a fantastic tool for building independence, improving reading skills, and applying rhythms in a musical way. One of the best ways to keep students engaged is getting them to play along with actual music as soon as possible. Read More