Music Lessons in Newport Coast, CA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Synthesizer Banjo

I am passionate about introducing music to young students as well as opening new doors to more experienced players. After studying Piano Performance at Biola University I went on the road as the guitar player for the rock band Fastball. I spent the next 12 years touring and recording in bands, honing my craft as a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer. In addition to teaching piano and guitar I now compose for television and film out of my home studio in North Hollywood, CA. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I believe that it is truly important for any of my students to enjoy and love the music that they're practicing and learning. Therefore, it is important that I develop a specific teaching plan for each student. I encourage setting goals for each student to track progress and celebrate every accomplishment, making students eager to learn more. I encourage live performance, through either school talent shows, auditions, etc, because it is important for any vocalist to practice performing in front of an audience. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been teaching since 2008. I thoroughly enjoy teaching students of all ages because I can relate to students who are learning and trying to progress in their instrument as I can remember being in their position when I started learning music. Seeing students progress and improve as a result of helping them, I find to be one of the most rewarding aspects for me personally. It’s never too late to start learning no matter what age you are. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Ukulele Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am very fortunate to have worked with great teachers, who not only inspired me to play the guitar at a very high level but also to desire to pass on that knowledge to my students. I am very passionate about working with all my students. I strive to make every student comfortable, but gently nudge them to become the best musician they possibly can. I encourage students to get ready and perform on stage and in front of an audience as soon as possible. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

After service in the US Army Band and moving to California, I began co-leading music groups, writing out original charts, touring and playing live performances throughout California. I have played smooth jazz background at restaurants. For over 10 years, I led a duo, voice, Latin piano duo with Francisca Gorre, in the Sacramento area. I continue as a solo jazz and blues performer. I'm always a listener and learner incorporating what I hear in music to impart in lessons for students. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle

As a student I had many teachers who made me achieve at their pace and with their understanding of what the violin required. Ultimately the classical route did not give me enough freedom to play the way I wanted to. In my work as a teacher I have found that the pursuit of an instrument, though hard work, should fundamentally be enjoyable for the student. Whether it is finding the music that resonates deeply with you, or constructing practice assignments that are clear and achievable within a week, I want to connect with each student I teach and help them to find a regular rhythm in their lessons that keeps them feeling productive. Read More

Instruments: Drums

For all of my students I start by allowing them to sit and feel the kit. Building a strong trusting relationship is important. I then proceed to dive into teaching simple 4/4 grooves to loosen the student up which processes into teaching basic rhythm studies and eventually the concepts of feel, groove, dynamics and of course timing. As session continue I evaluate students knowledge with song learning lessons and with critiques that's being with the positives and lead into where work can be done to improve. Read More