Music Lessons in Pico Heights, 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: Violin

Im a working composer, hailing from the Pacific Northwest, who is familiar with both the rigors of musicianship and the exploratory nature of creative work. I was awarded a masters degree in 2012 from Western Washington University where I also began a lengthy creative partnership with a non-profit dance company. Additionally, I lent my talents to some of the finest animators in the Seattle area, scoring works appearing at the Sundance Film Festival, the Seattle International Film Festival, nytimes.com, vanityfair.com, and numerous other venues. Read More

Instruments: Voice

First lessons are always about getting to know your students. Every habit or detail about how you phonate will establish the grounds for what vocal exercises will be given to fix current bad habits. The students background in music is also just as important. This includes instruments played, amount of time they have played said instrument. Similar questions regarding student's vocal experience as well as what their best choice of learning method is. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Latin Percussion

For beginning drums students, I typically star with a simple beat that the student feels good about. From then, we start learning important concepts as dynamics, tempo, intensity, groove,... Once the student has a grasp of the fundamentals, we can take a look into learning specific songs that he/she likes, reading, new styles/approcahes, preparation for a recording, composition,... Always keeping the lessons motiviating and fun, no matter the level. Read More

Instruments: Trombone

The lessons are structured and built around the needs of each individual student. We begin by exploring strengths and weaknesses, and then customize materials and methods based on this. At the center of my pedagogical philosophy is a style of learning built on positive reinforcement, using methods that are supported by research on brain development and learning. For older students that are more driven, we also spend more time on developing effective strategies for individual practice, and together we set clear developmental goals. Read More