Music Lessons in Port Chicago, CA

Instruments: Piano

I've loved playing piano since I was 4 years old, and I love to share music with others. I have a classical background, and a particular interest in contemporary music and extended techniques. I studied and performed piano at Colorado College, and as a graduate student at Mills College. I've had the opportunity to tour the world with the Bowed Piano Ensemble, an ensemble that focuses on extended piano techniques. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Clarinet

Sometimes, my students will spend a couple weeks on a song, and sometimes they will spend five months on a song. It is all dependent on what they need to succeed. Practicing is a major concept that I focus on and therefore provide every student with weekly practice sheets as well as written monthly progress reports to their parents. In lessons with me, there is nothing we can't do and that is what I strive to show my students every week. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

Smiley has studied piano since the age of 5 and has been fortunate to study with the Carl Wheeler the musician who wrote and played for Tony Toni tone, as well as Beyonce and high profile headliners. Smiley has played for celebrity singers including Carlos Santana, comedian Tommy Davidson, as well as John Witherspoon. He a Degree in music from the University of Berklee, and has taught piano and voice since 2005. he enjoys working with people and uses his patience and perceptiveness to communicate music to others. Read More

Instruments: Piano Oboe

What I feel the most rewarding of teaching is to see my students grow musically and develop a passion for music. "Consistent" and "productive" practice are the key points I emphasize for all the students. I personally believe that being able to "see the result" can help students gain confidence about their potential so students will be eager to challenge more in order to accomplish a higher level. In order to promote effectiveness, it is essentially important that students understand what to improve and what the best method is for practice. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My style of teaching also varies greatly with each individual. Some students have specific music from school or from outside music groups that they want to learn and also need to learn the skills to be able to play that particular music. Other students come with a desire just to improve their current abilities, and we find ways to do that by choosing inspiring music together. Sometimes playing duets is a great way to do that, and when its not possible to play together in real time I make recordings that the student can enjoy playing with. Read More

Instruments: Voice

My teaching started at my time at West Valley College. As a teacher assistant, I assisted students of a wide range of ages and levels. My experience as a teacher with younger students comes from my background in music education and choral conducting. I began teaching privately about a year ago. I teach beginning students, who learn important musicianship skills and music theory, to more advanced students, who seek to expand their repertoire and gain a deeper understanding of their instrument. Read More