Music Lessons in Portola Valley, CA

Instruments: Drums

Teaches the fundamentals of music and fundamentals of percussion utilizing the drum kit, practice pad, audio/visual tools and text books; how to play basic, fundamental rhythms and patterns within different genres rock, blues, soul and Latin rhythms; teach music theory Students will gain the fundamental knowledge of drumming, coordination in their playing, acquire control, speed, touch, flexibility, power and be able to play on an advanced to professional level. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I prefer to let the student's personality and general skill level dictate the pace and style in which I teach. The greatest detriment to a student's progress is a lack of interest, so I try to give the students as much say as possible when deciding what piece of music they will be learning. Every student develops their skills at their own pace, so my key concern is keeping the students motivated and interested in everything we do during our lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

I am an Artist who loves to see his students succeed. I have a strong passion for music, and utilize that passion and the skills I've developed throughout my career to cultivate students into fellow Artists. My primary goal as a teacher is to tap into the potential artistry of the students. For that reason, I am not as focused on the technical skills, as I am about spotlighting the inspiration that will facilitate the student to embody the Artist with original expression and purpose in their art form. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For Voice: I always start with basic exercises. Breathing, Scales, Etc. After a few lessons, when the student is solidified in basic techniques, I will begin to introduce basic Art Song repertoire and work with the student to branch them out into their desired field of study, whether that be Opera, Pop, Musical Theater, Rock, etc. I always feel a strong base in Classical Technique is important to start with though. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students I prefer to use Mathew Hinsley's method "Guitar for Young People". All of the peers that I grew to admire growing up with guitar used this method and became very good very quickly. Once the student has outgrown this method of introducing guitar I like to dive into what interests them, any style of music, and anything that will push their passion for learning guitar. The first and foremost thing for students is allowing them to grow with the guitar, and anything that might help with that is something I'll do. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I grew up in a household full of music. My Dad loved jazz while my Mother loved opera and classical music. They constantly played their respective recordings throughout the day. I began guitar lessons at 9 with a music teacher in the neighborhood who had a good reputation. However, I found his teaching style to be lacking warmth or any specific direction. So I quit and began teaching myself by learning melodies and chords from rock, pop and jazz recordings. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Double Bass

For beggining students and especially children I will start with books such as the Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has graped the fundamentals of musical theory and scales , we will begin to introduce a solo repertoire appropriate for skill set and age. For adults I simply try to find what the studenet is interested in, and guide my instruction accordinglu to keep the lessons fun and engaging, no matter their ability level! Read More