Music Lessons in Rolling Hills, CA

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

Hi there! My name is Chris Sullivan. I am a professional musician and educator. I recently graduated from the University of Southern California with a doctoral degree in Jazz Studies and Music Education. I am a professor at two universities on the west coast - The California Jazz Conservatory and the Glendale Community College. I am a patient and methodical teacher who loves to inspire and foster the interests of my students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I'm very passionate about being honest and straightforward with my students. I'm very prone to telling my students not just what I do but why I do it, as I believe it's important to develop holistic thinking. I also think it's important to get students curious about as much related to the art form as possible. So, I include extra information about history, theory, other aspects of the canon, etc. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For young students, I use a Suzuki Method hybrid, meaning I incorporate additional note-reading and music theory elements while using the Suzuki Violin books and Suzuki's core values of imitation and ear training. I also supplement with many pieces outside of the Suzuki Method, including folk, blues, fiddle, and other styles. As students progress I include traditional etudes, technique studies and scales. My ultimate goal is to give my students all the tools they need to play and learn pieces on their own, and to that end I ensure they fully comprehend and master each step of learning before introducing new concepts. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I try to adapt my teaching style to however I see the student (or peer) is most effective in learning. Some people are more chart based, and like the bars written out in time so they can follow it in a more technical manner. Some have a hard time reading music, so they go off of feel. This is more of an intuitive approach to learning. Both are fine for me, but depending on how the student is, one may be better than the other. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

For young students in first through sixth grade, I start them with the "Rubank Elementary Method for Trumpet or Cornet." Once the student feels comfortable with the basics out of that book, I will introduce recognizable solo repertoire and the Fundamentals for Brass Book by William BIng, which has a focus on fundamental control of the Trumpet. For students in middle school and high school, I will ask them to play and make and assessment based on what I feel will benefit the student the most. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Acoustic Guitar

This helps ensure that the student can thrive musically and in life. Also I do a lot of "visualizing" while teaching my students. Often, if they are struggling, I'll tell them to say something like, "I can do it" aloud a few times. I also have them close their eyes and really listen to me playing so they can visualize what it's like to play the chord or song before they even start to actually play. Read More