Music Lessons in Saint Helena, CA

Instruments: Piano Voice Clarinet

I firmly believe that every student is different and therefore has their own learning style. it is very important for me to understand what their learning style is so that I can cater to that in our lessons. Through this methodology, I have found that my students have more productive lessons and grow faster as vocalists and piano players. Given that I believe every student is different, I will set goals for them based on how quickly they're able to make progress. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trombone

For beginners, I like to start with the Standard of Excellence book 1, and intermediate students with book 2. The trombone is such a versatile instrument that there are tons of different styles of playing to practice. Depending on the student's level I will build curriculum for them. We will also play duets together, because it's very important to learn how to play well with others. Scales, lip slurs, and other exercises will be implemented as well. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ

I try my very best to avoid criticism, encourage curiosity, and open doors at every lesson. Constant criticism can put a permanent damper on a student's love of music. Exploration can lead to a lifetime of enjoyment! In the Photo Gallery above, the first pic is of David, age 6-1/2, playing organ for the first time. He has been watching me play during a church service, so I offered to show him a few things. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I enjoy observing each student’s character in their playing and design lessons tailored for them. Also finding a good balance between the music that a student is good at, and others that a student is not familiar with. Playing piano is in a way of expressing one's opinion through music. Learning the history, musicology, stories behind a piece, and the different techniques and tones for expressing the music, are all important features in my teaching. Read More

Instruments: Oboe English Horn

I played with the Musician's Workshop orchestra in Temecula, CA while in high school. The orchestra was a beginner program and I joined to play as a mentor. I enjoyed mentoring the younger players in the group and did some x22mini lessonsx22 during our playing breaks with some of the wind musicians. This began my love of teaching. I did an apprenticeship in 2008 with the Master Musican in Murrieta CA to learn musical instrument repair, and taught music lessons with them to beginners. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I first picked up a Yamaha flute at my public school in the 5th grade and it changed my life. I traversed conflict-countries carrying only my flute, I was welcomed to cities and performed alongside renowned musicians in places like Havana, Seattle, Ramallah and Beijing. Then, I picked up the pen in college, graduate school, and law school to learn how to organize, operate, and help fund artist-educators share this gift and language with the youth. Read More

Instruments: Piano Clarinet

I begin teaching from piano books published by Alfred. I also have the student learn their scales as well as give a weekly written music theory assignment. I incorporate styles and songs the student enjoys listening to or playing as well. I like to teach classical music. With this foundation, ALL other music is much easier to play, and helps tremendously with their sight reading skills. Performance recitals are recommended, but not required. Read More