Music Lessons in Vista, CA

Instruments: Guitar

I start out my beginning Guitar students learning the "open string chords" - I teach my students how to tune their guitars in addition to identifying the note names of each open string - I teach my students "chord progressions" (using the "open string chords") - I get my students playing songs as quickly as possible - i ask my students "what songs they would like to learn?" and proceed to teach them those songs - After my students have learned the "open string chords", i progress to teaching them "barre chords" - I teach my students how to use a "capo" Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

My philosophy is defined by the need for the student to be actively engaged in what they are doing. This means that I keep things moving during lessons. Within a broader structure, the student chooses what they want to work on. For all ages, I work to create a safe environment by actively encouraging mistakes. At all times, students must feel safe enough to fail. In many instances, a student's "mistake" would actually be correct in another situation. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Ukulele

I have been singing in choirs since I was in the sixth grade. My high school and college choirs, under the direction of Robert Istad and John Tebay, have given me the opportunities to sing for performances at the Hollywood Bowl, Greek Theater, Staples Center, Nokia Theater, and the Honda Center. I have had the privilege to perform with a variety of artists such as Andrea Boccelli, Beck, John Williams, Grizzly Bear, and Eric Whitacre, as well as perform with the LA Philharmonic and the Pacific Symphony. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

In my teaching I foster a 'singing' approach  to the piano.  Nothing though makes my heart sing more than to witness a student meet and exceed his or her musical goals. I facilitate this by nurturing a respectful and caring rapport which eventually transmits itself through the instrument as beautiful music. This is enabled (by both parties) through much patience and hard work. I have seen discipline like this translate into better study habits and scholastic success. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Since we are all individuals with our own stories to tell, our own desires and goals and our own way of developing it is essential to teach a lesson where each student evolves at their own pace with my guidance and encouragement. We set goals and work on their vocal books which can be used for any audition, performance or personal events. Students are eager to learn when they know they are able to choose their material while also knowing I will challenge them with my selections as well. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I began teaching part time drum lessons back in 1988; I realized I had a knack for it. After graduating from music school - Musicians Institute in Hollywood CA, I continued to pursue my educational goals attending California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo. To support myself while in school I taught upwards of 40 students a week working for a local drum shop called The Drum Circuit. Four years later, I received a BA from Cal Poly. Read More