Piano Lessons in Capistrano Beach, CA

Instruments: Piano

I have been teaching music for the last 17 years. I teach ages from 10 to adult. My music teaching incorporates Russian classical methods and the best traditions of Russian piano performance school. I also incorporate pop, rock and jazz into students' curriculum. It is important for me to know that my student is enjoying the lesson. I encourage my student to enter competitions and recitals so they can feel good about their achievements. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

 My philosophy is to ask why, investigate what interests the student to learn music in the first place. Nine times out of ten it is a short-lived pipe dream, when the realization of consistent practice, sacrifice, and hard work equals results is reality. I then utilize lessons plans or books that I have used, accordingly. I find its good practice to have some form of a guide or lesson plan, but also make sure they have the basic concept of music theory down in order for the journey to make sense. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Lap Steel Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Piano or Guitar Lessons for the Young Beginner by Andrew Scott and Gary Turner. The student, even at a young age, learns an introduction to music theory. Each concept is taught in a very methodical and step-by-step approach. As a teacher, I am looking to prepare students for ongoing learning for years to come. The language of music can be very confusing and I am looking for ways to minimize those perplexing times. 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: Piano

As with methods, I do not have one lesson style.  My approach with a three year old is different than with a seventy year old. I am detailed in my critiques, but patient, positive, and creative with explanations.  My goal is for the students to learn to love and appreciate music and for them to use it not as a short term goal, but as something they can live with and enjoy for the rest of their lives.  I sets appropriate goals with recitals, festivals and examinations to both motivate and encourage students, ensuring that they have a positive experience. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For younger beginning students, I typically use a method book, such as Accent on Achievement or something similar. For older beginners, I typically use the Rubank beginner's book. With this book, the student learns the fundamentals for their instrument. Once the student demonstrates an understanding of this, we will move on to sheet music. For more advanced students, we will typically use an etude book like Klose to explore the technical aspects of musical performance (such as technique development, phrasing, dynamics, etc.). Read More