Piano Lessons in Martinez, CA

Instruments: Piano Trombone

My teaching style is flexible. One of my teachers asked me up front how hard I wanted him to be on me and thats something we would go over as well. Its important I learn the personality and learning style of the student. Its important to establish a trust and understanding so as not to take criticisms personally so that we can develop weaknesses and build on strengths. Every musician has different strengths and weaknesses my goal is to help them achieve their best musical self to grow their confidence and be as fully realized as possible. Read More

Instruments: Piano Music Keyboard

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private piano lessons part time 10 years ago. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that finding the genre the student likes can go a long way in helping them enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Music has taken me to see places of the world I would have never been, music has given me some of the coolest jobs in my life. Playing organ for the San Jose Sharks NHL team was a dream come true, and I am still the youngest person to have held that job in the NHL. They still use all of my recordings. I went to the Virgin Islands last year to perform with a band on New Year's Eve, total paradise all to enjoy just for playing some music! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Conga Latin Percussion

My teaching style consists of compassion, patience and developing discipline for ones instrument little by little. Nothing is pushed, but my philosophy is "bit by bit." I want the student to be able to be challenged at the same time having fun and enjoying their instrument. I do have my own feel for each student which is completely different and varies to their ability, personality and behavior, but I am constantly tuned into my students to and what their needs and likes are. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

I like to focus on the practical application and aural aspects of instrumental learning as well as the technical skills. I invest heavily in listening and understanding as opposed to the largely 'by rote' style I was subjected to growing up! Whilst I will follow a student/parents desired path regarding exams, I will provide a rounded musical learning and experience that will enable students to excel in all endeavours and be creative, as well as pass exams. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Keyboard

For beginner students I like to start them with basic principles such as how to properly hold the bow and how to properly sit with the cello. I like to use methods such as Suzuki to work on musicality, and Essential elements to work on basics. For intermediate I like to work with the Popper etudes and the Bach Cello Suites, I also add some of the more advanced Suzuki books. Read More

Instruments: Piano

It's been my strong belief that every student is unique in all aspects - it is my responsibility to recognize the uniqueness of the student, and individualize the lesson for each student's need. I am familiar with multiple methods - the most common ones include Alfred Basic Library, PIano Adventures, Music Tree, and Piano Safari; other methods include Bastien Piano Basics, Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, and many others. I use different methods with different students - decisions are usually made after the initial interview or when I have sufficient observation of the student's learning style, background, and personality. Read More