Piano Lessons in Monrovia, CA

Instruments: Piano Voice

I think it's important for students to learn interpretation and musicality as much as technique, regardless of their instrument. For piano, I typically start with Hannon's piano exercises, and then move on to repertoire which highlights specific technical challenges, such as crossed hands or mixed meter. In the repertoire is where I also make sure to talk about common interpretation practices, as well as techniques for how to characterize a piece of music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

As mentioned above, each student is motivated by something different and has different musical goals. I try to find ways to make lessons fun and interesting for each and every student. As such, my approach for a less serious student will be different from my approach for a more serious student. However, I make sure that all students have a goal that they are working towards; Perhaps, a piece that they hope to perform at contest or a concert, or mastering their scales and arpeggios in every key. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Viola Bass Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have taught quite literally all ages. 5-75. Styles and lesson books used varied depending upon student and school. I usually taught Suzuki for violin, viola and classical guitar (tend to prefer Scott Tennant Pumping Nylon book for classical guitar though). And usually Faber Piano Adventures for young piano students. Eventually going to Clementi Sonatinas and Chopin Preludes. Also Mel Bay Modern Guitar for beginning rock/jazz guitarists. Then eventually going to Mickey Bakers Jazz Guitar books. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Electric Violin

Teaching is my passion. I started playing the violin at the age of 6 years old. Music gave me confidence in school and in my life. When I was in elementary school I found out that reading comprehension was difficult for me and so I had to get tutoring. I was very strong in music and that boosted my confidence in school. I have a lot of patience because of this but I also have high standards because I know what my students are capable of doing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Recorder Conga Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with CAGED System. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance looking into different genres such as RnB, Blues, Rock, Pop, Jazz. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. 5 minutes of warm up, 25 of theory, 20 of repertoire and 5 of talking about the next class. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Djembe

I'm a passionate and motivated instructor who loves working with students and sharing my love of music and arts. Throughout my career, I have made it a priority to educate, expand, and develop the audience in a very creative way. I have taught in various educational programs in Ecuador, Brazil and Los Angeles, including the Guri Santa Marcelina da Cultura Project (So Paulo), the CalArts Community Arts Association (CAP, Los Angeles) and Cultivating Creative Minds (Los Angeles). Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Euphonium

For beginning students, my primary resource is generally the purple Primer level Faber book, however I often use principles of teaching from Simply Music and Piano Safari that allow beginning students to get right into playing some very interesting songs without having to read them. I think reading is important, don't get me wrong. However, I think that the ability to be versatile on the sounds of the piano without the abstraction of music notes can be very helpful for fostering a love for music early on. Read More