Piano Lessons in Novato, CA

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 Voice

I have been teaching piano for over twenty years. My teaching philosophy is that every piano lesson should be fun. For young beginners, I focus on basic technique. The reason is that it is very important to form good playing skills right from the beginning. For older students, I broaden their musical knowlege by introducing piano literature from different time periods. I also encourage them to pick songs that they like to play. Read More

Instruments: Piano Clarinet

I teach all styles of music. 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. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Organ Ukulele Electric Violin Music Keyboard Electric Guitar

Music is something that takes time to understand. It clicks in some students, but most kids take a while to develop musically. Patience is the most pronounced characteristic in my teaching style. It's easy to tell the student what they're doing wrong and what to correct, but that doesn't mean it's the most effective practice. Some kids will get nervous and make the same mistake over and over again. This is where it's important to use positive reinforcement and give the student time and space to be able to understand their mistake and fix it. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I've been teaching private lessons in music since I was in high school and have always enjoyed sharing and mentoring younger students and professionals whenever my guidance or council has been sought. I've crossed pollinated my teaching methods over the years with my experiences working in a variety of environments from Universities, Opera Houses, Concert Venues, Theatres, and dojos. I like to emphasize the consistency of practice and finding the enjoyment in each session of practice and play. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Keyboard

Music is my life. I actually enjoy teaching music and being creative with all ages and all kinds of people. Ive had the opportunity to play all over the world with jazz bands, Afro Cuban ensembles, top 40 bands as well as my own band which is a mix of original music that is jazz, r and b, soul, hip hop, reggae, latin and funk. I also direct a singing group in Richmond called Voices of Reason. 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