Piano Lessons in Placentia, CA

Instruments: Piano Drums

I have over 30 years of teaching and professional experience. Piano is my first instrument, but I also have a degree in percussion. For piano: I have studied with Charlie Banacos, a music master from the New England area for 11 years. For percussion: I have studied with Vic Firth, timpanist of the Boston Symphony and also Alan Dawson, jazz drummer. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Mallet Percussion

I really work hard to customize the lessons to each student, discussing with them (or their parent) what their goals are.  For beginning students who are children, I use a few great books, some of which I even learned out of when I took my first lessons at age 6. For older students, I try to be open to any material they're intrested in.  If a student  is set on learning to play Beach Boys songs, we don't spend so much time on the classic technique and rudiments BUT over the last 15 years I've developed a system of incorporating fundamentals into practical application that gets my students playing real songs right away while improving technique. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I take a very kinesthetic approach to teaching. I believe that no matter the level or style, evey singer benefits from understanding the way their vocal anatomy functions, and how to utilize it in a healthy way. Vocal longevity is a very high priority in my studio, as is having a good time. I am a firm believer that a teacher who does not help a student fall in love with their art has not done their job. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums

The way I teach is about showing the student "the dance" of drums. The exercises and rudiments they practice are the movements in a dance. For example, with Punk drums the movements need to be mastered and played fast so the student will have to practice to get the movements up to speed instead of focusing on the beat. With Pop drums the movements need to be comfortable but precise as the student learns the importance of a metronome and how to relate to it by thinking of it as a member of the band. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

My first emphasis is that you have to like what you're playing. I really try to focus on what music gets the student excited. For some of them, it comes quickly. Others it might take a while, and that is okay. Once I find the switch that engages the student's interest, that is my focus. I really emphasize getting students to read music and also understand the key components of music theory, so that they understand what it is they are playing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Drums Bass Guitar Euphonium Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have had a love a music for as long as I can remember. My mom used to play in her community band when she was pregnant with me. In 2013, I graduated from Chapman University with a Bachelor's degree in music performance, primarily in Trumpet and Bass Guitar. While in High School, I performed in every Ensemble I possibly could, which includes Symphonic Band, Marching Band, Orchestra, and Jazz Band. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I encourage students to be open and ask questions during their lessons. I want to get a clear picture of every student's learning style and interests to help them achieve their goals. I also encourage students to participate in bi-annual recitals which I put on in partnership with other music teachers in Santa Clarita, as performance is an excellent motivator for practice and consistency with lessons. I make it a point to stick with a regular lesson schedule, as consistent attendance is an extremely important factor in progress. Read More