Piano Lessons in Topanga, CA

Instruments: Piano Voice Flute Keyboard

I like to work with my students to figure out what their passion is within the wide scope of music, and work from there. My lessons include: technique and warm-up exercises, performance preparation, personalized arranging, and an emphasis on individualized lesson plans based on level, interests, and goals. Depending on the instrument, level, and genre, some teaching materials I like to use are: Faber series, Fingerpower series, Music for Little Mozarts, Czerny etudes, A Tune a Day, Forty Little Pieces, Steps to the Real Book (Jim Levy), Jazz Piano Handbook (Michele Weir), Heart It and Sing It! (Judy Niemack), classical and popular music repertoire, and my own original exercises. Read More

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

I have instructed and performed music for Nursing Homes and have coordinated/taught for Music Counts which provides music lessons to under-privileged youth. I have also developed leadership roles in my studies at Mannes in both composition courses and Michael Bacons Film Scoring and Music Technology course. Most recently, I have worked as an Audio/Video Editor and Sound Engineer for NV Factory. While there I did live camera and microphone operation for classical music concerts as well as mixing and mastering in post-production using ProTools 12 and Final Cut Pro X. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Euphonium Oboe Bassoon

I try to have as much fun as possible while still maintaining a high expectiation of performance.  I am, by trade and training, a comedian, so jokes and laughter abound. Most of my students might say I'm not as funny as I think I am, but we still have fun! I am, however a stickler for learning the basics of music theory and correct use of vocabulary. Students won't move on to the next level until I know they have a firm grasp of prior concepts. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Saxophone Bass Guitar Organ Acoustic Guitar

My goal for every student especially the beginners is to make them play like a pro as soon as possible with emphasis on playing music by ear. My way of teaching is kind of unconventional because based on my experience, it took me a long time before I was able to play any song that I like since reading notes would require unwavering attention and huge effort depending on student’s skills to be able to play it perfectly. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello

In addtion to teaching privately in my studio, both 'cello and piano for over 30 years now, I have also taught after school string classes, for all student levels. One unique project that occured was playing for a ribbon cutting ceremony for an adult care center where I featured my students who performed with me and a few of my colleagues. Coaching youth orchestra 'cello sections sometime culminated in my New American Quartet coaching College students then performing a concert for them and their families. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Everyone learns differently, so I tailor my lessons to meet the needs and goals of each individual. In any case, regular practice and lessons are crucial to success. I encourage the parents of young students to be involved in their kids' progress to help establish good habits. With adults, it's all about developing a regular practice schedule that they can stick to realistic goals. I like to spend lesson time addressing at least 2 pieces of music, some sort of technical skill, and occasionally incorporating games and listening exercises. Read More