Piano Lessons in West Hills, CA

Instruments: Piano

I have been teaching private lessons since 2003, and am on the music faculty at El Camino College, where I have taught class piano to adult students for 9 years. This year I was the chair of the Music Department at California State Summer School for the Arts (CSSSA), an intensive summer program for high school students, where I oversee a staff of 20 music teachers and program meaningful performances and events for our students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Double Bass Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My methods are geared toward the individual. Oftentimes I might start with a methods book for a beginner, but supplement it with musical choices by the individual. In selecting these choices, I find ways to simplify the music so that the student is able to be able to play it. My method is also based on questions that the student might ask. So while we will have an approach that is organized and structured, I find that addressing seemingly unrelated musical questions, can actually be incorporated into the tasks at hand. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is all about enjoying music and the instrument. I can pick up when a student is frustrated, confused or embarrassed and adjust the lesson accordingly. Overall, I want my students to have fun! I enjoy teaching how to read music and once a few notes are learned, I start applying it to songs that my students really enjoy. I also like to teach scales and harmonic structure so my students can begin to understand what's really going on in the music they enjoy. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums

For percussion, I have performed with many star attractions like Aretha Franklin, Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, Jr. and Joni Mitchell, to name a few. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For all students I access what your musical background is and what may be lacking from your knowledge and playing. I also ask what your particular goals and things you would like to learn are. From there then we will start to tailor the lesson as both us see fit. In general I like a student to be able to play three simple melodies before moving on to chords, rhythms, and music theory. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Synthesizer Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I like seeing progress and appreciation in music, and to me that is student success. I enjoy helping students meet their individual goals, and I encourage them to work their hardest to achieve their best. I use humor to keep things engaging. I learn from my students what works most effectively for them as individuals. One of the things my students really enjoy are those certificates at the end of the method books. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Drums Bass Guitar Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

As a passionate and experienced music instructor, I work with students of all ages and backgroundsfrom adults and teens to neurodivergent learnersoffering personalized one-on-one instruction as well as coaching for choirs and orchestras. My teaching philosophy is simple: music is a universal language that connects us, empowers us, and gives us a voice when words fall short. Especially in challenging times, I believe music is not a luxuryits a necessity. Read More