Maximino T
Instruments: Piano, Violin, Cello, Viola, Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet, Piccolo, Oboe
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop

I started teaching violin about 15 years ago. A few years later I started teaching viola and cello. When I got to CSULB I started learning all the band instruments. I did some coaching for several years at middle schools and high schools. After that I bought a lot a wind instruments and started to teach wind instruments privately. Playing and teaching each instrument is like entering a different world. Each instrument is special in its own way. I usually teach classical as the basis for all other styles of music. A lot of students bring contemporary music that they want to learn and if they are able to play it, I teach it to them. I have recitals once or twice a year. It is like a progress report for the parents so they can see their student's progress.

For stringed instruments, I uses the Suzuki method for teaching the basic repertory of the instruments. This method is an ear training method in which the student plays by ear. It starts out very simple so students of all ages can learn and progress very quickly. For learning to read music I use one of the method books like "A Tune a day" or Strictly Strings which teach the fundamentals of read music and music theory. I also use the Essentials for Strings book so students can learn their scales and rhythms. For winds, I use the Standard of Excellence or Essential Elements method books. These are great because they come with a CD or Password that students can use to listen to online. They come with play-along tracks that students can use for practicing.