Trombone Lessons in Oakland, CA

Instruments: Piano Trombone Euphonium Tuba Keyboard

For all students my primary focus is tone and sound production and going from there I usually have beginning students start on the standard of excellence books, these books usually go hand in hand all the way up to the end of junior high school For more advanced students I have them use the Arban's Method for Trombone/Euphonium, Melodius Etudes by Rochut, and any solo or ensemble piece which fits their current level. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Euphonium

My approach to teaching supports the student in meeting their goals on the instrument, with an emphasis on playing with your best sound. Additionally, the mind is the most powerful tool that any of us have and the instrument is an extension of that. Helping students reach their potential by matching the greatest sound they can imagine to what is produced on the horn. Students will also be exposed to all standard trombone method books, study fundamentals, form healthy habits, learn instrument care, and be encouraged to participate in competitions and extracurricular music activities. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Euphonium Tuba

I really try to work with the student with where they are at or where they want to go with their music. I was a slow learner on piano, so I can understand how confusing and frustrating it can be at times to learn an instrument. I really work to make sure that the students under stand the basics because that will outlast me when I am long gone from their life. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I use a two pronged approach to my lessons. I start with fundamentals, especially focusing on two areas: sound and counting. 1.) Sound: Over the last 34 years, I've found that the student who does not sound good - even though he or she can play all notes and rhythms - will not be pleasing to anyone who hears them play. What good is it if he can play all rhythms and notes and sound bad? Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Ukulele Recorder Euphonium French Horn Tuba Music

Making sure that the student is having fun, learning and achieving their musical goals is most important. I understand that each student progresses at their own pace and has diffrent goals and desires. While there are certian excersises that everyone needs to work on, solos and concert pieces are what students are drawn to. Therefore, I make sure that students are working on fun and challenging pieces that will keep them engaged in music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trombone

I learned my fundamentals as a musician from my musician mother who is a vocalist and childhood piano teachers she set me up with from ages 4-12. At the age of 12, I picked up the trombone in the school instrumental program. I continued to play in school bands throughout my education and in high school, I was set up with a private trombone instructor. Throughout high school and college Ive studied with professional trombonists: Don Kennelly - SF Opera Bass Trombone, Dave Martell, David Taylor - New York, and Doug Beavers and John Gove. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Music Keyboard

For the exercises the student has mastered, I will assign the next exercise in the series or assign and go over a new exercise that strengthens whatever skill we are working on. If the student has not yet mastered the exercise we will go over it together. I will explain and discuss the technique and theory behind the exercise. I may make a recording for the student or write notes on the exercise for the student. Read More