Violin Lessons in Altadena, CA

Instruments: Piano Violin

I have enjoyed teaching both private and group music classes for over 15 years. I teach piano and violin . I teach a range of music styles from classical to folk to Mariachi Music. I received my degree from Loyola Marymount University. I have been a member of the Junior Philharmonic, Orchestra of California, Loyola Marymount University Orchestra and Beach Cities Symphony. I currently co-conduct the youth group Mariachi Alma Juvenil. I really enjoyed teaching students and seeing them progress from a novice to an intermediate to an advanced student. Read More

Instruments: Violin Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle

If a student has never played violin before, I usually start out with a combination of the Suzuki method, the American Fiddle Method, and Jazz Fiddle Wizard to develop a holistic approach, comfortable with playing multiple styles, improvising, and playing both from sheet music and by ear from the very begginning.  After the fundamentals are grasped, I ask the student what he or she really wants to play, and we develop technique and theory based on his or her favorite songs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Music

I began teaching piano and violin lessons 15 years ago and have been consistently teaching ever since. Encouraging daily practice, and helping the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument is one of the key points. While enjoyment is the number one rule, following their development and progress with certain method books are really important. I encourage my students to compose their own original material as well as participate in certification exams and recitals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Double Bass Music Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

When receiving a student I first like to get to know the student by friending them. Asking question as to what their likes are and just getting to know them. For the beginner we start of with a Method book that fits their age and personaity and go from there. For the student that already has had past music experience I like to hear them play at first and see at what level they are to be able to place them on the correct method. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Trombone Saxophone Clarinet

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music. Therefore, it is important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a student's desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what truly inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and the needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin

Expect lessons to be fun and enjoyable! I want all my students to love music. I use a variety of materials to craft customized lessons based on your interest, skill level, and musical style. Let me know what you want to learn and I can help you achieve that goal! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Harp Accordion Harmonica Lap Steel Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Lute Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Shakuhachi Oboe Bassoon English Horn Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Most recently Derek was the lead trombonist of the 2018 Disneyland All-American College Band. He has recently performed with Wayne Bergeron, Gordon Goodwin, Dave Holland, Randy Brecker, Dave Liebman, Jimmy Heath, Shaun Martin, Christian Jacob, John Beasley, Troy Roberts, Frank Greene, Brian Lynch, Jeff Jarvis, Steve Houghton, Jiggs Whigham, Sal Lozano, and John Clayton. Derek has had recent performances at Dizzys Club Coca-Cola, the Smithsonian Institute, and the New World Symphony. Read More