Violin Lessons in San Fernando, CA

Instruments: Violin Viola

Creating a non-judgemental atmosphere, where students are free to experiment, make mistakes, and try again, is crucial for learning an instrument such as the violin. With this instrument, repeptition is key to learning. I also strive to set very clear, manageble goals, so students feel a sense of accomplishment at each stage. This sense of accomplishment is motivating to the student as well as the teacher! I often let students have a choice of which solo piece they get to play, as I have witnessed many past students rise to the ocassional to learn a piece they are passionate about! 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

Derek is most known for his association with the John Daversa Big Band. Derek has had the pleasure of meeting and performing with many of his musical heroes. He has recorded live and studio albums with Arturo Sandoval, Jon Faddis, John Fedchock, James Morrison, Greg Gisbert, Roger Ingram, Paul Stephens, Scott Englebright, Donny Dyess, the Tastee Bros, Bernard Wright, Gene Coye, Steve Reid, Kate Reid, Melvin Butler, Ed Calle, Richard Todd, Mike Brignola, Alex Norris, Dante Luciani, John Hart, Martin Bejerano, Chuck Bergeron, Rick Margitza, and appears on the Gary Lindsay album "Are We Still Dreaming" with the South Florida Jazz Orchestra. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I have taught violin since the year 2011. My students have primarily been between the ages of 10-16 with the exception of one student being in her 40's. I have taught beginners to advanced beginners, and most of my students have to this point hired me to train for a particular upcoming audition. During the years of teaching, I have found that I truly enjoy watching students obtain the gift of being able to play music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Saxophone Flute Clarinet Oboe English Horn Acoustic Guitar

I use a wide variety of methods depending on the student's current ability level, musical preferences, and goals. I'm also willing to work with a method or book that a student is currently using. Generally, my students have a varying ratio of technique/scale study to work on the foundations, an etude/short piece study to help connect musical ideas and teach expression, and a solo piece that is prepared over a long period of time, most likely for a future recital. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle

As a student I had many teachers who made me achieve at their pace and with their understanding of what the violin required. Ultimately the classical route did not give me enough freedom to play the way I wanted to. In my work as a teacher I have found that the pursuit of an instrument, though hard work, should fundamentally be enjoyable for the student. Whether it is finding the music that resonates deeply with you, or constructing practice assignments that are clear and achievable within a week, I want to connect with each student I teach and help them to find a regular rhythm in their lessons that keeps them feeling productive. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I have been teaching private lessons for several years, as well as being on the faculty of a non-profit music school for 5 years after graduating from University. I've found that no matter what the setting, making a good connection with the student is crucial in building a strong teacher-student relationship. My lessons are a balance of building proper technique and enjoying fun music from my always-growing library. I tailor the lesson repertoire to what works best for my student so they can play the music they feel truly passionate about. Read More