Violin Lessons in Van Nuys, CA

Instruments: Violin Viola

I think it is important to have a strong foundation when you're learning to play an instrument. And what is absolutely essential is scales. If you can play scales well, then you're off to a good start! You may very well be able to learn new music faster and play the pieces better! However, I do not believe that scales should dominate the lesson because that is not fun for the student or the teacher. 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

Instruments: Violin

I start by setting realistic goals for each lesson, but I will not rush past something just to be able to finish the lesson plan I had written out for the day. The core fundamentals of violin are so important and believe that everything deserves adequate attention. Quality over quantity. I believe in giving student specific compliments, but children can tell when you are not being genuine, so I make sure to be thoughtful when giving them. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I was born and raised in New York City. All my life I have been passionate about the arts and music is certainly one of my greatest passions. I started studying classical violin at the age of 6 at the Third Street Music school in New York. (studied under the Suzuki method). Along my travels as a student I have also attended music camps such as Kinhaven and Interlochen and was a member of the New York Youth Symphony during my senior year in high school. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Saxophone Bass Guitar Organ Acoustic Guitar

To be honest, I never had a formal teaching experience as a music teacher since it is more like a hobby to me. I pursued a different career but music has always been part of my life and my burning passion for it never ceased. When I was a kid, I performed couple of piano recitals, and after several years, I eventually made my mom proud by playing the piano/organ in our church. Read More

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 Voice Violin

I am an accomplished, focused, and professional music teacher with over 7 years of teaching experience. In 2013, I graduated from the University of California, San Diego with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Composition, cum laude. I am currently working on my Master of Music degree at The Bob Cole Conservatory at California State University, Long Beach. My goal is to have students enjoy their lessons and love music.I also belong to a number of professional organizations including: The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), The Music Teachers National Association (MTNA), and The Music Teachers Association of California (MTAC). Read More