510-240-5040
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24 Years
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Here are just a few of the many teachers offering Voice lessons in Oakland . Whether you are looking for beginner guitar lessons for your kids, or are an adult wanting to improve your skills, the instructors in our network are ready to help you now!
Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Conga Latin Percussion
I have been teaching music since 2001. I was the music program director at Mission Hills Middle School and the guitar and conga teacher at St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Oakland. I have also been a music instructor with Star Power Music, COVA, Art and Soul Music Studios, Hayward Music Center and ALMA. I teach all levels of guitar and congas, as well as beginning piano, voice and drum set lessons. Read More
Instruments: Guitar Voice
I have taught guitar throughout my career, working with beginners through advanced students, teaching both finger-style and flatpick techniques as well as why the chords fit together (music theory). I like to teach lessons that move step-by-step, with each lesson building on the one before, so that the student can see the improvement as they move ahead. I recently published the guitar instruction manual "Sounding Good on One Guitar". In college my singing won scholarships and awards where I helped singers develop character for their roles in opera productions. Read More
Instruments: Voice Music
For beginning students, I typically start with the foundational elements, focusing primarily on technique and simple application into song. I slowly introduce repertoire that is appropriate and can highlight their strengths. For more advanced singers, I continue to build upon the foundational elements and guide my instructions based upon the student's interest and goals. I am building custom lesson plans and materials suitable for the student, so the plans will be unique for the individual. Read More
Instruments: Piano Voice
I really like to accommodate student's strengths but also work on their weakness as well so that they become well-rounded musicians. I often try to put myself in the student's shoes and can understand really well how learning is from their point of view which often makes me a very in-tune and versatile teacher. I have been often told from many students that i am extremely patient, encouraging and passionate, which is what they appreciate the most. Read More
Instruments: Piano Voice Ukulele
My methods of teaching cater to the students interests and strengths. I use material and songs that the students want to learn. I draw the learning from these pieces of art. I also use Suzuki, Hal Leonard and Bastien piano materials. My specialty is popular, sacred, arias, jazz and folk music. I create diversity in my lessons and keep them fun and exciting. In my lessons, I teach body mechanics, proper vocal warm ups as well as piano exercises and drills. Read More
Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Music Keyboard
I work with my students at the level and pace that they are comfortably happy. We all come to music and music lessons for different reasons. My work is to honor that space and demonstrate that making music is an option for anyone who wants it, regardless of any perceived “barriers” in place. I am currently learning and researching models of Universal Design for Learning. I apply as many techniques as possible to engage with students and make the music both cognitively appropriate and musically enjoyable. Read More
Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar
When did you decide to become a professional musician? Was it a gradual decision or was there a defining moment for you?
Ha.. Well, I think I was about 12 when my mom asked me what I wanted to do when I grew up. My answer was "I want to play guitar!". The first time I saw a band performing at a small rock club when I was 15 that feeling was fully solidified and it hasn't changed to this day.
It's been a long road of very hard work and compromise, but I wound't change a thing. I now travel the world playing my songs for others and get to meet kids as well as adults who are getting inspired by my performance, the way I was when I was 15. It's truly satisfying and fulfilling for me.
Why did you choose your primary instrument?
I had a childhood friend, who's dad had guitar laying around. I remember the moment I held it for the first time. It changed my world and I haven't gone back since.
Even though guitar has always felt like me calling, it was really just music as a whole. I loved hearing the different drum beats and directing what was going on in a song. My parents bought me a Casio keyboard when I was 10 and I used to try to figure out my favorite songs using the keyboard.
Guitar was always the most challenging instrument for me, and I think thats why I love it so much. It's a never-ending process of learning for me.
Did you have a teacher that inspired you to go into music? How did they inspire you?
I did! He is a huge reason why I am where I am today.
I still clearly remember my first lesson. I learned how to play a blues progression! I'm sure I wasn't very good, but he made me feel like I could do it. Without being pushy, he adjusted the lessons so I could at least play a part of what we were working on. He would have me bring in a song by an artist that I liked and would transcribe the song with me. Simplifying it so I could play along, all while showing me how it tied into music theory and the technical aspects of the instrument.
What advice do you have about practicing effectively?
I believe the best way to get the most from your practice is to play along with music that you love or want to learn. If it's scales, play along to a song and just keep up with the tempo. You'll be surprised how much more fun it is than playing along to the click of a metronome.
Transcribing songs is BY FAR one of the best ways to sharpen your skills. It helps develop your ear and is a great way to stay motivated since you can hear your results in real time.
I also suggest recording yourself when possible. It's tough to hear what is actually going on when you're focused on so many aspects of playing an instrument. Recording your practice can help you see what needs work and where you are excelling.
How do I know if my child is ready to start lessons?
If your child is showing interest in a particular instrument and they are old enough to physically take on the task, then it may be worth looking into. I've never been an advocate of pushing kids into playing instruments unless they themselves are wanting to play. I also believe, when it comes to guitar, kids under 8 or 9 years of age will have a tough time learning the instrument and it can hinder their interest in the future. Piano is always a good alternative in that situation.
If your child is interested in music, and wants to learn, that should be the right time to start.
When will I start to see results?
Every student is different, but usually you will see results within your first lesson. Of course this will be at a basic level but over your first couple of months you will start to feel comfortable with the instrument and begin to "connect the dots".
I strive to get as much done during the lesson so you feel accomplished and don't feel like you have a bunch homework to do. Practice will always speed up your development but should be something that you WANT to do.
If you are motivated to learn, and have a genuine love for music, great results are inevitable.
24 Years
Since We Started
41,456+
Happy Customers
10,769
Cities with Students
3,123
Teachers in Network
Trusted as the industry leader, for over 21 years the teachers in our network have been providing Voice lessons in Oakland to students of all ages and abilities.
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