Voice Lessons in Tara Hills, CA

Instruments: Voice

I believe EVERYONE has the ability to sing.  Some voices will go on to do big things, and some will help to build confidence in their everyday lives. I grew up with loving and compassionate teachers and family members.  It's my job as a human being to offer that same level of respect and compassion. Students are encouraged to set their own goals.  I do NOT believe it demanding students to practice on a schedule I create.  Types of students that have represented my studio in the past: * Classical Singers * Musical Theatre Performers (professional) * Community Theatre Performers * Pageant Contestants * KARAOKE Singers (MANY contest winners) * High School Students preparing for college programs and auditions (CAP-22, USC, NYU, Boston Conservatory, Carnegie Mellon, among others) * Retirees I feel that what makes me a fantastic option as a teacher is my equal love for the art of singing and performance AND for teaching, as well. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Ukulele Acoustic Guitar

I firmly believe that, as the Latin derivation of the word "Educate" would demonstrate, the key to teaching is NOT in the pouring of information into a student, but in the "Drawing Out" (E Ducere) of the student's interest and instincts... While lesson plans are very helpful as tools, I prefer to PERSONALIZE my instruction by first assessing the innate desires of the student and their initial acumen--and THEN devising a plan that COMBINES what THEY want with what i know as an educator will lead them to THEIR goals... Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Clarinet

Sometimes, my students will spend a couple weeks on a song, and sometimes they will spend five months on a song. It is all dependent on what they need to succeed. Practicing is a major concept that I focus on and therefore provide every student with weekly practice sheets as well as written monthly progress reports to their parents. In lessons with me, there is nothing we can't do and that is what I strive to show my students every week. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I had my first paying gig at 7 years old and have never looked back! Always striving to keep my repertoire relevant, I developed a great ear that allows me to learn many songs quickly. I always emphasize that in my teaching so that a student is not only playing, but actively listening too. My teaching method is very open and is tailored for each individual student. With some I do any combination of technique, theory, composition, and improvisation. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Patient, judgement free, creative and adaptive. It takes time to adjust your body to a new instrument, and there will be freedom in the way you learn, and play. We will take creative approaches, and I will adapt to the style you want to take on as far as genre's and interest. For some of my more advanced students I might want to begin teaching songwriting approaches, song structure, and transitions as well. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Conga Latin Percussion

My teaching style consists of compassion, patience and developing discipline for ones instrument little by little. Nothing is pushed, but my philosophy is "bit by bit." I want the student to be able to be challenged at the same time having fun and enjoying their instrument. I do have my own feel for each student which is completely different and varies to their ability, personality and behavior, but I am constantly tuned into my students to and what their needs and likes are. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

If you’ve tried and failed, or even if you’ve never touched a piano, Smiley can teach you. And, you’ll have fun doing it because with my easy approach to learning, you will start playing the songs you like from day one, not practicing endless scales all the time, and boring music language that would be difficult to understand the first day. With my easy learning how to play approach, you would lean your first song and be able to play it, over and over until you learn a new song to share. Read More