Voice Lessons in Terminal Island, CA

Instruments: Voice

I always begin by figuring out how I can best teach a student by asking them their interests and goals for singing; whether they want to sing jazz or provide vocals for their rock band, or learn to sing classically, etc. For all students who are atleast in their teens or older, I begin by describing how singing works and talk about the function of the body in singing. I usually use pictures from anatomy books to help point out the key organs and muscle groups that are engaged in healthy singing, so as to give a visual aid of what we are working to condition for singing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin

For beginning piano students, I love using Alfred lesson books. I like focusing on scales and using proper technique. For violin, I like using Suzuki, but I dont use Suzuki method. Focus is on scales and simple solo rep. I encourage composition at all ages and love finding a system that works for the individual student. Regular practice is encouraged. I am big on positive reinforcement and will be my students biggest cheerleader, even when I need to get firm about techniques. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Flute Drums Bass Guitar Organ Electric Violin Double Bass

I have an interactive yet focused style of teaching. I can(but don't recommend) to use the Suzuki method. I feel that all aspects related to the instruments weigh much importance in teaching the student. However, with the Suzuki method, the student's primary focus is to learn pieces rapidly and climb the level of difficulty as fast as possible. This prevents him/her to fully understand and analyze the piece and lesson and it can also turn the student away from pursuing the instrument further.  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: Piano Voice

I have taught many students in public schools and in private lessons for many years. The various subjects I taught included general music, choir, piano, band, orchestra, drama and English. I served as Music Department Chairman for many years.The students performed in assemblies, festivals,civic and cultural events, musical plays, andconcerts.I alsohave a background in teaching church choirs. I can teach hymns, anthems, spirituals, gospels and praise songs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Cello

Creative lesson planing, student motivation and individualized approach are the most notable characteristics of my teaching style. I always try to find out what inspire my students and what they love and enjoy about music. I think the most important for the teacher is to develop a passion for music in his students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I'm a passionate instructor who loves working with students from all levels. However, my specialty lies in teaching advanced piano students. Due to the wide variety of experience in the piano teaching career, I have had the privilege of working with advanced piano students. I have had more than 10 years of teaching piano experience ranging from working with a privately owned Montessori school in Buena Park, CA. to working for a Music School, Brea. Read More