Cello Lessons in Ladera Ranch, CA

Instruments: Cello

I began teaching at a very young age in church for various children's program. After seeing how rewarding working with children is, I began teaching music in an elementary school's after school program. I soon expanded into teaching at the middle school level, and adults. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Fiddle French Horn Piccolo Oboe

My approach to learning an instruments is to have the students learn to play by ear first before they can start learning to read music. I find that most students are able to progress quickly because it frees them to focus on the playing the instruments rather than reading notes. I consider reading music like different subject that they learn later. Learning music is like learning to speak. First we learn to talk and then we learn to read and write. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I actively foster a collaborative learning environment by encouraging students to set personal goals, which I then assist them in achieving. Additionally, I place a strong emphasis on selecting pieces that resonate with each student's preferences, thereby enhancing motivation during practice sessions. I am proud to share that my current students have achieved notable success, including placements in state competitions and acceptance into major youth orchestras. It brings me immense joy to witness their progress and dedication to the art of cello playing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Double Bass Music Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I know everyone learns  at different speeds so making sure they are comfortable yet challenging is important to me.Being able to know when the student is enjoying and not making it a chore is a key to helping and encouraging a student learn. Watching them progress in their insturment is rewarding in of itself and nothing is more satisfying. As the student starts to see him or herself accomplish each lesson I like to praise, push and encourage to keep on. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

As a cello instructor, my students have been accepted into several top music programs including the University of North Texas, the University of Houston, Texas Tech University, Sam Houston State University, and the University of Texas at Arlington. Several have gone on to become teachers themselves. I have taught students of all age levels and experience, from beginners both young and old, to conservatory level; from basic setup and posture, to advanced left hand and bowing technique. 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 Guitar Violin Cello Viola Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Electric Violin Double Bass Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Progress is not always easy when learning to play a new instrument. Everyone learns at there own pace, and with each lessons I will set attainable goals for the student. it is best when students have varying difficulties of material within their material in order to provide opportunity for satisfaction despite whatever struggles they may have. I encourage daily practice, even if only for small amounts of time. Effective practice requires some level of independence, and I focus a lot our time on the art of practicing, and how to focus your attention in order to get the best out of your practice time. Read More