Flute Lessons in Orangevale, CA

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Piccolo Music

I incorporate method books into all of my lessons, as well as any technique books that are appropriate for each specific student. The method books that I begin with are Essential Elements, the I Recommend series, Standard of Excellence, and Tradition of Excellence. The technique books depend on the specific instrument and ability level. I feel that it is very important to get every student playing actual sheet music as soon as possible, regardless of skill level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute

I find that when teaching just reading a book and rote playing isn't enough. I like to use scales, singing, and creative composition to get my students to think outside of the box and learn to independently create music while learning theory basics. I like to help my students be one of a kind and be in love with the music that they are creating...if they don't look forward to coming to class again, then I know I haven't done my job fully. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute

In addition to working with standard repertoire and method books, I devise my own exercises to help with breath control, tone production, rhythm, aural skills, and other topics. I dedicate particular time and attention to the areas where I believe each individual student can benefit the most (e.g., tone quality, counting, etc.). For young students, I like to incorporate music games and improvisation into my teaching, both of which help the student develop essential musical skills in a fun, relaxed way. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Piccolo Music Keyboard

Teaching is very new to me. For beginning students I would start with a Hal Leonard's Essential Elements book. Then when the student progresses the fundamentals I will start to introduce solo pieces for recital performance. For adults I will ask them what would be fun for them to play and make my lesson plans off of that to keep them engaged and having fun no matter what level they are. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I think we all learn best when having fun, so I keep things light. For younger folks, I encourage practicing daily, but with a light touch. For older musicians, you decide how much you want to practice and progress. I emphasize comfort while playing and I have many tools and ideas to help with that. Regular lessons help so much with motivation. If you are interested in jazz improvisation, I have a some tested ideas that work. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute

Various styles: Big Band Jazz, R B/Gospel, Salsa, pop rock, ska circus pit band. Also extensive session work in Los Angeles; soundtrack and album projects. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Synthesizer Music

Teaching Philosophy I believe that a students passion for learning music begins with the instructors passion for teaching music. Even after 20 years, I find that I enjoy working with students as much today as my first year teaching. What fuels this passion, for me, is to constantly expand what I teach, and improve the way in which I teach it. This includes things like finding new songs/styles to explore, incorporating new technologies in the lesson (computer software, mp3 background tracks), teaching not only the notes on the page, but also the history behind the music and continually fine-tuning my teaching style to address the individual learning style of each student. Read More