Music Lessons in Aiea, HI

Instruments: Piano Trumpet

I use a broad amount of materials that I tailor to each individual student. Trumpet students use a variety of materials from the Arban Book, H. L. Clarks "Technical Studies," Max Schlossberg's "Daily Drills and Technical Studies" and a variety of solo and duet books. It is important that each student learns at a speed suited to them and each lesson is personalized so the student is challenged to grow but not overwhelmed. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Acoustic Guitar

As I may have mentioned once or twice... Students are at the heart of my teaching process. Everyone has their own goals, their own tastes, their own learning process, their own challenges. If a teacher does not tailor his/her approach to the student in front of them, then an opportunity is being missed. Students should feel involved and invested in the process, and feel that it is serving them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My approach varies depending on the student.  For younger students I usually take a very systematic step by step approach using method books.  If the student already knows what they want to learn and has specific goals I try to tailor to their needs. For guitar students who are starting from scratch I usually begin with the Hal Leonard Guitar method book or give them the option to use a classical method book if they're really interested in classical guitar. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I was hired by Ellen Masaki, owner of the Ellen Masaki School of Music while I was in college. I taught there for almost 10 years before I opened my own home studio, from which I have been teaching for over 25 years. I use a variety of motivational strategies to encourage consistent practice as it it the foundation of success. My students take great pride in their achievements, especially those that are challenging. Read More

Instruments: Cello

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music. Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I feel that it is very important to be supportive and encouraging to each student and to verbally acknowledge their accomplishments. If a student expresses a desire to learn a certain technique or style of music, I will support that desire with my best effort and within my abilities. Read More

Instruments: Drums

When teaching children or beginners I like to start out by introducing the 26 drum rudiments. I'll then introduce beginner drum books such as Joel Rothman's Basic Drumming. These important tools will set the stage for success in drumming. I'll also introduce music styles and beats they might not be familiar with. The goal is to introduce as many different music styles and beats as possible. For adults and intermediate to advanced players, we will work out of Charlie Wilcoxon's "The All-American Drummer" for snare drum solo's and Gary Chester's "The New Breed" for challenging drum beat exercises. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

Beginner students start off by progressing through a method book series like Piano Adventures or Alfred Premier. These books, along with supplementary materials, help the student to learn how to read music and become more comfortable with the piano. Along the way, students will develop their music theory knowledge and gradually become more fluent with their scales, chords, and rhythm. By doing so, they are building their musicality and technique. Read More