Music Lessons in Alameda, CA

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

I have worked with countless students in any level, including students as young as 3, students as old as 60+, and students with special needs. Under my flexible and unique way of teaching, my students acquire not only piano skills, but also critical thinking skills, analytic skills, independence, sensibility, and enthusiasm to express deep human emotions. Regarded as one of the most dedicated, creative, diligent, artistic, and knowledgeable pianists by many students' parents and college professors, I see teaching as not only a great pleasure and joy of my life, but also my responsibility - music is one of the most noble forms of communication, and it gives life such a layer of meaning that everyone deserves such opportunity to discover and explore in the realm of music. Read More

Instruments: Viola

I really enjoy teaching and working with people! My goal is to see each student learn at their own pace, and develop a love for music. My approach is to set realistic goals at each lesson, so that students can achieve, and have their achievements acknowledged, so they feel excited to progress and learn more. Along with basic technique, the lesson will focus on the fun and enjoyment of music, trying to learn what inspires each student, along with setting realistic challenges for each student, to work hard to get to the next level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Music Keyboard

For most of my beginning piano students, I use the piano adventures series. They offer a clear and well paced curriculum with numerous supplemental resources in a variety of styles. For beginning music theory, I use the Berklee School of Music texts or the Benward and Saker textbooks as well as many videos and other resources to explore musical concepts. For singing, I use a variety of sight singing books, all depending on the age and experience of the student. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I'm a passionate professional performer and teacher with extensive real world music industry experience. Performing with various artists from all differing genres, both live performance and on records, yields results with my students. I give my students all the necessary keys needed to succeed on their instrument. Having been a major player on projects with two Grammy nominated artists (John Lee Hooker, Jr and Phil Driscoll) and having performed live with Billy Joel and Paul Simon has given me a different perspective on what is needed to be successful. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

My only teaching philosophy is simple-- all learning comes from the student, not the teacher. If the student isn't engaged and having fun, no amount of teaching will have an effect! I like to tailor specific exercises to my students that most fundamental books do not have, giving them a level of individual attention that encourages fast, specific improvement. Students of mine typically leave lessons with a personalized set of exercises to help them achieve their goals. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass

The approach to the violin with the orthodox method can be particularly frustrating. The technique is important but equally important is to develop the ability and taste of playing together right away. For this reason, regardless of the styles you want to deepen, I play as much as possible together with the student whether it is classical duets, folk songs or jazz. For the more advanced students a part of the study of the accompaniment is reserved as well as for soloists Calibrating the objectives based on the abilities of the age and the talent of the students is an attention that can avoid frustrations and lead everyone to the common goal of the musicians: to express and continuously improve. Read More