Music Lessons in Elverta, CA

Instruments: Violin Viola Music

My teaching experience started during my undergraduate studies at Sacramento State University. I was teaching at the String Project program at Sac State University, where I was coaching string ensemble classes, basic knowledge of music theory and private violin/viola lessons. During my Graduate studies at San Francisco Conservatory I was involved in the internship program teaching at George Washington High School; coaching orchestra excerpts to a string players, and private lessons. Read More

Instruments: Violin

My teaching style is mainly to be patient. It should be understood that every grows at their own pace. I think the very first lesson would require me to hear the student play and decide on a case by case basis on a plan that is best for them. As the student progresses with their learning, it is also important to observe the student and respond to their needs. I will for all students emphasize how grip. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

Smiley has studied piano since the age of 5 and has been fortunate to study with the Carl Wheeler the musician who wrote and played for Tony Toni tone, as well as Beyonce and high profile headliners. Smiley has played for celebrity singers including Carlos Santana, comedian Tommy Davidson, as well as John Witherspoon. He a Degree in music from the University of Berklee, and has taught piano and voice since 2005. he enjoys working with people and uses his patience and perceptiveness to communicate music to others. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Ukulele Keyboard

My teaching style nurtures the students love of the instrument while tossing in technical details along the way! Especially when beginning a new instrument, acknowledging goals that a student has, or songs they would like to learn to perform is essential to helping that initial eagerness to continue throughout lessons, and to help the student feel accomplished in their instrument. Together, the student and I will set realistic goals for them in their instrument to complete songs, technical aspects, warm ups, etc. and I will help them to achieve those goals. Read More

Instruments: Drums

At age 13 years old, I started playing the drums, first with private instructions with some of the greatest drummers in New York City such as Gene Krupa, Cozy Cole, and Rufus Bede Jones. I played in High school Band, University of California Jazz ensemble. I toured at many schools. I was on the same teaching staff with Tony Williams, Steve Smith and David Garibaldi. I teach all styles of drumming. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar

For beginning to intermediate guitar players, I would suggest learning some of the fundamentals and basics from Hal Leonard's Guitar Method Complete Edition - Books 1 2 and 3 (bound together in one volume). As the student develops a better understanding of music and a better ability to play it, I would then work on finding them a piece of music that challenges their knowledge and technique, yet also a piece of music that they would want to play, and that they would be passionate about learning. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Bass Guitar Euphonium French Horn Tuba Music

My teaching philosophy is to always continue moving forward. Let's stay focused and do the best we can, but never dwell on one thing for too long! Success comes from a variety of avenues, notably discipline (scheduling your time) and passion (enjoying the process of learning!). Learning and performing music is inherently difficult, but I am here to help guide you so that the process is fun and manageable! As Bruce Lee once said, "It takes a lifetime to know one's self", so let's work hard to discover what we are capable of and enjoy the journey! Read More