Music Lessons in Newport Coast, CA

Instruments: Cello

For beginning students, I like to use the Suzuki Cello School books, approximately up to book 6. Then, I move to solo repertoire that is appropriate for the student and their musical goals. I like to use the Ivan Galamian Scale System for Violoncello. I also use the Yampolsky Violoncello technique book. For more technique exercises, I use the Feuillard Daily Exercises and assign exercises based on where the student needs improvement. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I started studying at the age of 7 and never looked back. I'm about to graduate with my degree in vocal performance and have already completed my pedagogy requirements. I have 4 years of teaching experience, and 13+ years of performing experience. I primarily perform opera, however I have extensive experience in musical theater, solo jazz and in vocal jazz ensembles, as well as concert and chamber choirs. I am comfortable teaching any of these styles, though of course when it comes to opera younger students will start with art song and other classical styles that are more suited to the less mature voice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute

In my 30 years of teaching experience, and being exposed to many methods, I chose to mix and match them to each student's ability and disposition. Each student is different with variety of expectations, abilities and interests, so as I get to know them, I try to best cater to their needs and find ways for them to learn while growing and improving on every level, not just musically. Engaging students in variety of ways of learning (visual, auditory, etc), I also care of their personal stories, which I find brings great connection and makes learning much more fun for my students as they feel heard. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Ukulele Recorder Double Bass Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Teaching is a journey of discovery, growth, and mutual inspiration. My approach is centered on creating an environment where learning becomes an exciting exploration rather than a mere instruction. I view myself as a guide, nurturing the innate curiosity and talents of my students while providing them with the tools and knowledge they need to flourish in their musical pursuits. My teaching approach is characterized by fostering a personalized connection with each student, nurturing their passion for music, and building a strong foundational understanding. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Mandolin Keyboard

I also have great expertise working with retired active senior citizens. I headed up the gerontology arts division for Orange Coast College/Coastline College and taught music/acting at active senior sites for over 14 years. Many of my current students are retired seniors. I have written several text books on jazz theory, jazz piano, jazz vocal and musicology subjects that are used by schools and universities. As a professor of University of West London: London College of Music (US rep), I am able to offer internationally accredited music performance grades (1-8) for piano (classical, jazz pop), digital keyboard (pop, music industry), voice (musical theatre, opera/classical, pop, rock, jazz). Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion

I primarily use original material when I teach, but occasionally Ill work from standard method books such as Stick Control, Master Studies, and Syncopation, or assign pages from more recent books like John Rileys The Art of Bop Drumming. Ill also pull out books specifically for sight reading such as Anthony Cirones Portraits in Rhythm. For beginning and intermediate students I focus on fundamental technique, basic sight reading skills, and drum set playing (independence/coordination of the limbs, relaxation and balance, time and groove, fills and solos, introduction of musical styles, etc.) For advanced students I get into more conceptual and creative aspects of playing the drums, but I also introduce the Spivack/Wilson technique which I learned during my studies with Murray Spivack and Richard Wilson in the 1980s [check out the 4-part series featured in Modern Drummer magazine in 2011-2012]. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My general approach to teaching is to mold my lesson plan around the students needs and wants, and it's extremely important that our lessons are fun for the student! This is especially true for children; if playing an instrument becomes "work"/"homework" they will probably lose interest pretty quickly. It's important to try to avoid that mindset, and keep it fun so that the student WANTS to pick up their instrument and play everyday. Read More