Music Lessons in Sonoma, CA

Instruments: Drums

I emphasize technique for beginning students. I call attention to hand and finger control, and offer a number of exercises develop the muscles needed to play fluidly. I teach a few levels of the rudiments, and show students the opening pages of the famous George Stone book, Stick Control for the Modern Drummer. From there, I work with students on drum rolls, groves and fills. My approach to drumming is to be as innovative as possible. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Trombone Drums Ukulele Euphonium French Horn Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I like to emphasize fundamentals, especially if a student is just beginning. I believe a strong foundation makes it easier as they progress. For all instruments I always have my students prepare both technical exercises and solo material. I always emphasize historical context to bring the music to life. I also like to teach the music theory side of music, explaining chords, sequences and progressions. I can inform students how to improvise in jazz, as well as play at the level required for symphonic performance. Read More

Instruments: Drums Ukulele

2004-2007 marched world championships in WGI with Black Knights and Pulse Percussion 2006 Marched the Rose Parade as a tenor drummer. 2015 - Awarded a plaque from Los Angeles City Counsel for teaching Madison Middle School, becoming State Champs. 2016-2018 Taught Madison Middle School drumline and got them to be 4-peat State Champs. Ive written a lot of original music materials for students as well and many of my past students graduated becoming a top honor in their class. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium

I really value input from all of my students no matter what age. This keeps our lessons fun and challenging. It is very important that each student sets their own goals to reach at the end of each lesson to achieve for the next week. I am a big advocate of positive reinforcement. For my younger trumpeters I like to use stickers and to play fun duets whenever they achieve their goals. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass

I have infinite amounts of patience, which is the most important thing when teaching music. I adore teaching and playing music, and all of my students can sense this immediately, rather rapidly absorbing my love for the instrument and becoming passionate about it themselves. I give students realistic goals I know they can meet each week, and strongly recognize their achievements. I also ask the student many questions to learn what type of music they like best, what truly inspires them, so I can mold each lesson around these interests and truly engage him or her. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it is important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

I have always found joy in teaching. For years, I've been sharing my knowledge with friends without charging. It all began by showing them riffs from our favorite bands and even some I had created. Gradually, I transitioned to teaching them broader musical concepts and guiding them in writing music across different genres. As word spread, my friends started recommending others to me, and I officially began teaching during my college years. Read More