Music Lessons in South San Gabriel, CA

Instruments: Piano Voice Music

My approach to teaching is to meet the students where they are. I often ask them to write a list of their 'top ten favourite songs' and also encourage them to listen to music. I want to know what moves them and inspires them, so I can adapt my instruction to their needs. I encourage consistency in practising above quantity (hours spent), as a little bit every day goes a long way. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium Tuba

For students learning their first instrument and learning how to read music, I like to spend the majority of the time buzzing on the mouthpiece, breathing, as well as studying and playing easy warm ups such as Remingtons. This way students can build their fundamentals for their instrument at the same time they are developing better reading skills. For more advanced beginners I have them read easy etudes to develop their reading and overall musicianship. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga

During college, a woman and her son saw a Jazz combo show I played drum set in and after the set, She asked me if I would teach her son. I agreed. I taught her son for a year. Sadly, they moved away but the word spread and the next year I had two more students. It contuied that way as I progressed in college my teaching improved. When I moved to California in 1997, I had seven students to teach on the weekends. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Accordion French Horn Music Keyboard

I find that metaphors using familiar things and processes, like the laws of nature and physics we see everyday, can help students grasp concepts that require marrying physical movements with mental flexibility. Perhaps we're discussing articulations and you're having trouble understanding stylistically how to approach and execute staccato with legato over it. We could turn to methods like the Breathing Gym to practice a physical manifestation of how that articulation should sound. Read More

Instruments: Piano

It not only soothes me but after I play a few songs, I feel a whole lot better and am able to tackle on my next task. You know how everyone needs a getaway from time to time? Piano has always been my getaway. Unfortunately, it is too big for me to carry around but luckily, I have one in my bedroom that I can walk over to whenever I need it most. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Electric Violin

I have taught in the classroom and privately for over 10 years. When students start on their instrument I encourage the parents to be part of the lesson so they can help and encourage practicing at home. When the students are at a beginning stage I have them practice about 20-30 minutes a day. At the beginning the student is getting adjusted to the instrument and I don't want to push them too much. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Lessons are custom depending on student goals and desired musical styles. Lessons begin at the piano with vocal warm-ups and vocalises for proper singing technique, followed by vocal exercises focusing on areas in need of strengthening. Time is also spent on breath work, posture, acting, language pronunciation and choreography, depending on the song/project. This is followed by working on pieces of music selected by both the student and I, tailored to the students needs and goals. Read More