Music Lessons in Van Nuys, CA

Instruments: Piano Clarinet

I began teaching as early as 2003, while in high school on clarinet. I continued to teach during college as a voice coach, and have been teaching piano, music theory and music composition to this date. I have worked with both children and adults, in classrooms and one on one. One of the things that distinguishes me from other teachers is how I tailor my program for each student, because everyone learns differently and has different strengths and talents. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I can provide solid foundations for new musicians and detail-oriented polishing for advanced players. For those beginning an instrument with me, I draw from Rubank or Essential Elements methods and customize my lesson plan based on the needs and interests of the student. For students pursuing jazz, I use The Goldman Method, which provides a systematic and easy to follow program that quickly produces results. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I strive to create a safe space for my students where they can dive into their material and feel empowered through learning and practicing. Some weeks a piano student might complete the material rapidly and some weeks, they may want to go slower, taking their time, therefore they excel at their own comfort level and don't feel as though there is a race. With voice, I prefer to let the student pick songs that they enjoy singing and speak to their own heart. Read More

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar

In my experience as a teacher, I have worked on a personal level with my students encouraging regular practice. It's important to get to know the student and keep track of their evolution. I notice that the students who advance the most are the ones who experience playing with other people. Possibly one of the best ways to learn music is being in a band. I encourage my students to have projects like this because it helps them understand quickly what music is all about. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I feel a sense of accomplishment when I see one of my students gain an appreciation and passion for music. Because of this I think it is important that every student advances at their own speed. I encourage this by setting reachable goals for my students each lesson. My students realizing their accomplishments helps ignite their want to progress and their willingness to learn more. By trying to figure out what inspires my student, I can successfully design my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Trombone

I received my Bachelor's in Jazz Studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2006. Since then I performed with Who's Bad: The Ultimate Michael Jackson Tribute Band, and my own hip-hop/soul band The Urban Sophisticates. I've worked with Ellis Marsalis, Talib Kweli, Arrested Development, Byron Stripling, Fred Wesley, Delfeayo Marsalis, Wallace Roney, Jimmy Cobb, and Robin Eubanks. I have performed on four continents, and on cruise ships world wide with numerous different ensembles. Read More