Piano Lessons in Castro Valley, CA

Instruments: Guitar Voice Ukulele Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

If you play more than one instrument, how did you decide to start playing the second? (Or 3rd, 4th, 5th, etc)!
My voice was my first musical instrument technically although I didn't actually start studying voice until my adult years. I began playing guitar because I had access to a guitar which initially belonged to my brother. When he switched to bass I began trying to teach myself guitar. Luckily, I loved punk rock music which I was able to play. After years of playing guitar I attended a party on the beach. I brought my guitar to jam. There were several ukulele players at the party. After trading to a ukulele I found that it was a fun and easy instrument to play. I got hooked on the ukulele and often bring a ukulele with me when I go to the beach.

Does music run in your family? Tell us a little about your musical family members.
Although my parents were not professional musicians both of them loved music. Both my parents were born in New Orleans and understood the value of music. My Mother played piano, but she didn't have a lot of time to play because she worked full time and had four children. However, when she did play we were always surprised by her ability. Although she was not a professional singer people always asked her to sing. She had a great voice and was never shy about singing. My father exposed us to a huge variety of music from his extensive record collection. Everything from Neville Brothers to Earth Wind and Fire.

When did you decide to become a professional musician? Was it a gradual decision or was there a defining moment for you?
I don't remember one particular moment when I decided I wanted to become a musician. However, I do remember having a conversation with my high school guidance counselor about my interest in the psychology of music. At that time I did not consider myself a musician but more of a music enthusiast. During my high school years I was not considered a great singer. I didn't learn to play guitar until after i graduated from high school. I just love music and over the years i have gained the knowledge and skills to be a professional musician.

What is your favorite style/genre of music to play and why?
i grew up listening to a variety of musical genres such as jazz, rock, soul, funk, blues, R&B, reggae and Afro-Cuban music. I can honestly say that I do not have a favorite style to play because it changes with my mood. I really enjoy playing blues but there are other times when I feel strongly about playing reggae. I really enjoy playing classic jazz tunes by Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong. There are other times when I enjoy rocking out playing songs by Jimmy Hendrix or the Beatles. I currently play in a jazz act, classic rock band, and an acoustic rock/reggae duo.

If you weren't a musician what do you think you'd be doing instead?
If a hadn't become a musician and music therapist I probably would have pursued a career as a mental health practitioner such as a psychotherapist, grief counselor or rehab counselor. Initially I majored in psychology when I first pursued higher education. However as I studied psychology I became more aware of how music could be used in therapy to help individuals gain insight into self. I began to read about music therapy and realized the power of music. If I had become a psychotherapist or grief counselor I would have used music as a therapeutic tool.

What is your dream piece to perform and why?
Although difficult to narrow down to one piece, at this time one song pops into mind. "Feeling Good" by Nina Simone. When I sing this song I feel like I am the strongest, most powerful woman in the world. I am empowered by the reality that I can make a positive impact on the world by using my voice and guitar. I am reminded of the spiritual beauty of nature and being part of nature. I am a song writer and feel strongly about performing my original songs. However when I sing "Feeling Good" I express myself so thoroughly that I feel like I wrote the song myself.

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