Piano Lessons in Orange, CA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Mallet Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

During my time teaching at Victor Litz Music, where I taught for 12 years, I was lucky to work with one student who had severe dyslexia. Though he had difficulty in a classroom setting, this students general reading and musical skills blossomed over the course of several years of instruction. Through patience and a customized approach I was able to reach him in ways that, according to his parents, no other teacher was able to do. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello

I like to incorporate 4 hands playing of fun pieces as a diversion from the solo playing plus I encourage my students to accompany me on the piano in a few 'cello pieces so that they acquire a good sense of ensemble playing. I have "musical get-togethers" where everyone plays for their family friends and other students and I will sometimes bring in a professional colleague where we will treat the students to a performance so they can see what happens when one becomes a "pro" - it is my way of saying, "good job everyone"! Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Music Keyboard

Aim for 5 to 6 days of practice EVERY week. Consistency is key, even if it is only for 15 minutes! Whatever you do, make sure you practice right after your lesson AND the day following - retention will be 90%! When practicing, aim 3 times in a row flawlessly. For longer and more challenging pieces, be sure you are practicing in small sections. A fun way to do this is through the Penny Game or cards and counters ask me how! Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I like to play audio/recordings for the students when possible, so that the student has an idea of the style, or the piece that we are studying.  This gives them something to reference to, but also gives them an aural aspect in their playing/practice habits. I also model for them constantly, so that they get more visual and aural reinforcement.  I sometimes give them short music concept/vocabulary assignments, such as learning the names of the notes on the staff, counting rhythms, meters, etc; all having to do with music theory and musical concepts that can be directly applied to their practical aspect of playing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

For beginning string student's, I use Essential Elements for Strings and Schroeder method books. Once the student has grasped the basic fundamentals and note reading, I begin to introduce solo repertoire from the Suzuki String method. Along with technical studies and solo repertoire, the student will learn scales ranging from one to four octaves. For beginning piano student's, I use the Bastein Piano series. This method is complete with a method book, solo repertoire, theory studies and scales. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Saxophone Flute Clarinet Oboe English Horn Acoustic Guitar

I use a wide variety of methods depending on the student's current ability level, musical preferences, and goals. I'm also willing to work with a method or book that a student is currently using. Generally, my students have a varying ratio of technique/scale study to work on the foundations, an etude/short piece study to help connect musical ideas and teach expression, and a solo piece that is prepared over a long period of time, most likely for a future recital. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I’ve consistently taught students in my home studio and at the Young Virtuoso Music Academy over decades. I firmly believe that regular, structured practice is essential for younger students, as it fosters steady progress and helps cultivate a genuine love for the piano. Encouraging discipline while ensuring lessons remain enjoyable is a cornerstone of my teaching philosophy. I incorporate a blend of classical repertoire and modern music into lessons, as this balance keeps students engaged and motivated to practice. Read More