Piano Lessons in Westvern, CA

Instruments: Piano

I customize lessons for each student because of different levels, goals, and tastes. For children, I usually start with a beginning method book such as Alfreds or Bastien. I introduce the fundamentals and work at the speed of the student, encouraging daily practice. I like to keep my lessons upbeat and fun so I always incorporate pieces that are recognizable to the student. If a student has a favorite tune from an artist, band, or a movie I will find them an arrangement that best suits their level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Viola Drums Conga Latin Percussion Music Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

I am motivated to keep students constantly engaged and passionate about their instrument! As a multi-instrumentalist I always play different instruments with students to give them a sense of playing in a group, which is what music should be all about! I also do my best to acknowledge the students strengths and weaknesses and take some time aside in class to speak to them about them. I believe it is important to have positive feedback but also to recognizes areas in which students can improve. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Organ Keyboard

Typically, I favor using traditional curriculum for beginning students (Alfred, Faber, Bastian). As a student progresses we typically incorporate Clemeneti sonatinas and the students favorite pop/modern songs. When a student achieves an advanced level of difficulty curriculum is purchased depending on the student's goals, college aspirations, and learning objectives. I typically administer a Classical Method of education, whether in private lessons or the classroom. It is my hope that time in my classroom encourages dialectic conversation and reaps gains in every learning situation. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music

I began teaching voice in 1998, in Vienna, Austria. The following year, I was asked to teach at the Vocal Jazz Department of Gustav Mahler Conservatory where I taught for 5 years. During that time, my private teaching studio also grew, where I coached singers, songwriters and pianists. In 2004, I moved to Los Angeles, taught piano at a private music school, accompanied a Eurythmy class at The Waldorf School in Pasadena, and eventually built my own business as a piano teacher. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello

Before the first lesson I ask the student what their goals are and what they want to do with their musical study in the future. First and foremost for both 'cellists and pianists is to learn the notes with flashcards so that the student will not be thinking of every note they need to "find" but it will be so automatic that all the student has to do is bring out their musicality through the pieces. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

Listening is the most important thing. If you don't know how your instrument sounds and how the great masters sounded when playing it, you will never develop a sound. So I highly encourage all my students to constantly listen to music and understand a little bit of the history and legacy behind their instrument. This way, they will understand where they are coming from, and where to go Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Keyboard

I am a musician that plays by ear but I know some theory as well so I try to find a happy medium when it comes to the needs of each student. So understanding each student's gift is paramount in guiding them through certain fundamentals. My philosophy has been to not tamper with the raw talent but instead, grow it. Though unorthodox, I found that tapping into the soul of passion, the student will feel a greater sense of freedom and appreciation for the craft. Read More