Voice Lessons in Portola Valley, CA

Instruments: Voice

Since the moment I was born I love singing!!! In 1996 I graduated from Moscow Gnessin Music College with Bachelor of Arts Degree in Solo Voice and Chorus Performance. In 2002 I graduated from Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory with Master of Arts Degree in Solo Opera, Choral and Chamber Voice Performance. In 1996, I won first prize in the Moscows Bella Voce Vocal Competition and, in 1999, won their grand prize. In 2000 I received a Special Award at the International Bulbul Vocal Competition in Baku. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I believe in encouragement, fun and positive focus on the students progress at whatever speed that they progress. This makes each student look forward to each lesson with eagerness and actually accelerates their progress. I never push a student and instead encourage and edify the student and try to use their own favorite pieces of music to keep them excited about their next lesson. Acknowledging small progress is the key and I never let a student leave without celebrating their accomplishments no matter how small! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Conga Latin Percussion

He has also studied voice with Jane Sharp and piano with Ellen Wasserman.  Jake has been teaching music since 2001. He was Music Program Director at Mission Hills Middle School, in Union City, for 3 years. He was also the guitar and percussion teacher at St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Oakland. Jake has also been a music instructor with COVA, Art and Soul Music Studios, Hayward Music Center and ALMA. Over the years he has performed with musicians such as Josh Jones, Michael Aaberg, Dayna Stephens, Ambrose Akinmusere, Jonathan Finlayson, Geoff Brennan, and Ray Brown. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Clarinet

With my teachings, each student will experience a voice that will rarely get tired, won't sound hoarse and will stay healthy their whole lives. I am also a major proponent of learning music theory. All of my voice and piano students learn basic theory under my tutelage through the Keith Snell piano theory series. When I teach my students, I typically begin them on classical training. We start off learning Italian art songs, but will always have their favourite pop tune in the mix to show them how classical technique can make them a better pop singer. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Since my teaching philosophy is that every piano lesson should be fun, I tailor each lesson according to the student's age and interests. For young beginners, I choose method books that contain fun songs. I also teach music theory through story telling. For older students, I tailor each lesson according to their interests.However, I encourage them to learn Classical music, so that students develop good musicality. My goal is that all my students enjoy music for the rest of their lives. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I am very encouraging and patient as a teacher, i understand how learning is when your trying to get over the hurdles. My compassion allows me to put myself in the students shoes, which makes me a better teacher. I like to encourage the student to listen to artists and incorporate musical philosophy to inspire the student to play and achieve and experiment. I think being curious is a musician's best friend, it creates the drive to want to learn more. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Viola Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I typically perform an assessment with every individual during the first lesson. Depending on goals, I will recommend curriculum to achieve the desired results. If a classical approach is desired, I use the Alfred's Basic Piano series and the Hal Leonard method for guitar, along with scale and chord theory literature depending on the level of the student. I also teach jazz/pop accompaniment style improv playing so I print music out from various sources. Read More