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Dustin C.

Dustin C.

“Award-Winning Classically Trained Pianist and Composer Gives Lessons Throughout Orange County”

  • Located in

    Fountain Valley, CA, 92708

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Call us at

800-252-1508
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  • About
  • Photos & Videos
  • Student Reviews 2
  • Availability
  • How It Works
  • Map
  • General Info
    • TakeLessons Certified Teacher

      TakeLessons Certified Teacher

      Our rigorous hiring process requires a completed application; an interview with our professional recruiting specialists; personal and professional reference checks; and annual criminal background checks.
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    • Background Check Complete

      Criminal Background Check

      In order to ensure the safety of our students, all teachers undergo a thorough criminal background check, which includes: Social Security number trace, multi-state criminal search and a nationwide sex offender registry search.
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    • Levels: Beginner to Advanced
    • Ages: 5 & up
    • In-Home Lessons: Yes
    • In-Studio Lessons: Yes
    • Online Lessons: No
    Subjects Taught In Person
    Piano, Music Performance, Music Theory, Songwriting
    Education

    University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music - Composition - 9/2005 to 6/2007 (Master's degree received)
    Santa Clara University - Piano Performance/Music - 9/2001 to 6/2005 (Bachelor's degree received)

    Specialties
    Primarily classical along with some popular music. I also teach composition, church music and contemporary concert/modern music.
    Lesson Details
    A typical lesson will vary depending on age and skill level when starting lessons. The first lesson will at minimum assess where your natural musical sensibilities are through a few interactive musicianship activities (rhythm etc.). Depending on the student and lesson time-frame we may also cover one or more of the following: basic hand position, keyboard geography, proper way to sit at piano (posture) and introduce some simple technique building exercises for building finger strength. From ...
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    About
    I love being a teacher, but even more than just that, I thoroughly enjoy assisting others on their journey to learning and making music a personal experience for themselves.

    Having said that, here is my teaching philosophy, including what you can expect from me as a teacher and as an individual:

    PHILOSOPHY OF TEACHING

    Each student who comes to me is an individual. I customize each lesson, keeping in mind the student’s level of interest, goals, and intent. I put great care into ...
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    Equipment
    In-Studio: Korg SV-1 88-key digital keyboard with weighted RH3 hammer action. 300-watt Behringer keyboard amp.

    In-Home: Korg SV-1 88-key digital keyboard with weighted RH3 hammer action. 300-watt Behringer keyboard amp.

  • Dustin's Photos

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    Dustin's Audio Clips

    Dustin's Videos

  • Rated 5 out of 5 by 2 reviewers.
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Feedback Things are going great with our piano lessons. The lessons material Dustin selected is excellent. We had hoped for an easy and slow start and that is what we are getting. April 22, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by When I started taking lessons with Dustin, my goals were to improve my ability to play the piano, strengthen my ear, and to have a deeper understanding of music theory. Starting from our first lesson Dustin had a lesson plan already mapped out that would help me accomplish my goals. Now when I play piano, I have the ability to play and write songs with much less effort. The ear training Dustin provided has brought me to the point that I can identify chords and intervals in music clearly. With a good foundation of theory established, being assigned harmonic analysis of a musical piece is not a daunting task. Overall, I have been very happy with Dustin's style of teaching and plan to continue taking lessons with him. January 23, 2012

  • Getting Started

    Excited about jumping into music lessons? Before you can get to the guitar tabs, violin concertos, and vocal riffs, take a moment to think about the logistics of your lessons.
    Lesson Length
    There are a few things to consider when choosing between 30-, 45- or 60-minute lessons. First and foremost, take your age and experience level into account. You'll also want to think about your long- and short-term goals, and the time you'll need to reach them. Most importantly, consider how long you or your child is able to stay focused.
    Lesson Location
    Teachers have the option to display availability for in-home, in-studio, and online music lessons. In-home lessons take place at your house, in-studio lessons are conducted at the teacher's home or professional studio, and online lessons are taught over the internet via live video chat.

    Book Your Lessons Online

    Scheduling your lessons is simple and quick! The prompts will guide you through each step, from securing your lesson time to selecting the payment plan that works best for you.
    Scheduling Lessons
    After you've selected your teacher, click on the Availability tab to see which time slots and days are open.
    Booking Options
    Click the "Book Online" button to get started. Enter in your contact information, and the prompts will guide you through payments, program options, and confirming your schedule. Learn more about our booking policies.
    Payment and Billing
    We make paying for your lessons convenient and hassle-free! Prices vary based on several factors, including the city you live in, the length of your lessons, and whether you're taking them at home, in your teacher's studio, or online. Lessons are paid for in advance, which locks in your time slot.
    Signing Your Customer Agreement
    Signing your Customer Agreement and completing your Student Questionnaire is the last step! The questionnaire will give your instructor valuable information about your goals and experience level, and give him or her time to create a customized lesson plan right from the start.

    Start Your Lessons

    Now the excitement can really begin! Consider the following to ensure an exceptional first lesson...
    Prepare for Your First Lesson
    Once you've completed the last step, your teacher will call you within the next couple of days to confirm your first lesson time and provide you with directions to their studio, if needed. We also encourage you to discuss your goals and any other questions you may have.
    What To Expect
    Every teacher is different, but most first lessons begin with an assessment of where you are in your studies. At a beginner level, you might review the basics of your instrument, such as the different parts, how to hold it correctly, and proper care and maintenance. For voice, this may be the time you learn about breathing and posture.
    Reach the Goals You Set
    Every TakeLessons student is unique, and so is your lesson plan! You'll work with your instructor to develop a plan suited to meet your specific goals. Most TakeLessons instructors will also keep track of your progress with a lesson journal.

    Programs & Pricing

    The billing management tools in your online account help you keep track of your upcoming payments. And with several lesson programs available, you can select the one that fits your individual needs.
    100% Money Back Guarantee
    If you're not completely satisfied with your first lesson, we'll gladly find you another instructor or refund your entire lesson purchase.
    Can I pay when I get to the lesson?
    In order to reserve your time slot, we require payment at the time of booking, which must be at least seven days before your first lesson takes place.
    How does billing work?
    Lessons are paid for in advance, which reserves your time slot and the teacher that you want. Your specific billing date will depend on the lesson program you select.
    What forms of payment do you accept?
    At this time, we accept payments via Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. You also have the option to pay with a debit card. We do not accept payment via cash, check, or money order.
    Do you offer a free trial lesson?
    We don't offer a free trial lesson; however, we're so confident that you'll love your lessons that we offer new customers a 100% Money Back Guarantee. If you take your first lesson and decide that you don't want to continue, we'll refund the amount you paid INCLUDING the lesson you've already taken. To request the Money Back Guarantee, simply notify us within 72 hours of your first lesson.
    Do you offer any discounts?
    At this time, we don't offer any discounts. However, if you are booking two students for consecutive in-home lessons, you'll only be charged one travel fee, instead of one fee per lesson.

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