“Devin F. - Instructor in Piano, Guitar, and Composition/Theory/Songwriting”
Located in
San Francisco, CA, 94116
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Call us at
800-252-1508
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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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Levels: Beginner to Advanced
Ages: 5 & up
In-Home Lessons: Yes
In-Studio Lessons: Yes
Online Lessons: No
Subjects Taught In Person
Guitar, Piano, Music Recording, Music Theory, Songwriting
Education
San Francisco Conservatory of Music - Music Composition - 2007-2009 (Master's degree received) University of the Pacific - Music Composition - 2002-2006 (Bachelor's degree received)
Specialties
I am a jazz pianist and have worked with numerous students on jazz voicings, comping techniques, and improv skills. I also have a solid base of classically oriented students, from absolute beginner to advanced.
Lesson Details
I do not operate under the "one size fits all" approach to music instruction. Everyone has different tastes in music, so why should everyone have to learn it by the same methods? I make it my goal to figure out what sort of music each student feels most passionate about, and structure my lessons from there. Once the fundamentals are covered, students quickly move on to playing the sort of music that they WANT to play (not necessarily the music they may have been told they NEED to play in the
...
past).
My teaching style is relatively laid back, with a focus on discussion and interaction with the student, as opposed to me simply talking and the student listening. As a composer I am also inclined to encourage musical creativity, improvisation, and theoretical understanding. The aim here is to engage the fingers and the brain, ensuring that the student understands both intellectually and mechanically what is going on.
Devin is a composer/pianist and music instructor based out of San Francisco. He holds a Bachelors degree in Music Composition from the University of the Pacific and a Masters degree in Music Composition from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, and has had works commissioned and performed internationally. He is also an active performer and songwriter, playing piano and guitar in a wide variety of musical ensembles, from jazz trios to indie rock bands.
Devin has over a decade
...
experience in private music instruction in piano, guitar, and composition/theory/songwriting. He has established and maintained a well respected studio of students spanning all ages, musical background, and goals. He has a versatile musical background, and can accordingly offer lessons that are based on the individual students' goals. His genuine passion for the art of music ensures that his students get the most out of the experience.
In-Studio: The teacher's home studio includes a piano in the dining room area. The teacher also has an acoustic and electric guitar. The student is encouraged to bring their own instrument. Seating is also available.
In-Home: I will bring myself and whatever other materials (CDs, sheet music, etc.) may be required for the lesson. The student just needs a piano/keyboard/guitar, and a place to have the lesson.
Devin's Photos
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.
