Discovery Bay, CA Music Theory Lessons

d me to incorporate characteristics from both in my approach to teaching, and in showing it is very cool to be a male in music!

Education:
Private Vocal Student 1994-2006
Bachelor's of Music in Vocal Performance, Hastings College 2000-2006 (interrupted due to military)

Areas of Instruction:
Piano-Beginner/Intermediate
Guitar-Beginner/Intermediate
Music Theory-General/Intermediate Voice-Beginner/Intermediate/Professional

*** Lesson Details ***
Lesson Details:
The first few lessons for instrumental instruction will be familiarization. The first several lessons, and throughout all lessons for voice, we will learn about the bodies connection to the voice and the mechanics behind it.

After we are familiar with each other and our instruments of choice, we will begin on some basic music knowledge (theory). Super beginning for the youngsters, and more formal if you are an older student.

After approximately 3-6 months, depending on how much you practice, we will begin working on actual songs, and plugging in what we have learned so far into the songs, and using that material to advance in our learning.

I am excited to work with you!! Thank you!

*** Studio Equipment ***
1888 Lester Upright piano

*** Specialties ***
Methods used for instruction depend on the student. I have found what works for one may not work for all. However, I approach the vocal process from the basics of breathing combined with resonation points, and the modifications of such points based off of pitch, tone, and volume requirements. I instruct on personal voice points, meaning identify those parts where resonation lacks, and finding the right modifiers to safely approach those points, in an attempt to create an effortless sound which is safe to recreate every time.

Beginning, should the student not have any music theory knowledge, basic instruction will be presented. It is my opinion that a foundation in theory knowledge must be present to fully comprehend and utilize the vocal instruction.

hile helping a student accomplish his/her musical goals. I am comfortable teaching the following genres: rock, blues, classical, reggae, jazz and country

e also been hired as a soloist at various local churches.

I was a faculty member at Orange County School of the Arts, for almost a decade, where I taught Music Theory, Music History, and Musicianship.

As a member of Belle Musique, a hand bell trio, I played and sung for weddings, funerals, and private parties.

I got to wail as the lead singer of Pine Street Band singing classic covers from CCR to Blondie to Tom Petty.

In addition, I sing and play in a band, Wheel House, where we create a unique blend of rock, blues, and funk.

It is my belief that it is never too late to follow your passion, but you have to find what really makes you happy and fulfilled!

*** Lesson Details ***
I teach students according to their own goals and interests. However, I must include elements that are vital in the musical world whether the student is a hobbyist or leaning toward a professional career. My instrumentalists will learn all aspects of theory including rhythm, basic theory, and musicianship. My singers will learn about breath, anatomy, alignment, and performance. This is in addition to learning fundamental repertoire.

I have very high expectations for my students and do my best to motivate and challenge them, bringing out the natural musician. I am goofy but demanding and always develop a strong and trusting relationship with each and every student.

*** Studio Equipment ***
In home music studio with upright piano, electric piano, recording equipment, drum set, amps, guitars, bass, and seating for parents.

*** Specialties ***
Specialize vocally in opera, rock, funk, musical theater.

n explain musical theory and concepts many different ways to make sure you understand them. I am very friendly and patient.

Sometimes I might inject humor into the learning process to make it an enjoyable learning experience, and to help you remember the important things.
I love the satisfaction of seeing my students grow musically proficient and and seeing the JOY that it brings them. Many of my students have gone on to become professional. I am well-versed and well-equipped to teach many styles: Rock (including all sub-genres...Tribal Ambient Doom neo Punk, etc), Pop, Blues, Jazz, Alternative, Country, R& B, New Age, Ambient, Electronic, Metal (and a few plastics and wood as well).

*** Lesson Details ***
I will develop a personal lesson plan for each individual student. During your lessons, I might cover topics ranging from learning how to play, starting from the basics (if you are a beginner), to choosing music that will inspire you on your level, to improving your technique, ear-training, music reading (if that's what you'd like), reading and understanding tabs (if that's what you'd like), knowing what it is that makes certain chords and notes sound good together for writing your own music, as well as guitar maintenance and adjustments, getting a good tone, amplifier settings, effect pedals (settings & placing them in the most effective order), recording tips, and where to get a decent pizza.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Living Room or Studio, both very comfortable. Amplifiers, guitars, effects pedals, bass, ukulele, balalaika, drum set, PA system and recording equipment.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide guitar, bass, or ukulele and amplifier when necessary, teaching tools. The student provides their guitar and paperwork I give them.

*** Specialties ***
Teach note reading using Alfred's New Guitar course. Ear Training, Genres: Rock, Pop, Blues, Jazz, Alternative, Punk, Metal, Folk, Country, Hip Hop, Funk, R& B, New Age, Ambient.

I currently have 5 albums out under my name. My music is on a major new age compilation, and has been played on the radio in several countries, and several internet radio programs. I have played on other people's albums...some of which get major radio airplay in Europe.

ue-Afro-Haitian-Afro-Cuban and Modern
African drumming and percussion: Jembe and shekere with song and folklore.

erience has been playing in the worship band at my church for the past several years. I enjoy teaching guitar and sharing what I’ve learned over the years of playing. We all never stop being students and learning new things on our instrument.

*** Lesson Details ***
Lessons are provided in a comfortable, fun environment and are private and on a weekly basis. Initially the student will complete a questionnaire before the first lesson to allow me to better understand what experiences the student has had with the guitar and with music in general. Additionally, I try to find out what groups and guitarists he or she likes. Finally, discuss what goals the student has or put another way, what he or she wants to do with the guitar. When we have completed the first lesson, I will better understand what the student’s playing level is and be able to provide a lesson plan based on that level and current experience. The lessons are tailored to each student’s capability and desire to play/practice. The lessons will be challenging but not “out of reach”. The student will feel successful and see the difference in playing within a relatively short time.

I will assess the student’s progress each week, by reviewing the previous week’s work. Based on the student’s progress, I will advance to new material or stay within the same material. The student and I will agree on how much time the student will devote to practicing each week. The student will keep a three ring notebook for adding handouts as they are given. I usually use a guitar book, to have structure, along with supplementary material that fills in the gaps. It is vital to practice on a regular basis in order to improve.
I provide teaching with patience and motivation. Being a parent of a child with ADHD (I homeschooled for one year), I incorporate learning from my parental experiences into lessons as needed. There have been several studies done that show how early music lessons have longtime benefits.

*** Studio Equipment ***
The studio lessons are taught in a music room upstairs with large windows facing the street with guitars, amps, a computer, stereo and seating. The house has 3 cats which are kept separate from lessons. Street parking and/or driveway if needed.

*** Specialties ***
I've taught rock, blues, jazz, classical, contemporary Christian, and music theory. I try to get my students to play along with CD's and listen to others playing what they want to learn. I draw material from the hundreds of books I have collected over the years.

nts attain a thorough and comprehensive mastery of the instrument.

Most importantly, I craft each lesson to the student's interests. Students following my curriculum can work on any genre they want, and achieve fluency on the guitar by studying the techniques of that genre, and then the crossovers of those techniques into other genres.