Hacienda Heights, CA Music Theory Lessons

y is to have a safe, positive, fun, and effective learning environment for all of my students. I believe it is important to be a well rounded musician, therefore I love my students to have a solid understanding of what they are doing. I strongly encourage all of my students to learn theory along with piano or voice, so they understand what they are doing. Each student is unique, therefore each student has a different lesson plan. I do expect that my students will practice during the week in order to grow, since this helps them reach their goals. I do let students pick most their own repertoire, since it is very important for them to be motivated and enjoy their assignments during the week. I can teach from early Baroque music to modern day and everything in between. Music is expression, therefore I believe it is very important for my students to love what they are working on.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Lessons are in my house with my upright Yamaha piano.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I can bring a keyboard, but it is necessary to have a piano or keyboard at home to pracitce on if you are a piano student.

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in jazz voice, with a strong background in classical and musical theatre. I also specialize in piano, music theory, songwriting and arranging.

mbles. I have a broad education in music with knowledge of classical, modern, and world music, as well as advanced training in music theory which I incorporate in private lessons. I have also studied conducting, music analysis, music history, voice, and advanced piano.

*** Specialties ***
While I specialize in classical music, I help my students discover what genre of music they're passionate about learning, including classical, jazz, pop, and fiddle. Lessons include scales, technique, ear training, sight reading, music theory, solos, duets, music performance and the option to prepare for auditions and youth orchestras. I tailor the curriculum I use depending on the need of each individual student. Please contact me for up to date lesson availabilities!

***Repertoire***
Beginner to intermediate students use method books such as Essential Elements, Suzuki Method, and the Royal Conservatory of Music. For young students, I also use the Sassmannshaus Tradition, and the Violin Fun Book series. Intermediate to Advanced students learn technique using Carl Flesch scales, and studies from Shradiek, Sevcik, Mazas, and Kreutzer to name a few. Solo pieces including from composers such as Mozart, Franck, Bruch, Mendelssohn, Seitz, Bach, Handel, Beethoven and Vivaldi. I also encourage my students to explore other styles of music that interest them, such as pop, fiddling, Celtic, and movie music.

, Playing on Jimmy Kimmel Live with Mayer Hawthorne, and playing with Bobby Caldwell. Also, he performed with "The Hollabacks", a 7 piece rock band which won the Slurpee Battle of the Bands Competition 2010. From 2012-2015, he traveled to Indonesia yearly, with the Ron King band, playing at the Java Jazz Festival, one of the worlds largest jazz festivals.

, developing mastery of rock guitar and blues performance and improvisation. Brian went on to complete a Bachelor's Degree in Classical Guitar Performance from California State University, Los Angeles.

Passionate about all kinds of music, Brian's studies include choral music and conducting, Gregorian chant (at the Monastery of St. Pierre de Solesmes, France), and Master Classes with Andrés Segovia and Christopher Parkening. In 1984, he participated as a member of the Honor Choir for the ceremonies of the Olympic Games in Los Angeles, which included recording of original music by Philip Glass for the Olympic Games under the direction of David L. Wolper and Mr. Glass.

As a jazz guitarist, Brian continues to grow musically in association with his colleagues of the Naomi Jazz Group, and other close musical friends who include students of the late, great Ted Greene.

*** Lesson Details ***
METHOD BOOKS:
FOR PIANO: Faber & Faber Method Series
Dozen A Day Technique series
FOR GUITAR:
STEEL STRINGS: Mel Bay, Alfreds Method Book
CLASSICAL: Fredric Noad
Julio Segraras Method
JAZZ: Stanford Jazz Workshop
The National Guitar Workshop's Jazz Guitar Method Series
Real Easy Books: Beginning & Intermediate Levels

MY APPROACH:
I focus on four areas that I think are essential to being a good music teacher:

• the uniqueness of each student;
• the fact that enjoyment (fun!) maximizes learning;
• the importance of proper technique and an understanding of music theory to build self-confidence;
• the development of musicianship through performance.

EACH STUDENT IS UNIQUE:
My first interest with each new student is to discover how he or she learns, and then to apply appropriate teaching techniques to maximize their potential. I gear my lesson plans to the individual and strive to optimize the learning potential of the student.

ENJOYMENT MAXIMIZES LEARNING:
In a lesson with me you can expect to never be bored, to laugh a lot, learn a lot, be positively engaged emotionally and challenged intellectually. I believe that learning is maximized when the student is enjoying the experience, and is faced with challenges appropriate to their skill level. I aim to make learning music fun, choosing musical selections to learn in the style and genre that relate to the student's interests and aspiration.

TECHNIQUE & UNDERSTANDING OF MUSIC THEORY TO BUILD SELF-CONFIDENCE:
When my students perform in concerts, recitals, juries, auditions, recording sessions or simply for friends and family, they have self-confidence because they know precisely the "how" and "why" of everything required to perform well. My goal with students is to build a solid foundation in instrumental technique and thorough understanding of Music Theory at their appropriate level.

PERFORMANCE:
On a monthly basis, all my students practice performing pieces they are working on during the lesson time, with family/friends as an audience if desired and appropriate, and/or using digital recording to help the student develop a critical ear for their own playing.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Music stands, guitar/s and guitar stands, Dynarelle cushion, footrests, Korg 88 fully--weighted digital keyboard, Zoom H4 digital recorder.

As well, I have guitars and equipment both for teaching and performance of various styles, as below. Students will have the opportunity to learn about, play and become familiar with any of these instruments/equipment according to their interests and skill levels.

GUITARS:

CLASSICAL: Ramirez Model 1A Classical (professional concert level instrument)
Cordoba (teaching/practice instrument)
Hohner Acoustic (electric)

ROCK: Fender Stratocaster (pre-CBS)
Shechter Omen6
Shechter Elite Series C1

FOLK: Martin (steel string)
Dobro

JAZZ: Oscar Schmidt by Washburn (hollow body electric)
Gibson SG (electric)

OTHER EQUIPMENT:

AMPS: Fender Twin reverb
Pevey practice amp
Rock amp

Boss GT8 Effects Pedal

*** Travel Equipment ***
Guitar stands, guitar/s, Zoom H4 digital recorder. Generally I do not transport my Korg 88 keyboard to the student's home for lessons, but I can if necessary. However, I do require that piano students have their own piano/keyboard or at least reliable access to one for practice between lessons.

Guitar students should also have their own guitar. I can advise on appropriate instruments and can help students find a suitable guitar for their learning level and price range.

ts. Basically I've done a little of everything and I believe that it is this diversity of experiences that makes me a better teacher. Having worked in so many settings gives me a broad understanding that I use to help you reach whatever goals you might have.

I have also become adept at writing, recording and producing music, studying under Frank Wright of the legendary rock band Chicago. If you have an interest in creating and/or recording music I can definitely help you get there! Check out my chill/downtempo instrumental album 'Night Music'.

*** Lesson Details ***
I can teach you about playing several different instruments, how to write, how to record your own music, and how to get your music career off the ground! As a youth, I was largely self-taught so my inspiration was always to have fun. I never had to deal with the 'homework' style of practicing so I've naturally incorporated that approach to my lessons. My goal is to keep you (the student) inspired and having fun. When that happens you will become good at your instrument and feel as though you 'played' your way to success! As your teacher I will also provide almost all of the materials for free and show you great free apps to help you along with your learning and keep costs to a minimum! I know we will have fun together while you learn and I look forward to meeting you!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Guitars, piano/keyboard, drums, bass, banjo, mandolin, ukulele and a ProTools recording studio.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide the learning materials but I expect the student to have their own instrument, be that a guitar, drum set, etc.

*** Specialties ***
Commercial music is definitely my specialty, but I am also capable of doing various styles such as classical, bluegrass, traditional/folk. Just focus on what you want to learn and I can teach it to you.

show entitled Sing the Season. I have performed in many Operas and Broadways musicals too numerous to mention because we are only allowed 2500 characters!!! I am director of my own vocal studio in Orange County and Beverly Hills. I have been teaching since 1979 helping aspiring performers refine their vocal techniques for greater success in auditions and performances. I helped Amanda Seyfried secure her role in the movie Les Miserables. Recognizing that is critical for singers to be comfortable in front of an audience, I offer many types of classes and performance opportunities. Hope to hear from you soon!!

viola section, played with the West LA Symphony Orchestra, played alongside Laryn Hill, a show presented by Quincy Jones, played in movie orchestras, recorded for studio sessions, performed electronic violin for private parties and nightclubs across the US.

*** Lesson Details ***
I have been teaching music since age 11. My mother is a concert pianist and I started off by teaching her students the violin. I have taught ever since and I love it. I have studied in Australia, Europe and the US.

I will help you create a fantastic technical base so you will be able to play with ease as your skill level develops, all while keeping the lessons fun and engaging.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Piano, Violin, Viola, Music Stand, General Teaching Aids, Recording Equipment.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I can provide a music stand and basic materials but the student is expected to have their own instruments and to buy the music I recommend. I will help source and instruments and materials.

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in classical music. I also teach other styles of music including improv, how to play pop music and can help you reach any musical goal. In Australia I used the AMEB syllabus. Which is the Australian examination system for music. I also teach Suzuki method and similar methods. I like creating a great foundation with a lot of exercises and scale patterns to really build up a solid base.

a look back, put yourself in that time, and really study how things were to help understand why things are the way they are now.

Crocheting and knitting are a couple of good habits/hobbies I picked up about 8 years ago. I sell scarves online and I'm always working on some sort of project. I will have you knitting and pearling with the best of them!

Music, history, crochet, and knitting....I'm your girl!

love or reading through a classical concerto, I’ll help prepare you or your child to tackle a wide variety of styles, without missing out on any of the basics that turn good players into phenomenal musicians. We all know it’s not about being the best. It’s about having fun, and playing music well is definitely fun.

Practice makes perfect! Learning an instrument helps build self-confidence and discipline. If your child’s bored, distracted, or just needs a constructive hobby, music is a great place to get them interested in something that will help them feel better about themselves, and the effects will be felt across everything else they do, through better studying habits to a more patient, diligent work ethic.

It’s also relaxing! Stressed about work? Need an escape? Maybe you want to sound like [insert piano player here]. Everybody has the power to learn an instrument. Seriously, there’s no such thing as “talent.” Just start lessons and get practicing! It really is that simple, and I’ll guide you through every step of the way.

I have a diverse background teaching students of all ages, from 3-year-olds to retirees alike, customizing what we learn to the individual student. We’ll learn how to read music just as easily as you read words; improvise and compose music of our own; and feel good playing any style: classical, jazz, rock, and all. My experience as a working musician in films, musical theater, and pop music, as well as classical concert music, allows me to appreciate and teach styles that many other instructors overlook, and I know full well that learning an instrument is not about becoming a professional; it’s about being able to connect to others or oneself through music… and also to just have fun! There’s no need to learn music we don’t like! It’s not about stuffing Beethoven into your kids’ ears… we just want to make music, be that Beethoven or Billy Joel.

Music lasts a lifetime. I know that’s a terrible cliché, but it’s true, and few other skills can claim that. I don’t want to sugarcoat it: it takes time to learn an instrument. It takes practice, and sometimes it’s frustrating. But the results are well worth it, and like a snowball rolling down a hill, the longer you do it, the faster you get… or something like that. There’s a legitimate analogy in there somewhere.

Now get out there and make some music! But start by signing up for lessons. I can’t wait to get started!

---

“What’s that chord?” “Why does all my music sound the same?” “How do I fix this voicing?” “I just can’t get it out of my head!” …sound familiar? You’ve probably hit a rut. Or maybe you’re just starting out. Either way, you want your music to sound new, exciting, and to come out exactly how you hear it in your head. Yes… you CAN learn to compose music, you CAN learn to be more creative, and you CAN learn to share your sound with the world.

Film music, classical, jazz… whatever your interest, all music comes from the same place, and by learning a handful of basic concepts, you can apply these to whatever style you’re trying to write. Learning to emulate another musician involves knowing what they’re doing. Learning to create a groundbreaking sound requires that you know what’s already been done, and how to achieve it. Step by step, we’ll work our way there.

We’ll learn how to write cool, interesting chord progressions, how to write beautiful melodies, and how to voice chords. We’ll learn how to control the mood of our music, from making it sound relaxed to adding tension wherever we want. Maybe you’re trying to write for an orchestra, or just a small band. By learning the basics, you can then easily break away from what’s been done and come up with something truly new… the goal of any aspiring composer!

gthen their technique or finally begin that piece they have always wanted to learn.