La Mirada Music Lessons

classical technique provides a solid foundation for every singer. Within the first 3months my students will understand the basics of posture, breathing, tone placement, support, diction, and phrasing.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I have a keyboard, and some sheet music. I would prefer the student to have a piano, and sheet music

*** Specialties ***
I have a B.A. in Classical Voice, and have taken 1 semester of pop voice

d motivated to perform on stage with confidence no matter what their skill level.

*** Lesson Details ***
My lessons focus on reading, technique and basic music theory. I always start my lessons with scales and exercises. This develops good technique and primes the student for music theory. The rest of the lesson is focused on reading and performance. I expose students to different classical composers like Bach, Mozart and Beethoven. Once they have mastered a few pieces, students are then encouraged to study the composers they enjoy the most. It is important for students to enjoy the music that they are learning as I expect them to practice everyday.

*** Travel Equipment ***
They must have a piano

*** Specialties ***
Classical Piano

the lesson, we start with simple warm ups and vocalizes and then apply techniques to the songs you want to sing. I realize each student is different and I customize the lesson to the student's particular needs. I specialize in classical and music theater, however the basics of singing apply to all styles of music. In addition to working on breathing and technique for singing, we'll also focus on interpretation of the songs you are working on as well as how to overcome performance nervousness. Most students find that they are able to sing with more freedom, less tension and will have more confidence as they progress.

I also teach beginning piano, using the John W. Schaum series.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Lessons in the main room, upright piano

*** Travel Equipment ***
They need to provide a piano or keyboard if I am going to their home.
I have a piano in my home.

*** Specialties ***
I work on using the breath as a fundamental technique for singing. Singing should never hurt. I use a lot of imagery to achieve freedom in singing.

ason Lingle (Berklee School Of Music), Keith Harris (drummer for The Black Eyed Peas) and Lee Nichols, to name a few. My experiences with these teachers has led to a proficiency in rock, jazz and Latin, as well as the ability to convey these concepts in a manner that promotes patience, personal challenge, and constant progress.

Besides teaching private lessons at many local facilities, I have had the opportunity to teach group classes at dozens of elementary and middle schools, including schools in the Westminster, Ocean View and Huntington Beach school districts. I have also aided many students into attending the arts high-school/college of their choice by working with them to properly read and perform all audition material.

Whether you are a brand-new beginner or a seasoned student of the instrument, I am confident that I can take your playing to the next level. Oh yeah, we will also have a great time. Maybe you don’t know yet, but playing the drums is FUN. Give me a call and I will prove it to you.

*** Lesson Details ***
I teach using the Freddie Gruber method, which promotes a natural grip of stick and the idea that we should allow the stick to “do what it wants to do” by using natural and fluid motions. This is an incredibly effective style of play and is used by drummers such as Neil Peart, Dave Weckl and Steve Smith.

I teach with an emphasis both on rudiments and hand technique, as well as drum-set exercises and genre study. I encourage practice to be done on a rubber practice pad
as well as on the drum-set, and for brand-new beginners, I often recommend that the practice pad be used exclusively for the first several weeks or months to allow for a great understanding of basic grips and hand techniques. This is especially true when the new beginner doesn't yet own a drum-set. I am often asked, “does my child need a drum-set to take lessons?” The answer is always a resounding “not at all!” A pair of sticks and a practice pad will do the trick, and will also allow you, as the parent, to see your child’s level of involvement.

Within the first 3 to 6 months of lessons, my students can expect to:

- Properly play and understand a handful of rudiments, including the single and double stroke rolls, the paradiddle family, as well as several flam and drag rudiments.
- Play and begin properly reading many different drum-beats and rhythms, and connect these beats using fills that are fun and sound cool.
- Begin learning songs of the their choice, from Metallica to Miles Davis.

I am also inspired by many different educational sources, including the textbooks:

- Stick Control by George Lawrence Stone
- Rockin’ Bass Drum by Charles Perry and John Lombardo
- Realistic Rock by Carmine Appice
- The Art Of Bop Drumming by John Riley
- The Drummer’s Bible by Mick Berry and Jason Gianni
- Haskell Harr’s Drum Method

…as well as many other awesome texts that provide both classic and contemporary concepts that are challenging, and most importantly, sound really cool.

I teach out of an awesome private studio that features 2 drum-sets (the student never needs to get off the drum-set), recording equipment (lessons are often recorded and cited later) and a great headphone sound system (for effectively learning and playing along with songs.) Simply put, I believe my studio is the most fun and efficient place to study the drums in Orange County.

Whether you are a drum-line student who needs help playing a piece, a rock drummer who wishes to learn the basics of jazz (or vice versa), or a brand-new beginner who wants to see what this whole drumming thing is all about (spoiler: it’s awesome), I have the patience, the passion and the skills to help you get the most out of this wonderful instrument. Let’s play the drums!

*** Studio Equipment ***
I teach out of an awesome private studio that features 2 drum-sets (the student never needs to get off the drum-set), recording equipment (lessons are often recorded and cited later) and a great headphone sound system (for effectively learning and playing along with songs.) Simply put, I believe my studio is the most fun and efficient place to study the drums in Orange County.

Check out the photos in my profile for some pictures.

*** Specialties ***
Years of teaching group classes to elementary and middle school students has given me lots of experience with a multitude of learning styles. My specialty lies in not only conveying lessons and concepts in an easy to understand manner, but doing so in a fun way that encourages progress. Simply put, you will want to practice, simply to see exercises and grooves evolve.

While I am most proficient in rock music and have played in many rock bands, I am also very proficient in formal snare playing (marching/classical) as well as standards in jazz and Latin.

s and princes, Francesca has high expectations and is skilled in helping her students reach their goals.

Now performing in the Donald Brinager Singers, a studio choir for-hire, Francesca can often be seen performing with orchestras throughout Southern California. While mentoring through her award-winning teaching studio, Francesca also manages to perform several showcases featuring her original music with her amazing back-up ensemble.

With a constant effort to maintain a professional studio learning environment and with a focus on reading skills and solid technique, Francesca's students enjoy lessons packed with information and light-heartedness. The one on one experience you will have the moment you walk thru the door promises to be unmatched. Francesca's students can be seen on major television networks, radio stations and performing around town in various projects. With a passion to give back, Francesca reserves a small number of spots in her schedule for the youngsters and seniors of her community. She teaches beginning through advanced guitar, piano, and voice.

*** Lesson Details ***
Voice and Instrument Coaching

~Develop skills and techniques for top notch practice and performance
~Study theory, composition, ear training, arranging, improvisation
~Discover music technology and performance techniques
~Study melody, harmony, song form and lyric writing

Artist Development

~Voice and Instrument Coaching
~Song Writing and Selection
~Demo Recording
~Image / Art / Photography Consulting
~Finding your signature sound and style
~Live Performance 101
~Branding / Career Planning and Strategy
~Song Analysis and Consulting
~Booking gigs

A Note From Francesca:

My official bio is listed below, but perhaps more important than the things I have done are the things that I am doing. I am now approaching my 15th year of teaching. I love to teach! I carry a minimum of 30 students, but have carried more then 80 at one time, and have never once complained. My waiting list cycles based on my performance schedule and recording schedule. If you don't see a time that works for you, feel free to reach out and see if we can find something that works, as an artist, my schedule can be quite full but also quite flexible. I love my students, I get to do what I love all day and I am sure it shows. I have a blast discovering new ways to experience music with "my kids." I call all of my students kids even though most of my studio consists of young adults. I try to have a young air in my classes at all times as it just makes the process so much more fun for everyone.

I've seen it all in through years: kids, adults, beginners and advanced students. I am personally very interested in being the most versatile musician possible and I love being able to share my knowledge with my students. We can study anything and everything from Classical Guitar to Electric Guitar Shredding; from Opera to Kelly Clarkson; from Tchaikovsky to Little Richard! I love getting students to dabble in little bits of all genres, often getting even the most skeptical student singing and playing comfortably in a matter of just a few weeks. My students will be able to read music for their favorite tunes and understand how to improvise from the start. Once you come in, you'll be hooked. You will have fun because I am having fun!

I encourage all of my students to share their favorite music with me. It affords me the opportunity to learn more about what they desire to learn and what types of music they enjoy. We will learn with your music often. After all, isn't that why you are coming to see me? I will introduce you to new sounds and styles, but will foster your love for music, and do my best to never force my music on students. I feel I learn as much from my students when I truly listen to them and their music as they do from me.

On site lessons are available for artists recording demos, rehearsing bands and setting up their own studios.

On a side note, I love seeing students at my shows! I am a full time musician and can be seen playing with my band, in my own solo project and in various choral settings. Check out my website and see what I do outside of the classroom. My students get a kick out of the idea that they can buy a CD with their teachers face on it, and to be honest, so do I. Many of my students have their own music out on iTunes and YouTube. Many more can be seen performing around town in solo projects and professional ensembles.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Pianos, Guitars, Basses, Amps, Computer, Monitors, Music, Recording Software, Drum Kit, Studio and Performance Mics, everything we need! Its like Disneyland for musicians!

*** Travel Equipment ***
Varies

*** Specialties ***
Francesca on Artist Development:

I feel obligated to share my joys and experiences-

Not many people have been blessed to sing alongside as many renowned musicians as I have - I've been lucky to be welcomed in both the commercial and classical worlds and they have both afforded me venues to use my voice and express the most vital corners of my soul. To find your purpose through art is one of the greatest gifts you can receive. And to be able to do that in front of thousands of music lovers live or over the airwaves is a surreal experience.

It'€™s funny, my classical cronies are impressed to hear my stories of packed rock gigs at the House Blues and national touring festivals like Warped Tour and my rock buddies ask to hear my stories of Disney Hall performances with the LA Phil. To be honest, Iâ'm impressed to be there too. Sometimes, I look around and think, how did I get here? How did I get lucky enough to live the dream, to find a home in music?

I've been luckier than most. I've had GREAT mentors who have always pushed me forward and shared their wisdom freely with me. Part of the classical musician's central goal is to educate. That'€™s a value I carry into my rock projects and production studio. Work smarter, not harder. Take the needed skills, create art, teach others how to do the same thing, move forward together to live happier, more productive lives filled with purpose.

I have come to be known as one of the top Musical Mentors & Artist Development Experts on the west coast. A behind the scenes- diva of dream building with the skills to push artists to the next level- the ace up the sleeve of many of today working talents. In my award winning studio, I spend time coaching the young voices and faces of today hottest TV shows seen on ABC, Nickelodeon, and the Disney Channel, but I still have a soft spot for up and comers in the indie music world. Having written and performed my own music for decades, I not only lived the collegiate experience of the elite classical performer singing for presidents and world leaders, but also the dingy road of the rock musician who'€™s showed one night to a packed stadium full of fans and showed up another, thousands of miles from home to play to a coffee shop of 5 people. Music has brought me to nearly every continent and introduced me to some of the most talented and diverse people you can imagine. I feel compelled to share these experiences with those around me so that they my develop the vision, the salt and the skills to persevere.

I am, above all, an artist & creator- living the dream, helping people- like you find their voice and write their songs. Turning raw emotion into art.

Each one of us has a story, our truth. Being an artist is about finding ourselves, our song and expressing it publicly so that we may heal, so that we may grow.

It doesn't take a ton of experience to write a hit song. It doesn't take a fancy education or a family line of talent (though it can help). We can all find our voice, our place in the spotlight, what it takes is the courage to take the next step forward.

You've already had the genius to be in the right place at the right time. Here. If you've made it this far, chances are you are smart enough, hungry enough and ready to take the plunge.

Inside my studio you will find the help you seek. I can impart you with proven techniques to strengthen your sound, develop your tone through strong technique, develop strategies to share your art and develop a plan to turn pipe dreams into reality. Some desire to sing on the worlds brightest stages, others strive to lead others through teaching themselves, and some wish for nothing more than to experience music in a confident manner among friends. All can be lead on this personal journey of the artistic soul and all can make their offering to the musical gods. There is a place at the table for anyone seeking an answer.

curriculum just for them based on their musical desires, strengths and weaknesses so I can help them become the best player that they can be. Each lessons will be a balance of learning new technique and theory and applying them in songs that excite and inspire.
Things such as: music theory, ear and harmony training, single string technique, sight and cord chart reading, cord structure, song writing, tone shaping, guitar maintenance and playing live will be covered with students as they advance. Feed back is always welcome and appreciated. This is your lesson, let's make sure you get the most out of it.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Music Studio: Guitars, amps, mixing board, protools, computer with external stereo, seating for parents can be arranged

*** Travel Equipment ***
I can bring my own guitar and cables. But the student will need to have their own guitar, amp etc

*** Specialties ***
Blues, Rock, Metal, Jazz, Funk and Country

experience and my love for French with all students and their families.

Sincerely,

Elena

ia.
I have also had lessons with Jeremy Wilson (Former trombone in Vienna Philharmonic), Jim Markey (Bass trombone of Boston Symphony Orchestra), Tim Higgins (Principal Trombone of San Francisco Symphony), Megumi Kanda, (Principal Trombone of Milwaukee Symphony) Kyle Covington (Principal Trombone of San Diego Symphony), Andre Glendening .

I have also attended masterclasses with Timothy Higgins, Ian Bousfield, Sergio Carolino, Jeremy Wilson, Megumi Kanda, Douglas Yeo, James Miller, Alex Iles, David Rejano Cantero, John Lofton, Randall Hawes, Michael Roylance, Robert Frear, David Cooper, Sean Reusch, Kyle Covington, Julie Landsman, Jen Baker, David Vining, Seth Vatt, Andrew Glendening, Scott Sutherland, and Gene Pokorny.

Another educational experience that I attribute to my growth as a musician took place during the summers that I attended high school, I marched Baritone and Euphonium for four seasons with, The Mandarins Drum and Bugle Corps, from Sacramento, California. The Mandarins are a World Class marching ensemble that competes in the Drum Corps International organization.

My pedagogy and philosophy is a mix of all the wisdom that I have acquired from all of these amazing musicians, and I want to share as much of it as I can with my students.

clarinet.

I found my passion for playing at a young age. I believe that although it is important to build good technique, practice habits, and musicality, it is also important to keep the passion and joy that playing music can bring us. As I grow as a person and a musician, I always try to remember what brought me to music in the first place: playing and enjoying music with my friends and peers.

Aside from performance, I discovered my passion for teaching as I started working with students in private lessons and working as a camp counselor at a woodwind camp. I was invited to sub with the Auburn Symphony and was excited to perform Tchaikovsky’s Symphony no. 2 beside my mentor and friend, Jennifer Nelson. Today, I am indebted to the inspiration my uncle gave me as a child and all my teachers for my opportunity to pursue a Masters of Music in Clarinet Performance at Cal State Fullerton.