San Diego, CA Music Performance Lessons

40 students per week. I decided to move forward and take my musical experience with me to San Diego, where I currently teach, write, record, and perform my music with others who have similar goals and aspirations. I love playing in as many bands as possible. The main one I play in is called Quel Bordel. Some of the bands I've played in have given me the opportunity to perform with local and big named artists such as D.J. Artistic, Gary Wilson of Stones Throw Records, The Aristocrats, Terry Bozzio, Alan Holdsworth, and Tony Levin. As a full time musician and performer, I'm typically out gigging anywhere from 2-5 a week. As a teacher, I'm here to help you with where you want to be with guitar. Whether it's rock, pop, funk, hip hop, reggae, jazz, blues, indie, folk, and country, I can help you with the technical and theoretical side of things.

*** Lesson Details ***
My goal- To get you to become better than me. I find myself as an easy going teacher, and can provide that push when I see students getting more engaged in their lessons. I typically teach out of two main books, and it's optional for students to have their own copy of my recommended method books. I emphasize heavy chord vocabulary and steady rhythm. I believe that in order to be a good lead player, you would have to be a great rhythm player. As we develop technique, you can expect me to incorporate theory as to maintain an even share of the HOW's and WHY's. Moreover, expect to DO something with our lessons. Repetition is the mother of learning, and sometimes it comes down to the idea of 'monkey see, monkey do' before we can have in depth conversations about the application of your lessons in real situations. To me, music is very creative. So I'm a big believer on improvisation with both chords and scales. I believe in practical application when learning the songs you want to learn. So every student will have a unique way of learning the fundamentals only necessary to their personal goals.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Two small practice amps, cables, method books (personal copies), extra picks, extra guitar, music stand, blank sheet music/tabs for notes, extra strings, music stand, metronome, tuner

*** Travel Equipment ***
Music stand, extra guitar (if needed), blank staff/tab paper, tuner, metronome, battery powered amp, cables, extra strings (if needed), picks

*** Specialties ***
I primarily use Hal Leonard method books for beginners when it comes to reading and basic technique. For those who want to learn at the intermediate/advance level, I use the book called Jazz and Pop Guitar (chords and progressions) and Scales and Modes in the Beginning which can cover all aspects of chord theory and improvisation. I model my curriculum off of my prior lesson plans from my teachers ( based off of Berklee and GIT) My genres specialize in rock, funk, jazz, indie rock, folk, country, blues, pop

ompleted the Summer Vocology Institute where she worked with several of the most knowledgeable researchers and therapists in the field of voice and completed additional Speech Pathology-related courses at the University of Pittsburgh. During graduate school, she taught as a graduate assistant and was hired after graduation as a Visiting Lecturer at Ohio University. Stacey also taught as the Affiliate Voice Instructor for the Athens Community School of Music and Voice Instructor at Studio 1 in Lancaster, Ohio.

A classically trained musician, Stacey performed locally in Sacramento as a soloist and sang first soprano with the Sacramento Master Singers. Although her love is art song, Stacey performed in both musical theater and opera productions during high school, undergraduate, and graduate school. Her roles include Despina from Mozart'€™s 'Cosi fan tutte' and Nancy in Britten'€™s 'Albert Herring'. She performed 3 degree recitals and was a 1998-99 Concerto Competition Winner at SUNY Fredonia.

*** Lesson Details ***
I find it very important for my students to be comfortable and to enjoy their lessons. Our first lesson will include getting to know your comfort level and all the details of your voice. We will sing a lot of vocal exercises, find out what you already know, and set basic goals. For a normal lesson, I always start with vocal exercises and progress into our song literature.

I am an energetic instructor and love what I do. Everything I teach is based on solid, healthy vocal technique. I apply this classical technique to all styles of singing from musical theater to pop and of course classical. Sometimes I will assign you a song, but usually I give you a choice between 2 or 3. I always encourage you to bring in your own song choices as options!

Students always ask how quickly they will progress. The answer is...it's completely individual. If you strive for a reasonable goal and practice efficiently generally you will progress nicely.

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in classical and musical theater voice, and use the basic efficient healthy technique used in these styles to work with students who prefer to sing popular styles. I spend a lot of time on a solid foundation in breathing and learning to sing in a healthy way.

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I have three educations:
1) PhD in Musicology,
2) Master in Music Education and
3) Bachelor in Electrical Engineering.

I have about 20 years teaching experience and I am a California Certified Music Teacher

I speak english, german, swedish and farsi and love to work with people of all ages.

I teach:
1) Guitar
2) Piano/Keyboard
3) Drums
4) Singing
5) Bass Guitar
6) Music Theory
7) Violoncello

Welcome to My Lessons

*** Specialties ***
Classical, Pop, Rock

some flamenco.

*** Lesson Details ***
I want the student to have fun with music, and rather than focusing on scales and tedious exercises, I have my students learn technique and music theory more from the actual music (Not to say that learning and practicing scales isn't important, but it is much more useful in the long run to have actual musical melodies and riffs that you can play, and that you know how to take them and use in different musical situations).

I try and be as flexible with the student as possible, as I know we all have different goals and amounts of time that we can dedicate, but I believe that even if someone just wants to learn some basic guitar playing, that a little understanding music theory will help them go a lot further.

Regardless, the student should be able to learn the music they want to play, and I will go out of my way to try and find/learn the music you want. I will even transcribe or write my own arrangement if I can't find a suitable one, or to make a simpler version that the student can learn. I believe the student should be able to access and interact with the type of music they want to learn early on, as this will help keep the student interested while at the same time teaching him/her the elements of music and guitar.

As I want the students to be able to interact with the music as early as possible, I will always try and find ways that we can play together, and I will even make recordings so they can practice playing with someone even when they are at home. I also will periodically record the student so that they can not only get the experience playing and recording, but so that they can also look back on their progress, as well as having something they can show their friends/family.

While I mostly play classical, rock/metal, and jazz, I can help students with a large variety of styles, including blues, r & b, and pop music. I also believe that learning different styles and how to take the elements from each that you like and make them your own will lead to a greater mastery of the instrument, regardless of which style you prefer to actually play.

I recommend that my students practice at least thirty minutes a day if they want to see consistent progress, although in the beginning they may not be able to practice that much until they develop calluses on the fingertips. Of course, if they can practice more, that would be great, but I understand that with everything else going on, it isn't always possible to practice every day or for everyone to put the same time into it.

ALLERGY WARNING: I have cats at my house, so if you want to travel to my location, it could be an issue if you have cat allergies.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Guitars, guitar amplifiers, music stands, computer/audio workstation for recording and notating/printing music, microphones, mixer, studio monitors, etc.

*** Travel Equipment ***
Guitar, amp when needed, music/paper, possibly a music stand

ssons establish a strong foundation in keyboard skills and music theory. From there, I encourage students to pursue goals that may range from mastering Bach to conquering a Gershwin song to playing Carrie Underwood arrangements of favorites. Students learn about music history and well known composers, too. A better understanding of music means a deeper enjoyment of it. My job as a teacher is to help build that understanding in the students -- and that will stay with them throughout their lives.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Living room w/ piano and seating for parents

*** Specialties ***
Specialize in keyboard, with emphasis on theory and performance

nstitute of Technology co founder Joe Diorio) pro touring guitarist Christopher Eck of the band Masterguru, former students of guitar virtuosos Greg Howe and Joe Stump and many other serious amateur and professional musicians.

*** Lesson Details ***
Heavily influenced by legendary virtuoso guitarists Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai and Yngwie Malmsteen, Nikola's goal as a teacher is to convey his knowledge and expertise of the guitar on to others while emphasizing his own style, which exemplifies speed, intensity and finesse. While his exploits in rock guitar gymnastics continue to attract and inspire new players, Nik's approach to teaching is simplistic, yet highly effective and suitable for young beginners and adults of all ages.

Nikola M's guitar lessons are professional, insightful, progressive and cover a wide and exciting spectrum including:

The Rudiments of Music

* Chords
* Rhythm studies
* Scales
* Warm up stretches
* Sight reading for beginners
* Theory
* Modes

Technique and Repertoire

* Lead improvisation
* Ear training
* Dynamics

Master Class

* Sweep picking
* Speed picking
* Arpeggios and pentatonics
* Two-hand tapping
* Chicken picking
* Blues improvisation

*** Travel Equipment ***
Amplifier (if needed)

*** Specialties ***
Heavily influenced by legendary virtuoso guitarists Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai and Yngwie Malmsteen, my goal as a teacher is to convey my knowledge and expertise of the guitar on to others while emphasizing my own style, which exemplifies speed, intensity and finesse. In addition to teaching various genres like pop, jazz, country and folk, I specialize in instructing virtuoso rock and progressive metal guitar techniques.

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.

ation of California (MTAC), Southern California Junior Bach Festival, The Carnegie Hall Royal Conservatory Achievement Program, and AP Music Theory.

*** Lesson Details ***
I am an extremely patient teacher with experience teaching students ages 3-84 at various levels. I use a variety of curricula since each lesson is tailored specifically to each student.

*** Studio Equipment ***
1) Yamaha Clavinova CLP-555 fully-weighted 88-key Digital Mini-Grand Piano, 3) Gemeinhardt Flute, 4) Studio copies of all method books used, sheet music and materials used during lessons,

*** Travel Equipment ***
Gemeinhardt Flute, method books and materials needed during lessons,

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in teaching classical music, but also teach jazz/pop/Broadway/Sacred styles. I am familiar with and use various different methods including but not limited to Faber: Piano Adventures, Keys for the Kingdom, Bastien Basics, and Suzuki. Each lesson is tailored toward the individual student's needs.

r favorite venues. Many of my students have gone on to sing professionally and I currently teach Artists with ongoing careers.

My motto is learn to sing the "Easy, Natural Way". I teach the very best techniques, so vocalizing is not strained or difficult. My main focus is on teaching good "placement" of the sound, using the best ways to secure breath support and control, as well as good stage presence. Dealing with stage fright is always addressed, whether the singer wants to sing just for themselves, or audition for Musical Theatre productions. Styles range from pop to rock and opera.
I teach students of ALL AGES and work with every style or genre of music. Having spearheaded the Music program at the local YMCA has been a special treat in my teaching career!

*** Studio Equipment ***
I teach using a piano for learning vocal exercises and good techniques. I also have an acoustic Guitar that I use to teach my students how to play and learn good finger picking and strumming techniques. Using a computer is always employed, to pull up songs on YouTube, so students can choose what they would like to work on. Karaoke versions are used as well, for further training purposes.

*** Travel Equipment ***
When I teach at a student's home, I bring my Guitar with me, if they're studying this instrument. It is helpful for a student to have a piano or keyboard for me to teach voice, but I do have a keyboard I can bring if none is available. Having a computer close by is very helpful, to get the most out of the lesson as is possible.

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in helping people who have created possible "bad habits" in their singing techniques. "Placement" and breathing, or "support", are of key importance. When good techniques are used, just about anyone can learn to sing beautifully. I also work with all ages, having background with Children, as well as teens, middle age, and elderly vocalists. Singing is universal, so every ethnicity is included in my student roster. If someone wants to learn to play the acoustic Guitar, this is always a plus, to accompany ones-self, or to focus on the instrument on it's own. Singing and playing should be "easy" and this is the approach I take in teaching.

AND MIRACLE of MUSIC.