Arabi, LA Music Performance Lessons

lassical piano department in the School of the Arts High School of San Francisco. There I went through rigorous classical training and learned vast amounts of repertoire. At the same time, I still studied and played jazz in the high school Big Band, Latin Jazz band and small jazz combo. It was during this time that I deeply focused on not only Jazz music and improvisation, but also Salsa, Latin Jazz, R&B, Funk, Pop. Basically all other forms and styles of music. I learned what it means to be in a band and how to make an ensemble sound good and to make an audience like and cheer for the music. I was lucky to have bands and musicians to play with all around San Francisco, including jazz festivals.

After graduating as the only student to study in the Piano department for 4 years in my graduating class, I was accepted with scholarship to Berklee College of Music in Boston. I started my first semester in 2009, and declared a Piano Performance and Jazz Composition Dual Major in 2010. At Berklee, I studied under amazing piano teachers to focus on my jazz playing and technique and repertoire. Some of the classes I took included music theory, ear training, composition and arranging, scoring and analysis, even guitar and bass labs. As well, I was the main piano player for the Berklee Salsa Ensemble for 3 straight years. I was also involved with bands and playing recitals, shows, clubs, outdoors and indoor venues throughout Boston and Massachusetts. I had the honor of being hired by Berklee to travel and play along with other selected students at the Carnaval de Barranquilla honoring Joe Arroyo. This was the most memorable musical experience for me yet, as I played along great musicians for hundreds of people in a theater, including Joe Arroyo sharing the stage with the band.

All of this experience and training is what I bring to my lessons and tutoring sessions. I teach my students how to prepare themselves for any kind of musical situation, from music theory and technique, to piano playing and repertoire, and understanding and playing all kinds of styles and genres of music. Most of all, I teach my students to be unique in their musical endeavors and to bring out their own voice through music. And the most important element of all, the happiness and joy it brings to the students and others.

*** Lesson Details ***
In my piano and music lessons, you will be learning music theory, proper piano technique, ear training, sight reading, and repertoire. It will be up to the student to determine what genre and style of music they want to learn and study. It can be anything from classical music, jazz, or even Funk and R&B music and more. My students will also develop an ear, meaning that instead of only focusing on written material and music in sheet music format, they will learn to hear intervals and chords, and also play or sing back melodies.

My teaching style is very easy to get along with. I don't pressure or push students by being too strict. When learning music, being hard and strict gets the student nowhere. I approach the student with listening and understanding. It's my job to see the students advantages and keep them strong, as well as working on bringing up weaknesses and what's needed to make the student excel in both playing technique, and all other musical aspects.

When it comes to proper piano technique, I always teach my students with "Hanon, the Virtuoso Pianist in sixty excercises", and "Scales, Chords & Arpeggios" by James Bastien. After 3-6 months as my student, you will progress in your technique skills, ear training, repertoire and memorization

*** Studio Equipment ***
Main keyboard: Nord Stage 2 88 keysRecording equipment: M-Audio ProFire 2626 interface (modified), Black Lion Audio Inst/Mic Preamp, Black Lion Audio Master clock, KRK Rokit 6's, Shure SM57/SM58, Sterling Audio ST57 FET Condenser microphone, MacBook Pro with Logic, Ableton Live, Reason, Digital PerformerBass: Fender '57 reissue P Bass, made in JapanGuitar: Fender Deluxe Players Stratocaster, made in MexicoAmps: Behringer PA/Keyboard amp, Fender DeVille 2X12 60W all tube Guitar amp

*** Travel Equipment ***
Sheet music material and copied pages from books. Student should be able to provide their own books.

*** Specialties ***
Classically trained in Piano. Most recent styles and genres include Jazz, Fusion, Blues, Rock, Funk, R&B/Soul, Latin, Latin-Jazz, Salsa, Afro-Cuban

lesson is a review of material the student has covered; a "warm up"
The second half of the lesson is for learning a new song or guitar solo as well as chord theory (learning and understanding new songs / songwriting) and scale theory (learning and understanding how melodies and solos fit over chord progressions).
I recommend setting a baseline intention of practicing 15 minutes a day. If you stick to that every day you will improve on the guitar and be playing music very soon!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Fender guitar mini for ages 5-9.
Fender guitar (standard) 9-adult.
Fender Pro Reverb amp.
Chairs, Music Stand, Blank Sheet music, Books
Cables, picks etc.
No need to bring an instrument to the lesson!

*** Specialties ***
Electric and Acoustic guitar
Rock / Pop / Alternative / Blues / Folk / Heavy Metal / Jazz / Fusion / R&B

Learn anything on request!

hidden artistic desires. I am currently writing a musical which will be debuting in 2020. I'm currently the vocal coach/Trainer and choir director at Iglesia Elim Central.

I will make sure my students have fun and help them get in the right track to their musical goals.

Also, I constantly upload videos on Singing, The Spanish Language, and Japanese! So keep Checking in! It ranges on tips and answering the most common questions on those particular subjects!

Also There are discounted rates for worship teams and church choirs. For more information please contact me through the "Ask a Question feature"

*** Lesson Details ***
I do my absolute best to create a positive atmosphere for my students. Even when the students feel frustrated or stressed, it is important to inspire them and give them the fuel that they need. Though I am strict when it comes to homework and their about their studies. Every lesson at the beginning I will review what we learned previously and test them.
then begin with proper breathing technique exercises, the cornerstone of all vocals. We move on to vocal exercises to condition the voice. Then we work on the songs that you are eager to sing!

I will use a piano when doing vocal warm ups and conditioning exercises. Students that play other instruments and accompany themselves when performing (such as a guitar) are encouraged to bring that instrument to their lessons. My goal is for them to gain the knowledge that they need to help reach their artistic goals.
With all my lessons every student will be taught a basic run down of Music Theory. My students will always progress in what they do. They will have the discipline that they need and yet have fun and be filled with inspiration. Which is the most important thing, to be Inspired to do better.

*** Studio Equipment ***
iMac, condensing mic...performing mic, keyboard, mixer...living room of apartment.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I do have a portable keyboard. Though I do expect the student to have their own recording device and karaoke tracks. At Home I do have a studio, and if the students has an iPod or an Mp3 player I can attach it to a device where all of us can hear the tracks. I do have a recording studio as well.

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in Musical Theatre, and Pop rock genres. When I teach my students I always have them learn a song of another language whether it's Spanish or Japanese. It helps with diction when they learn a song outside the English Language. Also It helps them to learn another Language at the same time. Also I give them a little anatomy class when they are learning how to sing. I give them a model of the vocal Chords and different areas of the Larynx and which part works for the chest voice and the head voice.

Special packages now Available (Not Available Online for purchase! Please call Takelessons for booking)

If you can Speak you can Sing- Always wanted to learn how to sing and learn a new language? In this package we will do both! With 4 singing lessons (30 minutes each for kids 60 minute each for adults) to learn the proper technique to improve the voice and 4-languages lessons (English, Spanish or Japanese, 30 minutes each for kids 60 minute each for adults) ) to learn the grammar structure and get you conversing with a native speaker! Plus you will learn how to sing a song in the language you chose! This will be 2 classes a week or 2 classes every other week. This means one singing lesson a week and one language lesson a week. If you have kids this is perfect for the summer!

$225 for 30 minute lessons.
$300 for 60 minute lessons.

Let's Sing Anime! Do you love singing to those openings and Ending theme songs when watching your favorite Anime? I do! What can I say I'm an Anime Nerd. With this package you'll get 4 Singing lessons (30 minutes each for kids 60 minute each for adults) and 4- hour Japanese lessons (30 minutes each for kids 60 minute each for adults) ! Let's learn how to sing those songs right and know what they mean without reading those subtitles!

$225 for 30 minute lessons.
$300 for 60 minute lessons.

If you will like more information Click "Ask a Question" and all questions will go directly to me!

Bass and musical director at Murderers Row
Blue Man Group….Chapman Stick, bass guitar and talking drum from 1991 to present including performing on the Jay Leno Show in 1994; ongoing gigs as sideman and leader (bass, guitar, stick and voice) in NYC from 1981 to 2015
Tom S. Trio on fretless guitar - NY
Fretless Guitar Festival, 2006

Solo bass CD- Quixotic
Brillliant Coroners CD
Otis Ball and The Chains - I'm Gonna Love You Till I Don't;
Dumptruck For The Country CD

Specializations:
Improvisation
Music Learning (Theory)
Music Technology (MIDI and Digital Recording)

*** Lesson Details ***
I am a laid back, but focused instructor. I use a variety of methods to best improve my students strengths and lessen their weaknesses. After three to six months , most students will be comfortable playing in rhythm and understanding basic harmony.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Lessons in the music room, guitar, electric bass, amps, computer with recording equipment, protools, logic and ableton live

*** Travel Equipment ***
I will bring a bass or guitar. They must have an instrument and some form of amplifier.

*** Specialties ***
Rock, Jazz

nique
Repertoire
Music Theory

I feel it is important to bring all of these elements into all areas of music education, particularly performance.

What is most important is that you are enjoying your music educational experience. Looking forward to your lessons, enjoying your practice time and having a sense of accomplishment. I will push you to exceed your own expectations but you will set the pace as well as determine what music you desire to play.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Baldwin Piano

*** Travel Equipment ***
Ipad
Music Scores
Music Books
Music Theory Books
Music Theory Worksheets
Music Theory Assignment Sheets
Practice Assignment Sheets

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in developing a strong technique at the piano to help the student facilitate dexterity and independant finger strength. With these skills I find you will be able to execute any style of performance with a great deal of ease.
Are you a singer? Learn to accompany yourself.
Vocal Coaching Provided

as learn at their own pace. My goal as a teacher is to give you an enjoyable experience in learning a new instrument and to tailor the lessons based on your interests and goals. After the first few months a beginner student can expect to have learned basic techniques and useful skills to allow them to play simple songs and melodies with ease.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Lessons are taught in a studio with amps, acoustic guitars and electric guitars, ukuleles, along with fretless and fretted bass guitars, drums, microphones, recording equipment and software, are available for a student to use during the lesson time.

*** Specialties ***
Simplifying concepts and process. Breaking down elements of how to play Pop, Jazz, Funk, Blues, Rock, Folk etc.

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.

ions that are placed on students in order for them to succeed. In college, I was the head student researcher on a two-year lab project. I took several upper level science courses including: biochemistry, calculus, organic chemistry, calculus based physics, cell biology, anatomy, and physiology. I studied marine biology in the Virgin Islands and am CPR certified.

*** Lesson Details ***
Voice lessons with me are fun and effective. You can expect to hear improved technique from day one, eventually reaching your long term goals. I begin every lesson aligning the students voice through various vocal warm ups and exercises. We then work together to pick repertoire that will suit the singer'€™s voice and they will enjoy singing. During a lesson we will also cover performance presentation, acting, diction, rhythm, musicality, style, and interpretation.

During tutoring you can expect a personalized plan based on your goals and aspirations. Since every student is different you can be assured we will come up with a plan that is designed just for you. I am a laid back tutor but will be sure to get the most out of you after our time together. Most students see at least a one letter grade improvement. My main goal for every tutoring session is student learning and comprehension.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Piano, recording equipment, large collection of sheet music

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in helping students find their true singing voice.

a under the baton of Maestro James Richman. In addition, she appeared as La Chatte/L’Écureuil in Ravel’s L’Enfant et les Sortilèges. Previously, Ms. Balter joined the roster of Russian Opera Workshop, where she covered Zemfira in Rachmaninoff’s Aleko and the title role in an abridged version of Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet. Balter began the 2016 season as a guest artist in From Heidelberg to Hanover, where she performed Strauss’ Four Last Songs in addition to selections from Lohengrin, Der Freischütz, and Tannhäuser with Lyric Opera Baltimore Artistic Director, James Harp. Highlights of the 2014/15 season include Second Lady in Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte with the Hawaii Performing Arts Festival, Alice (cover) in Verdi’s Falstaff with Harrower Opera Workshop, and An Evening of Opera & Song with the McDonogh Guest Artist Series. Ms. Balter is currently a student of Justin John Moniz. She holds the position of Artistic Administrator at the Hawaii Performing Arts Festival having previously served as Director of Admissions.  

ase basis, tailored to each individual student. Everyone is at a different waypoint on their path so why would I use a predetermined formula to try and help them, am I right? I am excited to meet and grow with every single one of you, let's learn to love the life we have and let our studies become radiant!

I teach all kinds of disciplines from guitar, mandolin, banjo, and clarinet, to creative writing, meditation, and even astrology. If you have any questions about my teaching methods, skill level in a certain discipline, or anything thing you can think of I would be more than happy to answer you!

Musically yours,
Grant