Trumpet with Chris O.

I've been teaching students from complete beginners to college level for a decade. I hold a Bachelor's in Music from the University of Michigan ('16), a Master's in Music from Penn State University ('18), and a Graduate Certificate from the University of Southern California ('20). Through my years performing, I've played orchestral music, brass quintet, jazz combo and big band, church worship band, rock and ska bands, and even marching band! I'd love to set up a time to meet with you and help you achieve your goals with music! MY EXPERIENCE I received my first major experience teaching at the collegiate level while I was a teaching assistant at Penn State University. From 2016-2018 I taught 15 college students ranging from undeclared freshmen to a 3rd year Physics PhD student. Moving to Southern California, I began teaching at LAMUSART, an arts school serving the community of East Los Angeles, providing quality and affordable lessons and opportunities to students in the area. I encourage students to seek out and create their own performance opportunities. Regardless of experience or disposition to perform in front of crowds, I believe everyone can find joy playing their instrument. MY METHOD I emphasize meeting the student where they are. Teaching is not a one-size-fits-all kind of deal and your lessons will be custom tailored to fit your goals and learning style. I start by taking into account the student’s interests and often arrange and write the music that interests them. For more skilled instrumentalists, I will work with you to establish a practice routine to emphasize my “fundamentals-forward” approach in order to help you succeed in all your endeavors. At the core, making music should be a fun experience and an outlet of self-expression. LESSON STYLE I am goal oriented in my own career, so I instill the same mindset in my students. At the beginning of each month, we will have a check-in to establish both short-term and long-term goals. The previous month’s goals will be analyzed and our approach going forward will adjust accordingly to continue our trajectory. Musicians need a reason to practice. That is why I encourage my students to seek out performance opportunities in their homes and out in public. Even sharing one short song with your parents or friends can be a fun and fulfilling experience - so no performance opportunity is too small!