Piano with Jay V.

Hey guys! I'm Jay, and I'll make this short. I love teaching a variety of subjects because of my variety of experiences--Undergraduate and Graduate music degrees from USC, write music for the No. 1 kids' show "LEGO Ninjago," performed music all around the world. I've taught ages 4 to 72, and nothing is more rewarding than sharing what I've learned with the person who will do it next! *** Lesson Details *** Why do people want to play an instrument, or learn to sing? What is their ultimate goal? Well, to each answer to that question, there is a plan. If someone wants to be the world's greatest guitarist, pianist, bassist or singer? I'll put them on the treadmill of rudimentary exercises, music theory, and performances. If someone wants to play socially for other people, repertoire will consist of the Great American Party Songbook (including Dave Matthews, Sublime, and yes, even Journey) and the lessons will be geared toward big chords and memorization skills. Or if someone just wants to enjoy music in their life with no agenda...then it's all about the basics of the instrument, learning to play their absolute favorite songs, and understanding how pieces of wood, steel and our bodies can be used to express life's greatest secrets. Lessons are always fun, comfortable and relaxed, but never boring. I'm patient and good-humored, but I'll keep you on your toes. Because there's always more music to uncover. Is this note in tune? What's that rhythm again? How does my favorite band do it, and what's the reason behind it? The biggest thing I believe in: To play your favorite music on it. The easiest way to fall in love with a musical instrument, is to play. So bring your iPod and I'll show you the steps to be able to rock out along to that song you've got on repeat. Let's face it, playing an instrument and singing are awesome. In these lessons, that truth is preserved. *** Studio Equipment *** 88 key Yamaha weighted keyboard with over 1,000 sounds perfect for performance simulation and education about the rock ensemble and orchestra Taylor 614 Concert Edition Acoustic-Electric guitar Aria Pro 4-string electric bass guitar Rare Epiphone Sheraton I jazz electric guitar Manifold percussion instruments Extensive library of music of all genres, all available for teaching and instruction *** Specialties *** Styles/genres: Rock & Roll, Latin, Jazz, Funk, Southern, Eastern music, alternate tunings (open tunings for Southern music, drop tunings for hard rock) Methods: I employ a combination of physical technique, music theory, ear training (especially when tuning the instrument), and stylistic flexibility. Right away I get the student's mind thinking about the big musical picture (not just what they are doing with the guitar, but why). I also go out of my way to find out the things that would make the student enjoy music and guitar playing even more, and whatever that is we will incorporate that into the lesson plan.