Piano with Marialena C.

Born upstate New York, I started playing piano at 6 years old, taught by my Mother, then later by an accomplished classical pianist. Moving forward to 15 yrs old, I studied piano and theory with a jazz pianist who had his own trio at a nightclub. I continued piano/harpsichord lessons in my later teens from a former Julliard student. 50 years ago, I taught piano to pay my way thru college, receiving a B.M. Degree in Music Theory/Composition with a minor in Piano Performance from San Diego State University, San Diego, CA. My music education is concentrated in the field, inclusive of learning guitar, bass, violin, cello, mandolin, clarinet, trumpet, french horn, and percussion. Afterwards, I became employed as a Choir Director at the Church of the Good Shepard Episcopal Church, Bonita, CA. Then I arranged/composed/toured with Calvin Jackson's 32-pc Jazz Orchestra until 1974. Mid 70's I arranged for Jeff Samaha Singers in Brooklyn, NY. Early 80's I did some music editing for Warner Bros. Studios in NYC, NY. After 2 marriages and 3 children, I resumed giving piano/theory lessons and also added vocal and drama coaching in Long Island, NY. in the 2000's. I have even played for a few weddings and church services! My training and expertise in composition/arranging/theory, as well as playing drums, have helped me tremendously in jamming and playing in bands. I have a small music studio in my home, where I can mentor and share my knowledge and enjoyment of music!