Drums with Michelle V.

I am a Certified Beginning Piano Teacher as well as an intermediate level teacher. I studied piano at Cerritos College of Norwalk, CA where I completed my teaching piano certificate. I completed my Bachelor of Arts degree in Music with a focus in percussion from CSU Long Beach. I have consistently taught piano, music and drums since 2002. I began my musical career in middle school, playing clarinet in band for three years and then two in my high school marching band. I have traveled the world to perform music. I have been to Brazil to study samba and its many different styles with the World Percussion Program of CSU Long Beach in 2006 and 2007. In 2012, I traveled to Colombia and Venezuela to perform piano with the band of Terratour, a humanitarian group. While touring, we collaborated with local musicians in different cities. You may have noticed from my photos and videos that I'm a Carpenters fan. I sing, play piano and drums. The Carpenters are my musical inspirations and that's exactly how I perform- with tender, love, and care. My friends and I learned many of the Carpenters tunes and collaborated with vocals, piano, steel drums, drums and other percussion joining together to form our band Close To You. My teaching is focused on reading the notes (pitch), proper technique, rhythm and timing. All are a part of the music-making process and should be equally strong. I start with young beginners when they can count, add, subtract and know the alphabet. The student must have the proper instrument and additional equipment, when necessary. The student is required to practice on a regular basis (daily is ideal). The student is also responsible for books, flashcards, and a metronome. Notify me if there is a day and time not available. When signing up a child for the first time, it is best to make a one year commitment so the child can really learn to work alone and develop self-discipline. Parental guidance and support is necessary for success. For adults, commitment to consistent lesson attendance is key. Please notify me of the special need prior to booking lessons so I can accommodate. You have all the ability and power to learn and be great- I'm just going to guide you all the way to your goal!