Piano with Roger K.

Drawing on solid jazz theory and technique, Roger is comfortable in a variety of performing and teaching situations. He currently plays all around the bay area in a variety of settings ranging from backing 50's swing and latin dance bands, accompanying singer-songwriters, to leading progressive and chamber jazz projects. Over the last six years, he has taught children and adults of all agents, both in private practice and in classroom settings, while remaining sensitive to the needs and potential of each individual student. Roger studied jazz performance and composition under Myra Melford and Bryan Pardo at UC Berkeley where he received a Bachelors degree. *** Lesson Details *** I like to focus on each student's unique strengths and use them to overcome their trouble spots rather than adhere to a strict curriculum. Students typically get a few exercises (usually to simplify a complex problem) to work on after every lesson, and usually show marked improvement after a few weeks of practice. Common problems include, but are not limited to: Recognizing and learning rhythms and strumming patterns Developing fluidity in lines and chords Expanding soloing techniques and tricks Problems with pain and repetitive stress *** Travel Equipment *** I expect my students to have their own instruments. I can provide everything else that is necessary, including music stands, metronome, etc.. *** Specialties *** I specialize in jazz, though I can teach to most genres and styles because of my emphasis on technique