Personal Statement/Bio:

Playing piano for about 35 years. Teaching since 2001. I work well with children and am very patient. I love music and enjoy seeing the world of music opening up before the student's eyes.

Education/Training:

35 years playing piano. Experience in composition, arranging, and playing in cover bands. Strong theory and performance skills. Can play and sing pop songs as a solo performer or as part of an ensemble. I hold a Certificate of Achievement as a Music Teacher from Orange Coast College.

Teaching Philosophy:

I like my students to have basic reading skills and a strong foundation in theory. Even with beginning students, I like to emphasize the "most important note" ('tonic' to musicians) in any song and show how harmonies work logically with melodies.

I usually begin the lesson with exercises (scales, chord progressions in different keys), then move on to a song from a method book. I prefer the Robert Pace and Frances Clark methods as good introductions to reading. I like to spend the last part of the lesson on a piece of the student's choice--any pop song is fine. All styles of music follow the same basic principles and can be used to teach note reading, harmonic movement, counting, etc.

Music Programs:

I play keyboards in California Jammin', a Top 40 cover band. I also play piano in a Sinatra tribute.

Cancellation Policy:

30 days notice

Promotions:

5% discount if you pay six months in advance.

$20 discount if you refer another student who starts lessons with me.