Mansfield Music

Normally, we start with a Trial Lesson. You can then see how I work, and if we are a good fit. If you choose to take ongoing lessons, then you can register for weekly lessons. I try to find a method of working with each student. "One size does not fit all." Having said that, I do believe in working with method books, and I endeavor to find the right book for each student. I do teach students to read music. But I also encourage and work with students who want to improvise, and I teach many styles, including jazz, folk, "soft" rock, and pop, as well as classical music. 

I studied flute, sax, piano, and music composition at Interlochen Arts Academy, Oberlin Conservatory, University of Illinois, and University of the State of New York.

I started my studies as a classical musician, later I studied jazz. From the age of 19 I have been a professional musician, playing classical, jazz, rock, folk, and pop music. I have performed and recorded in Europe and the United States, for over 30 years.

Also, for many years I worked on the production of many music publications, including the well-known piano methods of Kjos Music Co., and jazz books of Sher Music.

Normally, we start with a Trial Lesson. You pay for this lesson at the time of the lesson. There is no further cost or obligation. If you choose to take ongoing lessons, then you would register for ongoing lessons. I work with students once a week on an ongoing basis. I teach all lessons here at my residential studio near the North Berkeley BART station.

The current cost for a Trial Lesson is $39 for a half-hour lesson, and $74 for a one/hour lesson. Time permitting, I can also offer 45-minute lessons at $58.

If you decide to Register for Lessons, there is an initial Registration Fee of $35 and then you pay in advance per month using our AutoPayment system. 

The current cost for ongoing lessons is $156/month for half-hour lessons (ie, 4 lessons); and $296/month for one-hour lessons.

We use Studio AutoPay, a system used nationwide by thousands of studios. Through this system we accept payment by credit card or eCheck.

We also offer gift lessons, drop-in lessons, and other options, so please inquire. Drop-in lessons (occasional lessons) are at a slightly higher cost.

I began teaching as a Music Theory Tutor at Interlochen Arts Academy when I was still a student. Later, throughout college and throughout my professional music career, I had some private students. From the 1980s onward, I taught at Cazadero Music and Arts Camps, and Jazz Camp West. I was also a coach with Oakland East Bay Symphony (OEBS) for their School Music Program. Around 2003 I decided to start private teaching full time. Prior to that time, I was working in Music Pubishing with many music book authors, including the Bastiens and Keith Snell of Kjos Music, and with the Sher Music Jazz Publications.

I have worked with students of all ages and skill levels. The youngest students I have worked with are 4 years old, these are beginning piano students. The oldest students have been retirees in their 80s and even 90s. 

If you are serious about learning an instrument, it is best to commit to at least several months of weekly, ongoing lessons. You must be willing to practice at least a lttle bit each day. Realize that it will take a long time to be proficient at an instrument, and that weekly lessons are important.

Are you willing to commit to weekly, ongoing lessons for at least several months? Are you willing to try to practice every day, if possible? Are you choosing a teacher who is located close to your home?