About
I personalize my lessons according to my students' interests while still teaching them the standard of performing classically. I create small goals in order to reach large goals that will ultimately create a sense of pride and accomplishment to every student. For example, one student wanted to play a BTS song (the Korean pop group) on the clarinet and we worked our way from learning basics to playing the entire song!
Bachelor's Degree - Bob Cole Conservatory of CSU Long Beach
Master's Degree - CSU Northridge.
I am very familiar with online lessons as well!
I have been teaching clarinet privately for since 2015 with students ranging from elementary to high school, but I am always willing to teach anyone!
I enjoy seeing my students improve every week and seeing the look of "I can't believe I did that!" when they improve. My students have always been so fun to be around that the hour goes by so quickly. Getting to know my students and what they like outside of music is something I truly enjoy every day.
Highlights
Payment methods
Specialties
Students age
Student experience
Able to read music
Musical styles
Student has instrument
Lesson length
Photos and videos
Reviews
Raeesa S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I ask about their experience. If it has been a while, I ask what can they remember. I ask about their goals and start planning with them their own individualized curriculum. Depending on their proficiency, we can start on an Essential Elements book for new students, Rose etude books and scales for intermediate, or standard repertoire for advanced students. We will keep your personal goal in mind, but these exercises and books will help you progress faster and more efficiently.
Beginner:
Each lesson, we will work on breathing, note learning, proper fingerings, rhythm, and more, then start with the assignment from the week before and make sure we reached our goal for each exercise. Then we will move onto the new exercises.
Intermediate:
We will begin with you performing a solo piece, and I will go into detail for any corrections needed as well as phrasing. Depending on proficiency, we will continue with the same piece or move onto a new one for you to be performance ready. If desired, these pieces we practice together can be used to enter competitions!
Advanced:
We will begin with you performing your piece, and I will help you improve your playing by asking you questions about your own performance such as inspirations, mental picture, etc. We can use these pieces for competitions and honor band or university auditions.
**Each individual student and session is highly individualized and may not 100% reflect the above processes.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have had my own studio from 2012-2015 and frequently am a substitute for other instructors currently. I was principal clarinetist for CSU Northridge Wind Ensemble and led the clarinet section to becoming a more cohesive section in the ensemble. I also led my chamber groups perform difficult pieces live and pre-recorded. I have taught band and orchestra ranging from kindergarten to high school from beginning to advanced levels. Currently I perform in the Moorpark Orchestra.
I have a Bachelor's Degree from CSU Long Beach and a Master's Degree from CSU Northridge in clarinet performance. I also am certified to teach middle school and high school band and orchestra.
sample of chamber work (social distance and prerecorded)
https://youtu.be/3GofnsOehkc
sample of clarinet with piano (social distance and prerecorded)
https://youtu.be/nDL5jkGfn4U
sample of clarinet choir (social distance and prerecorded)
https://youtu.be/7nYAE7YwMug
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$60 for 60 minutes (best for high school and adv students)
$50 for 45 minutes
$35 for 30 minutes (best for beginners)
How did you get started teaching?
I got started locally from people I knew who wanted lessons. My first student was a high school student who wanted to audition into a university in Los Angeles and she made it in!
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students from ages 5-20 with no experience to advanced experience. Some students work with me privately and others in group settings. I am open and willing to teach anyone from any age!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Every chamber performance with two instrumentalists who "battle" for dominance in the melody and countermelody is so fun for me. I and a violin once were acting like we were fighting on-stage bringing a more entertaining performance that all my colleagues laughed at!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Ask what their curriculum looks like and what experience they've had. Get to know them as individuals.
What reeds and other equipment should they prepare to buy/use.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Ask about instrument pricing (if new student). If an adult is asking for their child, make sure your child is motivated to play and practice. Keep in mind types of reeds and size you must purchase. Books or music required from you.
Cancellation/late policy.
Payment method.
Online equipment and websites such as Zoom, discord, google, etc. Microphone set up, lighting, etc.