About
Monica teaches private flute lessons and piano lessons. Lessons are catered to meet every individual’s personal needs. Students will learn techniques to improve technique, tone, rhythm, musicality, breathe control and posture all while playing music they love! Students also have opportunities to perform in studio recitals and competitions. Lessons are available in person in Pleasant Hill/Walnut Creek or virtuually anywhere in the world!
Mission Statement: As an educator my goal is to create and provide positive experiences through music. I believe music is transformative and empowers the lives of students of all ages. I aim to deliver high quality instruction, and performances that will transfer to other areas of life. Giving tools so students can grow musically, emotionally and intellectually. I will provide a curriculum that is unique to every students to bring out their full potential of musical artistry.
Structure of lessons
Lessons are based on annual enrollment, with 12 monthly installments for convenience. This means the tuition will be the same regardless of the number of lessons in the month. (Some months will be 3 others will be 5). This tuition will be all inclusive of recitals, workshops, registration fee, CCMG Certificate program, practice incentives, and Flute ensembles. (Please read more below). The tuition already accounts for a 2 week break in winter, 4 student missed lessons, and 5 studio closures. If a student does not miss those 4 lessons they will be considered ‘bonus’. Be sure to read the FAQ for more of a break down, and info about ‘make-ups’.
Monthly Tuition Rates
$185 Half Hour lessons
$250 Forty Five minute lessons
Included offerings in tuition
Private lessons: 45 weekly lessons taught (41 included in tuition) Your time is reserved only for you. Four of those lessons are built in ‘missed’ lessons. If you miss them no need to make up. If you make all of them there are bonus. (Remember you do not pay more for the 5th week months).
Recitals: There will be at least 2 in person recitals. The dates will be announced by September.
Two virtual recitals: There will be 2 virtual recitals. This is a great way to perform for family that might be farther away, and gain extra experience.
Flute ensembles: There will be at least 2 ensembles. Students will be partnered together. Music will be sent and there will be a rehearsal/workshop together. Dates will be announced in September.
Piano workshops: For pianist we will have a workshop before the recitals. It will be a rehearsal, as well as education games/party.
CCMG Certificate Program: Students will have the opportunity to play for an adjudicator for a certificate. This is a way to keep track of progress, get feed back from another instructor, and have an evaluation experience. This is included in tuition. (I will also support aiding students for Royal Conservatory Music exams or any other state/national exams).
Practice incentives: To make learning fun we will have ‘music bucks’ this year. Students in person or online, will earn ‘fake money’ for practicing or completing tasks. They will turn this in for fun rewards.
Medals: Each student will receive a medal every year for their efforts.
Text and email support: If you have a question in the week, please message me. Often I can answer simple questions over text. If you have a recording for audition, send in advance and I will review.
Registration Fee Included : I will give supplemental music to all students. (Note method books will be purchased by students, some competitions require original copies of music as well. I buy studio licenses when ever possible, and have an ASCAP license for all public performances of our studio).
Highlights
Payment methods
Specialties
Students age
Student experience
Able to read music
Musical styles
Student has instrument
Lesson length
Photos and videos
Reviews
gina W.
linda R.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
We start with the trial lesson, during that time we investigate the goals of the student and what music would be suitable. After that we arrange the lessons in terms of warm-up, A study or étude, A technical exercise, a piece of music, and a duet or a fun piece of contemporary music. And all the music we focus on clarity of tone and musical expression.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a bachelors of music and flute performance from Eastman school of music in Rochester New York. I'm also a recording artist, my last album reached the top 10 charts of the billboards.
i'm a member of the national flute Association, California music educators Association, Contra Costa music guild, and a Grammy voting member.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Lessons are arranged as 30, 45, or 60 minute lessons. The rates are $45 for the 30 minute lesson, $60 for the 45 minute lesson, or $80 for the hour lesson. All lessons include monthly recitals (optional), Group classes, and a certificate of achievement program at the end of the year.
How did you get started teaching?
I actually started teaching when I was 14, just neighborhood kids. But I knew this is something I wanted to do as a career, and went and got the training for it. I like sharing music with the next generation.
What types of students have you worked with?
i've worked with students as young as five and as old as 95. I love starting beginners, and seeing the excitement of starting a new instrument. I also enjoy working with students that I've been playing for a couple years, it's rewarding to see students make and achieve the goals that we make in lessons.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I've been extremely proud to be the founding teacher of the Contra Costa music guild. We create events virtually. Students love participating in the recitals, and seem to enjoy the workshops.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would suggest students take a trial lesson, and ask lots of questions. What kind of music would we work on? What is one area you think I need to improve upon? Where are my strengths? How would you help me get to my goal?
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
First lessons can be a little nerve-racking. It's not a bad idea to have a couple of questions for the teacher. It's always helpful to understand what a student has worked on before. If you can compile some of your favorite older music, that will be very helpful!