About
Welcome to the Basker Flute Studio!
I provide a proven, comprehensive system for learning to play the flute that is both fun and effective. I teach all ages and levels. There are opportunities to play with others and to perform as well. I have developed a flexible approach in my teaching tailored to the individual student. Students are encouraged to perform in recitals, where they can showcase their musical talents and skills with friends and family. For those who are so inclined, there are opportunities to enter auditions and competitions. As an active member of the Music Teacher's Association of California, I offer my students the opportunity to participate in the Certificate of Merit program. CM provides a system that helps students maintain a steady and focused approach to their musical studies, including music theory, performance skills, technique, ear-training, and sight-reading. In essence, the program assists them in becoming more well-rounded musicians with access to a large audience to share music with. Participation is voluntary. Feel free to call or email me for more information and to schedule an introductory flute lesson. Thank you for choosing to invest in your own or your child’s music education. I look forward to assist you reach your musical goals!
What I enjoy the most about teaching is watching a student take on the challenge of learning to play the flute or a new song and how they are transformed by the process. As their technique and musicality improve, they become a more confident performer and develop a deeper appreciation for music in general. It's great to witness their sense of fulfillment, as they share their music with family, friends, and even strangers.
Highlights
Photos and videos
Reviews
Hao C.
Linda L.
Janine J.
Marjory L.
Patty J.
Arthur M.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
1) I begin by learning of the student's music background and goals.
2) I explain the commitment involved in learning a musical instrument, including practice time and investing in some necessary music accessories.
3) Prior to our first meeting, I confirm that the student has a flute. If they don't, then I provide resources for rental, or purchase.
4) If the student already has a flute, I have them play some notes to ascertain their skill level. I then create a plan to guide them in their development as a flutist.
5) I answer any questions they might have and set up an introductory lesson.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been teaching flute in the San Francisco Bay Area for over 25 years. I have taught private and group lessons at numerous schools, where I have coached hundreds of students, enhancing the level of their school bands and orchestras and successfully preparing them to win auditions and competitions.
I received a Bachelor Degree in Flute Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Additionally, I completed music courses at San Francisco State University, Brevard Music Center in North Carolina, Aspen Music Festival in Colorado, and the California Music Center on the campus of the University of Notre Dame de Namur, in Belmont, California. In San Francisco I studied flute with Paul Renzi, Leone Buyse, Lloyd Gowen, and Barbara Breeden. In Los Angeles I studied with Victor Morosco, and in New York with Keith Underwood. I received advanced coaching from Michel Debost, Thomas Nyfenger, Ransom Wilson, Julius Baker, and Geoffrey Gilbert.
In addition to performing the symphonic repertoire and Broadway musicals in several Bay Area bands and orchestras, as well as on several Alaskan Cruises, I performed in the Jazz-Pop-Folk genres with many notable musicians including singer/guitarist Joan Baez. I regularly performed with jazz pianist Merle Saunders, with composer/pianist Nolan Gasser, and with the eclectic guitarist Richard Patterson.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Individual lessons are conducted on a weekly basis. They range in length from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on age and level of commitment. Tuition is due once a month prior to the first lesson. The price is the same whether there are 4 or 5 lessons in a month. Please contact me for more details.
How did you get started teaching?
I grew up in a family that had a great love of music. As a child, I regularly listened to recordings of the great Classics and as a family we often attended live symphony orchestra concerts. I was fascinated by all of this and intrigued at how the music brought our family closer and gave us all joy. I believe that those early life experiences served as my initial inspiration and motivation to want to play a musical instrument. First my sister played the cello and then later I began playing the flute at age 12. What I enjoy the most about teaching is watching a student take on the challenge of learning to play the flute or a new song and how they are transformed by the process. As their technique and musicality improve, they become a more confident performer and develop a deeper appreciation for music in general. It's great to witness their sense of fulfillment, as they share their music with family, friends, and even strangers.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have taught all types of students, from children to adults, from beginners through advanced, from amateurs to professionals and everyone in between.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I enjoyed the recent projects of preparing some of my students for a Recital and for the Certificate of Merit Evaluation and Testing sponsored by the Music Teachers' Association of California
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
If asked, I might suggest to a client looking for a flute teacher to:
1) Ask the potential teacher to provide information on the teacher's musical education, teaching and performing experience, as well as some references or recommendations from previous clients.
2) Set up an introductory lesson to 'test the waters' prior to committing to regular studies.
3) Once you have chosen a teacher, allow some time for the teacher's method to unfold and for the student to forge a path for themselves as they learn to play a musical instrument. Be patient with yourself or your child. Learning to play a musical instrument is not easy and it takes a while. There are times of frustration and times of victory. If you stick with it, the results are usually worth it!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Here are two questions I might suggest a student consider prior to talking to a potential flute teacher:
1) Am I willing to carve out a little slot in my schedule to practice about 30 minutes a day, several days a week in order to build the proper foundation for learning a musical instrument?
2) Am I willing to learn the material that my teacher assigns to me each week, so that I can progress more rapidly on the flute?