About
I'm a full-time music instructor. I have a music education degree with over 40 years of experience teaching young children, teens, and adults including 16 years teaching at Vanguard University.
Consider the teaching credentials of your teacher. A qualified and experienced teacher, one with a music education degree, can make a huge difference in the success of the student.
Private instruction allows me to tailor the course to match the goals, interests, and learning pace of the individual student.
I strive to maintain the student's motivation to learn by providing this personalized instruction in a relaxed and fun atmosphere.
The method course I use will emphasize note reading skills, technique, and artistic creativity. It is geared to train the student to be a contemporary musician. Music theory will be taught along the way.
I particularly enjoy seeing students achieve results they didn't think were possible, then observing their satisfaction and joy when they get their piece filmed and uploaded on YouTube to share with family and friends all around the world.
Specialties
Musical styles
Guitar style
Has instrument
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
Karl H.
Gabriela R.
Lynn H.
Leslie B.
Cheryl N.
Susan B.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First, I will find out the musical goals and interests of the student. As the lessons progress, the student may request certain pieces to play or styles to emphasize. Next, if they are not a beginner, I will have them play a piece they know and then sight-read some new music so I can place them in the correct level.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a music education degree with over 40 years of experience teaching private music lessons including 16 years teaching at Vanguard University. I have also served as a church music director where I arranged music, conducted rehearsals, and performed.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Most beginning students take a 30-minute lesson once a week. This provides enough material to practice at home for about 30-minutes a day. So, pricing is based on a 30-minute lesson. 45-minute and 60-minute lessons are available too for an additional charge.
How did you get started teaching?
My father, Everett James, and uncle Mel James opened James Music Studio at 518 S. Main St. in Santa Ana, CA in 1946. Consequently, I started playing music at a young age and have stayed active my whole life. I first started teaching while in high school.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have successfully worked with students of all ages, children through seniors.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Several years ago I had a 7 year old beginning guitar student whose father was serving in the military overseas. He was delighted to be able to see her playing one of his favorite songs via YouTube. I encourage all of my students to prepare and record a piece now and then for my YouTube channel to share with family and friends, particularly for those living outside the US who would otherwise not be able to see their progress. I use a high quality camera and microphone with good lighting to produce high quality music videos.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
When selecting a music teacher, consider their teaching credentials. Do they have a music education degree? A qualified teacher can make a huge difference in the success of the student.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
If you haven't already purchased an instrument, please talk to me first. Getting the correct size and type instrument can allow the student to progress much faster. It's a shame to see children (and even adults) lose interest in music simply because their instrument is uncomfortable to play.