DeJardin Piano

I am an enthusiastic and versatile musician and educator dedicated to the arts, holding a degree in piano performance from the University of La Verne. With over a decade of experience, I have developed a diverse teaching portfolio, which includes creating a free interdisciplinary music program for children through the Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation, designing workshops for adult amateur musicians, and working with students with special needs.

I graduated from the University of La Verne with a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance and Music History, studying under Grace Zhao Baugh and conducting research with Dr. Kathleen Lamkin. For my thesis, I explored the music of Frédéric Chopin, focusing on how his works were primarily performed in the intimate setting of Parisian salons. Throughout my career, I have dealt with performance anxiety, which has led me to explore various methods to help students feel more comfortable with their instruments in a performance setting. I enjoy performing in smaller gatherings and frequently organize salon-style concerts with other musicians and artists at my home.

As an educator, I love teaching students of all ages and introducing them to different kinds of music and art. In 2016 I developed the piano program for LA Kids, which provided underserved children in Los Angeles with free interdisciplinary music and art classes. My teaching philosophy centers on encouraging students to reach their highest potential while also helping them build confidence in their playing, both physically and mentally.

In my free time, I enjoy trying different kinds of coffee, attending concerts, and studying the cello. I am currently a cello student of Jean-Michel Fonteneau at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Some of my students have gone on to study at institutions such as, Azusa Pacific University, The Colburn School, and UCLA.

Currently, I work as a luthier under Linda West and teach piano remotely for the Claremont Community School of Music, where I manage a studio of 13 students and have been teaching since 2015. I also serve as the facilities manager for the National Cello Institute and oversee social media and marketing for various arts organizations. Since 2017, I have been studying the cello, which continues to broaden my artistic interests. As a creative entrepreneur, I am passionate about exploring new opportunities to make meaningful contributions to the arts.

I have been teaching piano lessons remotely via Zoom for the past five years. Currently, all of my lessons are conducted online on Fridays, though I travel to Claremont, California a few times each year to teach in-person at the Claremont Community School of Music, where I remain an active faculty member.