First Star Music Studios

What is your typical process for working with a new student?

I always greet each student and their parents with a cheerful warm welcome.

Proceeding with the previous assignment,                      checking to to see what areas still need some polishing.

If the student has accomplished their weely goals, then I introduce the new lessons for the coming week.

Always rewarding and incourageing to embrace new challenges.

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

In the music business since early 1950's.

Music Major at USC and UCLA.

Attended Berkley School of Music in Boston, MA.

Teaching Since 1960.

Was a sideman playing either

upright bass or rhymth guitar for

Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Buddy Rich, Stan Kenton, Kris Kristofferson to name a few.

Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.

Tuition is always a generous flat fee.

For 5 - 12 y/o $76.50 for the entire month. Once a week for 1/2 hour. With motivational assignments to practice at home.

For more dedicated students with higher expectations,

$149.00 for the entire month. Once a week for 1 hour.

With motivational assignments to practice at home.

How did you get started teaching?

Started teaching guitar on the campus of                           LOS ANGELES CITY COLLEGE to one private student.

The year was 1960.

What types of students have you worked with?

Students from all walks of life including individuls with special needs, international as well as with a few geniuses and some students with comprehension issuses.

From ages 5 to seniors.

Some former student still retain their contact with me.

Describe a recent event you are fond of.

The most recent fond memories are when I invited some of my student s to perform some of my original Christmas Music with me on the grand stage of MALL of AMERICA  and at Minnesota State Faire!!

What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?

Best advice for aquiring a music teacher would be:

1. Have a Greet and Meet in their music studio.

2, Ask for qualifications.

3. Ask lots of questions.

4. Ask for references from other students.

5. Ask what music association - guilds - unions ect. which they are associated. Past or Present.

6. Ask about the studio policies. 

7. Also, ask about the purchase of your instrument. 

What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?

Is the teacher interested in each individual?

Are the lessons in line with the needs of the student?

How long has the teacher been teaching?

Does the studio policy allow for MAKE - UPs?