Music Teachers

Nazan Aktas, Online

Nazan Aktas

Cello

Teaches Online Only

"I wanted to write something spectacular, because that's how I feel during and after my lessons. I'm an instructor in my field. It can be hard taking instruction for something I know nearly nothing about. Nazan has, and will continue, to help me fulfill this dream of mine. I cannot recommend her highly enough. She is really one of the most genuine people that I know and a terrific instructor." Larry (Adult Student)

When I was 14 years old, I saw my first rock concert. The band was Apocalyptica, an all cello (plus drums) metal band from Finland. I had no idea who they were and had never listened to metal before, but I instantly fell in love with their music and with the cello. As soon as I was able, I got my hands on a cello and started taking lessons, and I’ve never stopped!

I teach beginning-to-intermediate level. Students come to cello lessons with different skills, learning preferences and styles, and reasons for wanting to play music. I do my best to understand and adapt to what works best for them. I have experience playing many different musical genres and do a lot of sonic exploration with my students, who would say that I am a patient and calming presence to be with as they are exploring their cellos, and that we have a lot of fun together!

My approach to teaching is to create a unique and relevant experience for each student based on their age, personality, level, and goals. There is so much music in the world, and so much to learn, my hope is that I’m able to create an open and friendly environment that encourages listening, exploration, a desire to practice, and most importantly, enjoyment. When appropriate, I will include method books such as Suzuki or Strictly Strings.

I earned a Bachelor of Music from Sonoma State University, with a concentration in Performance and Jazz Studies and have been teaching for over three years. I’m passionate about music and as a life-long learner I love doing my part to pass on the knowledge needed to keep this art form alive. In addition to cello ( I have a very nice jean-Pierre Lupot copy and I love her!) I sing and I love to listen to the bass, piano and sarod (a stringed instrument used on the Indian subcontinent), gravitating to the beautiful sound these instruments produce. Pre-pandemic, I performed locally with colleagues and friends and participated in an ensemble piece for Ali Akbar College of Music’s 50th year anniversary concert.

Nicco Alifano

Nicco Alifano
Guitar, Ukulele

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

“I began guitar lessons with Nicco at age 54, with no background in music or guitar, just a desire to learn. While learning to play the guitar will be a lifelong journey I am happy to say that after two years I can read music (something I never thought I would be able to do) and play the guitar with real proficiency thanks to Nicco’s teaching and coaching. If you are serious about wanting to learn to play guitar, or are a seasoned guitar player looking to improve your skills, I would highly recommend Nicco for your instruction.”—Todd R

“Nicco Rocks! My two boys, 9 and 11, both love having Nicco as their guitar teacher…he really knows how to motivate the kids to play music. Sometimes I am completely surprised with the songs they work on together. Nicco seems to be able to adapt any kind of music to guitar, from popular radio songs, to more eclectic new age pieces, or even video game theme songs. Anything my kids throw at him as a request to learn, he will figure out how to teach it to them. If you really want your children (or yourself!) to get into music, I would recommend Nicco.” —Lori, (Wolfgang 9 and Atlas 11 years old)

My musical journey began at age 7 when I told my parents I wanted to learn to play the piano. Three years later I realized that guitar was really my instrument so I switched gears and began my lessons with the great Paul Geller (another Magic Flute Music Lessons teacher), who understood my passion and helped me cultivate it such that I was fortunate enough to be accepted into the Rock Band and Choir programs at Marin School of the Arts (MSA) at Novato High School. At MSA I was surrounded by other students and teachers who shared my love for music and I dove deeply into music theory, composition and production. Through the Jazz Choir and Concert Choir programs I was able to study voice, another one of my favorite instruments!

Students like taking lessons with me because I make it fun by letting them pick the songs we’re going to learn together, an approach that really helps inspire and motivate a new player. Through the songs they want to learn, I’m able to challenge them and push their playing boundaries a little bit by teaching them progressively more challenging songs and techniques. While learning a new song or skill, I like to allow students time to experiment and think things through on their own. I won’t interrupt their process with teaching advice if I can see they are in the middle of figuring it out for themselves as I find this is a great way to build confidence.

I teach all levels, kids and adults, and work to make lessons fun and practice a priority. Starting with simple songs of the student’s choosing ensures that when they’re practicing at home they’re having fun and learning to enjoy playing the instrument even more (vs. skipping practice because they are tired of running scales). For example, maybe they are a huge fan of Green Day, if so we could start with the song Good Riddance that features mostly beginner open chords. From there, we could move onto another Green Day song that features power or bar chords, or other more challenging styles of play, continuing to progress one step at a time. This way, the student is learning, progressing, and improving their playing through the music they love which will motivate them to practice more often. Once they have some experience and a comfort level with their instrument, we dive into the more technical side and music theory.

I earned a bachelor’s degree from California State University at Chico where I focused on studying the Recording Arts and voice and I spent my last semester in Sweden studying Music Business and Industry as part of the Direct Exchange Study Abroad program. Since my return in 2017, I’ve been teaching guitar lessons and writing and recording my own music. During this time, I have also worked on various music projects and albums with and for other musicians.

Chaco Amaze

Chaco Amazè

Saxophone (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Baritone)

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

Although I teach and play all types of saxophones, the tenor sax is my favorite instrument. Of all the melody instruments, the tenor sax is the most versatile and has the most potential. With music performance as my passion and my specialty, I play quite frequently at large festivals, public clubs, live-streamed, and private parties and events in a wide variety of bands, including big bands, jazz combos, rock bands, Latin bands, and reggae groups. By far the best part about performing is improvisation. In the moment, creating with a group of musicians who have honed their craft is the most fulfilling experience in life.

If you asked my students about me, they would tell you that when it comes to the sax, I know what I’m talking about. And, after a few lessons, they have more than just a teacher, they also have a friend. As a young teacher, I quickly connect with students near my age; I’m in touch with what is popular and trending in the music scene. That said, older students also enjoy lessons with me because of my obsessive, almost maniacal understanding of Saxophone, especially after they hear me play.

I teach all age groups, from kindergartners to adults in their 70s—you can learn to play the sax at any age. The curriculum I prescribe can vary drastically from student to student based on skill level and interest. For a beginner we may focus on learning the fundamentals of musicianship—names of notes, time-feel development, and reading music. For a more intermediate player, we may focus on scales, proper airflow, articulation, and improving finger dexterity. For an advanced player, music theory application, transcription, and ear development may be where we pay the most attention. For all levels, tone development is often the most important objective. I also teach more niche techniques and concepts such as altissimo, overtones, circular breathing, growling, advanced jazz theory, and negative harmony.

I attended Sonoma State as a Jazz Studies major with an emphasis on performance and I have been performing, professionally, for over 10 years. As a teacher, I have taught privately, in groups, and in elementary/middle/high schools for the same amount of time. In addition, I’m a Brass and Woodwind technician at The Magic Flute where I help customers maintain their instruments to get the best sound and playing performance out of them.

Richard Batelaan

Richard Batelaan
Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute, Piano

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

As a multi-instrumentalist and composer, Richard has been involved in music his whole life. His music strives to find the balance between complexity, artistry, and accessibility. He earned a double major in music performance and physics at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, and has gigging experience on saxophone, piano, vocals, flute, and clarinet; as well as research experience in architectural acoustics, bioacoustics, and rocket acoustics. Jazz and classical music influence his composition style. His compositions range from classical piano to jazz combo and big band arrangements. He has performed with various saxophone ensembles, jazz combos, the UNL Jazz Orchestra, and UNL Jazz Singers, as well as solo classical saxophone and piano works.

Steve Bergman

Steve Bergman
Clarinet, Saxophone, Flute, Recorder

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

“Steve's teaching and encouragement have helped me to grow technically, overcoming hurdles to become a better player. I am constantly impressed by the wealth of knowledge and experience Steve possesses and is willing to share.”—Charlotte, 18 years old

I play several woodwind instruments and enjoy them all. I have appeared as clarinet soloist with the San Francisco Symphony and have also appeared at the Monterey Jazz Festival with the saxophone. I have played flute in many settings, primarily in pit orchestras for shows. I love the recorder, both as a pre-piano instrument for young children and as a serious instrument. There is much beautiful music written for the recorder that is underappreciated.

My students benefit from my diverse and broad understanding of music. I have spent my life amassing musical knowledge in many styles and can easily write down a tune or an exercise on a moment’s notice. Working with me, students gain a solid knowledge of the instrument they are trying to learn. I make lessons fun, and I achieve that from a professional performer’s point of view. In the beginning, I use methods such as Standard of Excellence and Essential Elements, but more importantly I write out tunes and exercises that I have developed. I strive to distill my many years of performing experience into a concise form that a student can easily understand. I have found the personal touch of using my own materials aids learning tremendously.

I enjoy teaching all age levels and often transition from working with a 1^st grader on “Hot Cross Buns”, to helping a student on an audition for Juilliard. I enjoy the full range of musical expression. Currently, my youngest student is a 1^st-grade recorder player and my oldest student is a 91-year-old tenor saxophone player. Many of my students have gone on to Marin Youth Orchestra, San Francisco Youth Orchestra, California All-State Band, San Francisco Conservatory, California Jazz Conservatory, Stanford Jazz Camp, Cazadero Music Camp, Interlochen Arts Camp, among others.

My approach to teaching is to rely on insights and materials that I have developed over many years of performing and teaching. I like to make things fun, but I also strive to inspire and motivate my students to excel. I play the instruments that I teach on a high level. I use demonstration to help students understand concepts and I encourage them to participate in ensembles to broaden their perspective and grow. It gives them something to practice for!

I have a bachelor’s degree in music performance from University of North Texas, one of the nation’s premiere music schools. I have been teaching private woodwind lessons for over 45 years, have been a faculty member of the San Domenico Music Conservatory for 28 years and I perform on all the instruments I teach at a professional level in various ensembles around the Bay Area, the country, and the world.

Jill Brindel

Jill Brindel
Cello

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

Jill Rachuy Brindel has been a cellist with the San Francisco Symphony since 1980 and a member of the Navarro Trio for more than twenty years. This ensemble was hailed as “the premier trio of Northern California” by Terry McNeill writing for North Bay Classical Music.

She studied at Indiana University and Chicago Musical College and was formerly Assistant Principal Cellist of the Lyric Opera of Chicago Orchestra, Principal Cellist of the Mendocino Music Festival for its first six years, cellist for the Navarro Quartet, and a member of the Houston Symphony. She has performed chamber music at Kohl Mansion, the Russian River Chamber Festival, Old First Church, the Ralston Chamber Series, Rossmoor, Chamber Music Sundaes, the San Francisco Symphony Chamber series, and at Sonoma State University, where the Navarro Trio is in residence. In 2006 she returned to the Mendocino Music Festival as Principal Cellist and chamber soloist and in 2009 she became co-director of the Emerging Artists Program at the festival.

Ms. Brindel actively promotes the music of her late father, composer Bernard Brindel. She is a private instructor of cello as well as the coach for the cello section of the SFS Youth Orchestra. She has given seminars on audition techniques to students at the University of Nevada at Reno and the New World Symphony. In 2011 the San Francisco Symphony selected her to hold the Gary & Kathleen Heidenreich Second Century Cello Chair. On August 23, 2014 the Navarro Trio played in the opening concert in Schroeder Hall, the new Chamber music hall at Sonoma State University. She has been an instructor of cello at Sonoma State University since 2015.

Drina Brooke, Offsite

Drina Brooke
Piano, Recorder

Teaches ONLY at her studio in Novato

“For two years now Drina has been working with my daughters, teaching them piano. Drina’s love and respect for music is absolutely infectious. She delights in music and my children are intrigued by her joy and high level of playing...they get swept up in the excitement and are enthusiastic...which Drina uses to teach technique and to get down-to-business with difficult music...we highly recommend her.” —Kirsten, (Teya 9, Jensen 6 years old)

Drina Brooke comes to The Magic Flute with 35 years teaching and playing experience, a deep love of music, a great connection with children and adults alike, and a track record of inspiring her students to learn the joy and love of music as art. She has been praised by San Francisco Symphony cellist Barbara Bogatin as “an exceptionally fine piano and recorder teacher”, colleagues have written of her “remarkable enthusiasm” and she remains very popular with parents and students.

Drina teaches piano (beginning through early advanced) and recorder to all ages and levels (beginning through collegiate levels), though she does not recommend starting children less than seven years old on the recorder as their hands may not easily reach all the finger holes and this can be frustrating for little kids. That said, there are always exceptions. Her aim is to inspire musical art, an awareness of anatomy to foster outstanding ergonomic form, and to learn the art of How to Practice, which is an art of its own. Students learn phrasing, harmonies, history, and develop fine-tuned listening skills. Lessons for children include playing games, and their instruments, when reading music.

Students love her enthusiasm and she quickly develops rapport. She also has a unique method for helping people overcome stage fright and the fear of failure as they embark on their musical journey. Parents have praised Drina’s ability to hold very high standards without pressure, while a colleague wrote that her conducting and teaching “are infectious and motivating, without being pedantic or threatening”. She has been praised by parents as “very dedicated”.

Very often, students who take lessons with Drina fall in love with music and deepen their relationship to it. Students grow greatly in their full artistic process. Awareness, in regard to listening and playing, is a fundamental underpinning for continued musical growth. Drina’s goal is to help people understand the learning process itself, while greatly improving their technical form and reading skills. The posture, anatomy and movement techniques learned in the lesson, benefit in all areas of life, from sports to computer work, as well as in music.

Right from the very first lesson, in addition to learning reading and playing skills, we begin the work of phrasing and harmonies. Students will listen to themes and variations, then make up their own based on simple songs and “note spills” based on simple chords. The goal is to inspire, and to train the ear, which is the crux of all music! Music is a listener’s art!

Kids and adults beam with pride as they close their eyes when playing simple chords and scales, as a way to really get to know their instrument, and to gain deep awareness of their own playing form. Very gradually, students will learn to play short mini-phrases, extending to longer pieces as the years go on, with their eyes closed. Kids in particular, love to show this off! This fosters bodily awareness, while the ear is free to hear many details in the music, fine-tuning listening and musical interpretation, both alike. Reading music is very important, sight reading is required on a daily basis once students are ready, and it is included in every lesson. Kids will play “musical hopscotch” and other games to learn note reading. Children gain awareness of phrasing, chords and rhythms through movement to live music.

When working with adults, there is an intellectual component as they tend to have more questions, and need for explanation and discussion. For children, whose minds work more creatively, Drina uses mental imagery to describe the effect she’s looking for, particularly on the musical level. Students are encouraged to stay in touch with Drina during the week if they have any questions about how to practice their assigned pieces and exercises. There is no extra charge for five or ten minutes of Drina’s time during the week. Thank you for your dedication and commitment, and welcome aboard!

Drina studied piano in Vienna, Austria and harpsichord with Tamara Loring while majoring in music at Dominican University. To great acclaim, she has taught anatomically-informed ergonomic playing workshops to colleagues and students alike. Kids love this material, asking very smart questions! Her background as recorder chamber musician, with members of American Bach Soloists, is based on deep inspiration from her studies with internationally-acclaimed Eva Legene at the prestigious Indiana University School of Music, where she majored in Early Music and the recorder. Her recorder playing was noticed by six celebrities including the legendary Marion Verbruggen and lutenist-scholar Thomas Binkley. Life-long, Drina became ignited with the love of music from her private studies with Helga Tutschek, a member of the Concentus Musicus of Vienna. Teaching remains as fresh and fun to Drina as on the very first day!

Liz Clark-Mathis

Liz Clark-Mathis
Violin, Viola

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

“I can't express enough how grateful I am for the 9 years I worked with Liz. From our very first lesson, her kindness and nurturing approach made all the difference in my learning experience. She created a warm and supportive environment that allowed me to explore the violin without fear of making mistakes.

Liz not only provided excellent technical instruction but also instilled in me a deep love for music. Her patience and encouragement helped build my confidence and develop my skills at a pace that was right for me. She helped me uncover the emotional nuances of each piece and taught me how to convey stories through my phrasing. Every lesson was filled with enthusiasm and personalized feedback that kept me motivated and made me strive for perfection in my artistry.

I truly believe that her caring nature helped me grow not only as a violinist but also as a person. I would highly recommend Liz to anyone looking for a wonderful teacher who genuinely cares about their student's progress and well-being!” --Sienna S

I started playing violin at 9 years old and have never looked back. As a classically trained violinist, I’ve played extensively in Symphony and Chamber Orchestras. One of my biggest, and most exciting, experiences as a musician was playing in the World’s Music Festival in Vienna, Austria with the Marin Youth Orchestra under the direction of Hugo Rinaldi. Our orchestra placed third in the world. Since then, I’ve studied and performed in numerous genres including Celtic, Jazz, Rock, and American Fiddle, and I’ve added singing and acting to my resume of study and performance.

For over 20 years in Marin County, I’ve taught violin to students of all levels, from beginner to advanced, taking students starting violin at age 5 to the top high school youth orchestras. My goal in teaching is to make music fun and inspiring and I accomplish that by being patient and gearing individual lessons to the student's learning style.

Providing a positive experience while instilling the fundamentals of music and technique of the instrument is what I strive to accomplish through lessons with me. I love watching each student grow and develop at their own pace and one of my favorite moments is when the “light bulb” goes off and the student discovers and experiences what they have been working towards. Whether it comes from playing a song or realizing a positional technique, it's a unique, shared feeling of accomplishment for both of us.

Chris Collins

Chris Collins
Guitar, Piano, Ukulele

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

Chris studied music at UC Santa Cruz and College of Marin and has been teaching private guitar, piano, bass, and ukulele lessons for 30 years in the Bay Area, as well as serving as Musical Director for local student vocal workshops. He has performed keyboards and guitar for numerous international live acts such as Neal Schon’s Journey Through Time, Big Brother and The Holding Company and Shana Morrison. Chris is currently a touring musician with Super Diamond, the Neil Diamond Tribute. His original compositions, recordings and productions have been credited in feature films (David Fincher’s Gone Girl), international ad campaigns (Coca-Cola, IKEA , Adidas) and international recording artists (Journey’s Neal Schon, Talking Heads’ David Byrne “True Stories”).

Tom Conneely

Tom Conneely
Guitar, Banjo, Ukulele, Voice

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

“Tom can teach it all, to any level learner. But it’s his experience as a touring/gigging musician that makes him the perfect teacher for anyone looking to start playing live. He will improve your technique, theory, and improvisational skills, as well as help you understand and improve how your guitar tone works in a live setting playing with a band." —Michelle

I began playing music around 12 years old when my late friend Alex Denny, who I thought was the coolest dude around, began taking guitar lessons. Learning my first power chords and “Back in Black” by AC/DC was the most exciting thing! It felt like it was something truly my own and it felt limitless. Even as a little kid, playing with friends was always the most empowering thing, there was this deep sense of purpose and energy just being around music, other people that played music, and the instruments themselves.

I teach all ages and levels, from 5 years old to 80! As a teacher, my goal is to help students expand their musical vocabulary, be it understanding and utilizing musical theory, expanding their repertoire, getting to know their instrument, or any other aspect of music. I look to each individual student to understand their musical goals and what they want to achieve and help them learn how, and what, to practice.

Students benefit from my experience in working with people of all ages, reflected in my patience with beginners and advanced players alike. Adult students in particular, seem to enjoy the practical and performance experience I share based on having spent so much of the last several years on the road in various capacities. Having toured across the country and in Europe I’m able to offer a unique view and perspective.

My students, across the board, would say that my approach to teaching is first and foremost about maintaining the joy and excitement that comes with playing music. I want students to feel excited when they pick up a guitar or uke, or sit down at the piano, or even look at it from across the room. I don’t want people to feel intimidated by the perceived difficulty of the instrument, material or concepts. I try to convey that music, at any level, is a personal journey that you are allowed to define for yourself. Having fun with the instrument and the process of learning is one of my primary goals and I think my students would all say they are having fun when taking lessons with me.

Regardless of instrument, first and foremost I like to find out what my student is specifically looking to learn or accomplish musically. For some, it’s learning a specific song or style, for others it’s a more complete understanding of theory or the fretboard. Whatever it is, I try to use their specific interests as a gateway to a fuller musical understanding of the material and instrument.

Additionally, I work to match concepts to a song, at least in the beginning of working with a new student. If it’s banjo, we’ll learn specific shapes and rolls paired with the practical application found in easy traditional songs. Guitar is similar. There’s only so much use in learning basic concepts or shapes if you’re not exploring them in an interesting concept. For example, with CAGED chords on the guitar, we’ll start by learning the shapes, then changing between them with a tune like “Hey Joe” that literally uses all those chords. Or if we’re learning introductory power chords, minor pentatonic, etc., I’ll match that with something like “Back in Black” by AC/DC.

Gradually, I find out what music my student is interested in learning, picking it apart, or applying broader theory concepts to it with the goal of digging into songs or playing that keeps my students wanting to pick up their instrument and practice and play!

I grew up in Marin County, attended Redwood High School and upon graduation was enrolled at UC Santa Cruz where I studied history and classical guitar. Over the past decade, I have made my way as a songwriter, singer and “for hire” musician, touring both nationally and across Europe, from the smallest clubs to festival stages and everywhere in between. I focus much of my own playing these days on flat-picking bluegrass and country guitar in the style of two of my guitar heroes, Clarence White and Don Rich.

For me, music is a lifelong journey!

Sharron Drake

Sharron Drake
Violin, Viola, Piano

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

I started playing piano at 5 and violin at 9 years old. My cousins got my attention when they told me about a “candy wielding” piano teacher. I looked forward to my candy reward at the end of each lesson! Today, I play violin, viola, piano, a bit of guitar, and a smidgeon of bass.

It’s important to me that each and every student gets the most out of their music lessons and to accomplish that, I like to find out what works for them, then develop their individualized lesson plan accordingly.

I’ve been teaching on and off for 3 years, teaching students at every level from beginner children and adults, to advanced children and adults. The consistent thing you’ll hear about me from my students, no matter what level, is that I make lessons fun!

There is a balance between keeping lessons positive and accessible versus technical and demanding. If a student is ready to work to a high standard, I am available to provide critical and constructive feedback in a direct manner. If a student is learning and needs encouragement, a more casual and fun approach is called for. It depends on the individual.

As a classically-trained violinist and singer, I’ve had the joy of performing contemporary opera in London and playing Mozart cadenzas with a driving country beat in Atlanta. In my “salad days” I took the opportunity to “tread the boards” as an actress on multiple Bay Area stages including Marin Theatre Company, Pacific Alliance Stage Company, San Francisco Shakespeare Festival, and The Mountain Play among others.

In the live music scene I have had the pleasure of sitting in with many notable and brilliant local bands, once having jammed with Ramblin' Jack Elliot, Peter Rowan and Jerry Harrison and opening for the likes of Kenny Loggins, The Flaming Lips, Grace Potter and Thomas Dolby.

Evan Frank

Evan Frank
Drums

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

My dad and uncle were both musicians so I was exposed to musical instruments at a very early age. My father also handmade congas and dulcimers, so there was always music playing during my childhood; I was 5 years old when I sat behind a drum set for the first time. Since then, I play drums, bass guitar, keyboards, kalimba and many percussion instruments, including marimba, slit drum, congas, and bongos. My strengths are Funk, Rock, Fusion, and creating drum parts from scratch, as I’ve written, performed, and recorded a lot of original music over the years. Although my musical focus over the years has largely been original music, I’ve played in my fair share of cover bands (Van Halen to funk/dance and party music), so I’m well equipped to help students learn to play their favorite songs!

When taking lessons with me students benefit from my real-world drum playing experience. In addition to the usual methods of stick control and other techniques, I teach creativity and personal expression. I appreciate anyone who truly wants to learn and get better and will meet you at whatever level you’re currently playing.

If you asked one of my students what it’s like to take lessons with me you might hear “he’s a fun guy who makes learning drums a blast”. As a teacher, he’s patient, has a good sense of humor, and likes to make things fun. And, he has a lot of "tricks up his sleeve” from all his playing experiences, including trial and error.

I just love teaching. I coach baseball and volunteer at my boys’ school, as well as with their scout pack. Being with my boys has helped me learn how to relate to kids. And, I love teaching adults just as much because any adult taking lessons really wants to learn, and that gives me motivation!

With kids, I like to keep it fun and not boring. Bouncing sticks for 6 months, the way I learned, can discourage most youngsters. My approach is to use phrases and simple counting, letting them explore the drum set. For first time adults, or experienced players, I listen to what they want to learn and focus on their musical goals. I can teach super strict technique or just help them learn a song if that’s their goal.

I teach everything from properly holding sticks, grip, rebound, arm position, posture, and rudiments, to more complex rhythms, fills, dynamics, time signatures (odd and otherwise), styles, creativity and relaxation. I also teach basic reading, using classic texts like Stick Control and Syncopation.

I started learning drums at school in 6th grade. I played in the Stage Band 1st chair drummer, 6th through 8th grade. In my 20’s I took lessons from local teachers in Southern California with my most notable teacher being Dick Gay who went on to play with country artist Clint Black. (I was the only student that took lessons at his home, rather than the music store, because of the potential he saw in me, for which I am forever grateful.) Since then I have studied under several teachers and my current roster of students includes my 9 and 10-year-old sons.

Katie Fritts

Katie Fritts
Bass Clarinet, Clarinet, Flute, French Horn, Piano, Trumpet, Ukulele, Voice

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

“Our daughter, Charlotte, has been studying at The Magic Flute under Katie’s guidance for about a year now and the transformation we’ve seen in her has been remarkable. Charlotte approaches each lesson with genuine enthusiasm, a testament to Katie’s ability to foster both excitement and progress in her students. The nurturing environment at The Magic Flute, combined with Katie’s passionate and encouraging teaching style, has exceeded our expectations. We feel incredibly fortunate to have found such a wonderful music school and teacher for Charlotte, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the experience.” – Joanna

“Katie has now been my daughter's Flute Teacher for the past two years. She is also teaching piano to my younger daughter. All I hear when I walk by their lessons is happiness and joy. I also hear beautiful flute and piano playing. My daughters have developed a love for the flute and piano and Kaitlyn has helped foster that for sure. She is so upbeat and knowledgeable, all at the same time. Extremely patient as well. And really no pressure at all. Katie brings joy into learning." — Allison

Growing up, every musical opportunity that was available to me, I took. I have first-hand knowledge and experience auditioning for, and succeeding in, Santa Rosa’s multiple levels of youth orchestra, county and state honor bands, and various smaller groups. At age 15, I auditioned on trumpet, sent in my original compositions, and I was accepted to Berklee College of Music in Boston (though attending did not become my reality).

I started mentoring younger musicians, as a real job, as a teenager. It is a great privilege to be an influence in a young musician’s education, and it is especially important to teach young people to cherish their music, no matter the instrument or the level of skill. I believe that music is one of the closest things we have to real magic in our lives.

I play multiple instruments but if I had to choose a favorite, it would be piano, because my grandmother taught me to play. Her piano is now mine and I use it in my lessons today. I love teaching beginners through middle school because they get so excited about music! I try to get them to relate their instrument to different musical genres and styles, exploring the places ideal for their instrument and how to find a good expression for songs that do not necessarily seem to fit their instrument.

Before we begin playing, as we get acquainted during our first lesson, my students learn that "sound is everything". The simplest song played in a beautiful rendition is worth more than the most difficult song played with mediocrity. I vary lessons by age level and each students’ goals, always answering theory questions as appropriately as I can (and sometimes in depth depending on the students; there are plenty of 4th graders, and younger, who are capable and willing to understand the formula to a major scale). My approach is to support school music obligations first, then secondly, fulfill the students’ desire to learn how to handle their instrument. I often make custom arrangements of songs…. pop songs, electronic music, movie themes, and video game themes to keep my students engaged and aware of all the possibilities. My students are often the ones, in their music classes, with access to more notes as chromatic exercises are a key part of our studies.

My husband is a San Rafael native, and growing up, he took lessons at The Magic Flute! He also participated in Marin’s Youth Crescendo Orchestra. As a Petaluma native, I am a former Petaluma City Schools District student, with the privilege of having studied music under the extraordinary Mr. Preston Bailey (who earned his teaching credential in the Dixie School District (now known as Miller Creek). We have a son who greatly enjoys playing The Legend of Zelda songs on his Ocarina and a daughter who very much loves her school’s “Play Marimba!” program, in which she participates in various singing opportunities throughout the school year.

Paul Geller

Paul Geller
Guitar, Ukulele

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

“This coming month, my son will have taken lessons with Paul for 11 years and his knowledge of theory, technique and overall musicality on the guitar has been incrementally improving lesson after lesson. What stood out to me was that Paul is an outstanding teacher for kids; his patience and kindness could teach all ages. My son started with Paul, a complete beginner, at 4 years old. Key achievements off the top of my head are probably him opening for the Mountain Play or performing for a jam-packed church during the Folsom Jazz Festival. His improvising, skill and style that got him these incredible performances wouldn’t be possible without Paul’s teaching.” — Bellavy (Noah, 15 years old)

I’ve been playing since I first picked up a guitar in middle school after hearing Van Halen’s full length debut album “Van Halen,” which forever changed the way guitar players, myself included, think about lead and blues rhythm guitar. As a young practicing guitarist, I was heavily influenced by players like Eddie Van Halen and I still work hard, every day, to continue developing my own technique.

I teach all ages and levels, from beginner to advanced. Lessons are taught on acoustic, classical and electric guitars and styles range from rock, blues, metal, pop, R&B, funk, folk, jazz, and classical.

Students like to take guitar lessons from me because I’m not only a guitar teacher, but an actively performing musician, constantly evolving, exploring and learning—styles and techniques, which I pass on. Lessons cover sight reading, rhythm playing, soloing and improvising, chord voicings, scale studies, music theory, modes and music fundamentals. Students get to learn their favorite songs and guitar solos, plus cool slide riffs, alternate tunings, blues licks, finger picking, composing and songwriting.

My approach is not one-size-fits-all, I create a customized lesson plan fit to the individual based on their style, experience, skill level and interests and what they want to accomplish. Not every student learns the same way, or retains information in the same manner; I strive to gain an understanding of each student to develop the best learning approach for them personally. For younger students, I will often use guitar methods by the FJH Music Company, to teach the important fundamentals of music and note reading.

Born and raised in Marin County, I’ve been teaching private music lessons for over 30 years, and have taught group lessons for grades 3-8 in the Ross Valley School District. While studying music in college, I continued taking weekly lessons with some of the top guitar players and teachers in the Bay Area including jazz guitarist Neal Harris and classical guitarist Nick Shyrock. I recently studied guitar with Ted Greene an alumni Los Angeles guitarist and composer Mark Goldenberg (Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raitt, Willie Nelson, Linda Ronstadt, Chicago), and I have composed and produced music for (Autodesk, Fox Sports Network, The North Face, and The City of San Francisco). In addition, I’m a pilot editor for the FJH Music Publishing Company, assisting in reviewing guitar lesson books. I have performed live, and in studio, with Eric Martin (Mr Big), Jimi Fischer (Steve Winwood, Narada Michael Walden ), Jeff Watson (Night Ranger ), Jude Gold (Jefferson Starship), Gigi Gonaway (Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin), Jimmy Sage (Elvis Presley’s Scotty Moore and The Stray Cats’ Lee Rocker ), and SF punk rockers The Nuns.

Jeff Goodlund

Jeff Goodlund
Clarinet, Flute, Saxophone, Piano

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

“Jeff is an amazing music instructor, and our family could not give him a higher recommendation! Over the past six years he has instructed me, a mom of three as I learned saxophone, as well as two sons as they learned clarinet. My kids love him and he has become a life-long friend of our family. A fabulous instructor, and a true renaissance man!” – Diane

“Jeff has been my son’s music teacher for several years. He is an inspirational music teacher, and under his tutelage my son has learned piano, alto and tenor sax, and most recently flute. My son, now a senior in high school, has told us that he intends to continue with Jeff as his music teacher throughout college and beyond.” – Rober

At the encouragement of my father, I began studying clarinet and voice at the age of six and have since studied clarinet with Roy Zajac, Principal Clarinetist of the Santa Rosa Symphony, sax with jazz saxophonist Peter Graves, and piano with Marilyn Thompson from the Trio Navarro. I have been teaching since I was a teenager, and it has always been one of my favorite pursuits!

Through lessons in Classical and Jazz, Clarinet, Saxophone, Flute, and Piano, I work with students on fingering and breathing technique, articulation, tone development, phrasing, interpretation, ear training, and performance techniques. My positive attitude, and years of experience playing, and teaching music, is a benefit to students in their lessons with me. And I, in turn, love seeing their growth and joy in playing as we work together.

If you were to ask my students about lessons with me, they would say that I make learning to play music fun!

I teach ages 10 and up and, having taught music for over 20 years, I’ve learned to treat each student as an individual, planning lessons according to their interests, level and musical goals.

Equipped with a BA Music SSU, MM in Commercial Music from CSULA, I have performed on sax and keyboards with Miles Schon (son of Journey guitarist Neal Schon), as a flutist and singer with the band Quicksilver, and I regularly play clarinet with the Corte Madera Town Band. I also work as a recording studio engineer with Andre Pessis, and as a composer/songwriter for TV and Film.

Willa Grey, Online

Willa Grey
Songwriting, Ukulele

Teaches online only

“Willa is a gem! She has a gentle, encouraging nature. She effortlessly connects with her students, individualizing lessons and fostering learning in a structured, supportive manner. Willa inspired a love for music in our 9 year old that continues to give him joy, confidence and challenge. The convenience of Zoom lessons was great, and we loved the live recitals: an utterly heartwarming experience. We could not have asked for a better music teacher. Thank you, Willa! You make the world a better place.” – Koehlers

“As an adult who only recently picked up the ukulele, I am so impressed with Willa. She is a remarkable educator. While her technical skills and knowledge are outstanding, what really sets her apart is the enthusiasm and positivity that she brings to every minute of every lesson. In addition, Willa is open, curious, and not at all rigid in her approach. This really makes working with her feel more like a partnership than a traditional teacher-student relationship. Willa is such a joy to work with; I always look forward to our next lesson. I feel very, very fortunate to have lucked into finding Willa. And OMG can she sing.” — Dan D

“The day I signed up for lessons with Willa Grey changed my life. My voice was a part of my body I believed was broken, but through lessons with Willa I’ve discovered a way to access my singing voice! I had fully accepted that “I could not sing” as a child. I’ve kept my lips sealed at church, birthday parties, and campfire sing-alongs. Using what Willa has taught me has opened new doors for me. I now feel a part of the group and I’ve let others hear my singing voice. I’ve come so far, and I’m eager to see what I can continue to learn.” — Amelia C

“Thank you for being such a positive influence in Anna Grace’s life. You have such a gift—both with teaching children and with musical creativity.” —Allen and Serena (Anna Grace, 6 years old, piano)

Though I am a classically trained pianist and a singer-songwriter, the ukulele has always held a special place in my heart. I used to own thirteen but have since pared down my collection to three—one which has been to almost as many countries now as I have! I teach online from all over the world, but one of the highlights of getting to work with me is the end-of-semester in-person recitals where you will get to meet your fellow students and perform in a supportive environment full of good vibes!

I am currently teaching voice (specifically for adult beginners, instrumentalists, and songwriters), ukulele, songwriting/composition, and piano. Lessons with me are a light-hearted experience full of laughter and encouragement and collaboration. It's important to me that my students study the music they love and what already inspires them while still being exposed to a wide range of genres and artists to spark their creativity and broaden their artistic horizons. I help them develop good technique and an understanding of how music is structured so they can also write their own music and discover their unique creative process. At the end of the day, I'm here as an artist educator to make all my students' lives deeper, richer, and more joy-filled through their musical journey.

Willa is a Perry & Walters Music Foundation Scholar who graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Music (classical piano). She's been teaching private lessons for 16 years and continues to actively compose, record and perform.

Paul Gruen, Online

Paul Gruen
Guitar, Ukulele, Banjo

Teaches ONLINE ONLY

“I've been studying with Paul for a little over a year now, and it's incredible how much I've been able to improve with his teaching. ...he's boosted me to a point I would not be at were it not for his help. He's helped me with basics like shifting chords and important information like what kinds of scales to use to get better at soloing. I think that one of the things that has helped me the most is his use of songs to help teach specific techniques, as when I was learning Europa by Santana he used it to help strengthen my ability to associate the melody with the chord progressions.” — Alejandro

From early on playing fretted instruments defined me. I was only 11 years old when I performed classical guitar at a celebration honoring Spanish composer Castelnuevo-Tedesco. At age 17, I won first place in advanced bluegrass banjo in the Topanga Banjo and Fiddle Contest. I have created over a hundred ukulele arrangements of all sorts of music. I cannot choose a favorite, as I love the guitar, banjo and ukulele equally and I play each one, almost every day, just for fun!

My students tell me they appreciate my patience, but they also like the fact that I help them with technique, as they are usually worried about developing bad habits. They also like that I help them learn the types of music they want to play—even the specific songs they like—which contributes to their motivation to learn and practice and enjoy the process. I work to get them “off the page” and to learn to play using their ears.

My approach to teaching varies by age level and instrument. I tailor lessons to the individual based on age, musical experience, abilities and interests. In general, I work with beginners to learn chords, with strumming and singing along if they want to. If they do like to sing, I transpose songs into their vocal range for accessibility. We will do scales, arpeggios, strums and fingerpicking, and we will cover basic chord structure. Reading music and/or tablature depends on the student. I try to throw in as much theory as they want. Banjo playing is a bit more standardized in the beginning, tablature-based, which I combine with learning by ear. For all instruments, I provide video and audio of songs for play-along, changing the tempo of the audio to match the student’s ability.

I have been playing guitar, banjo and ukulele for more than 30 years, performing throughout, and teaching for over 15 years. I studied classical guitar with Ronald Purcell, Cal State University Northridge, and jazz guitar with Gerry Mancuso. While at UCLA, I honed my skills playing and performing in various contexts. I performed locally as the lead guitarist with rock icon David Laflamme in the Gypsy Jazz Quartet “Bo Django,” performing at the “Djangofest” in Mill Valley and other venues.

JT John

JT John
Drums

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

As the father of two children, JT has a good understanding of how kids learn and take in information, especially as it relates to learning music and playing an instrument. After having such a wonderful experience playing music with his own children, he’s excited to share his time with other kids who are ready to learn. JT enjoys helping students increase their proficiency and understanding of musical language, which in turn helps them play well and musically connect with others, including being part of a band if that’s what a student aspires to do.

When taking drum lessons with him, his students appreciate his patience and that he makes lessons fun. They learn quickly that he makes it his personal mission to figure out what they’re into and what they want to get out of lessons, rather than forcing them into a preset box. It’s important to teach the basics, but it’s also important to be inspired and if there is something…a technique, a style or a song that sparks a student’s interest, and encourages them, they explore it together.

JT teaches students of all ages and levels, finding something unique and interesting about each. In his approach he reminds his students that everyone has a heartbeat, so we all have rhythm we can look to, and he uses lessons to bring it out through drumming. He enjoys watching a new student when they first realize they are truly playing a beat. With an understanding of the student’s personal goals, whether it’s to learn a specific song or develop their rhythm, JT works out and shares a lesson approach that incorporates basic techniques and fundamentals to help them get there. His philosophy on practice is straightforward… you need to put the time in to get where you want to go. Though it may be painful, hard, or foreign at first, he encourages his students to find a way to relax into it and develop a consistent routine that feels comfortable. Frequent short practice is better than infrequent long practice as consistency and routine creates habit and looseness. So important for drumming!

JT attended Berklee College of Music, where he studied Performance Drum, and is a prolific performer, performing multiple times a week all over Marin County and beyond with many known local bands and players such as Jerry Hannan, Danny Uzilevsky, Shannon Morrison, The Little Gems, The Starling Six, Chris Peck, and many others. He’s a versatile player who can teach rock, blues, country, jazz, and funk. JT taught drums for 6 years, before taking a break and he’s excited to be teaching again with The Magic Flute Music Lessons.

Johnny Johnson

Johnny Johnson
Guitar, Ukulele, Voice, Songwriting

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

I started out playing violin as a child, progressed to piano and then to trumpet, but the sound of the electric guitar in my favorite radio songs always inspired me. I picked up the guitar around age 12 and never got tired of playing, singing, and learning new songs. And I’ve had one in my hands ever since.

Though guitar is my main instrument, I also play ukulele, piano and bass, sing and write songs. If you put an instrument in my hands, I’ll figure out how to make some music with it–and I love doing it. Students who take lessons with me know that about me and know that I like to have fun! I recognize that each student is a unique individual, so I tailor my approach and each lesson to what inspires them. I can adapt songs and lessons to fit different ages, levels, and abilities so students always have a positive sense of achievement.

If you asked my students about me, they’d say I’m positive, patient, caring, supportive and fun.

I teach all ages and mainly serve beginner to intermediate-level students, and we start by learning chords and songs, then as the student becomes more advanced and comfortable, we begin learning solos, improvising cool riffs and licks, finger picking patterns and alternate tunings.

My main goal in teaching is to keep the student engaged and excited about learning, and to instill in them confidence in their abilities.

I have been a long time SF Bay Area Musician and songwriter. I began playing in bands and writing songs at an early age and have performed countless shows throughout my career and recorded albums for both Major and Independent record labels.

Chris Lege

Chris Lege
Trombone, Trumpet, Tuba, Baritone Horn, Euphonium, French Horn, Piano

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

At 9 years old, Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass was Chris’ introduction to the brass section, and he immediately fell in love with the sound, energy and arrangements, starting first with trumpet, before moving on to playing trombone in middle school concert and stage bands. When he was growing up, there were no cell phones or video games, and less focus on sports, so being in a band was a cool way to go. By 16, he was getting paid to play trombone, full-time, with Joy Cayler’s Brass Beat for the Seventies (a non-profit organization dance band that performed 1940’s era big band music from Tommy Dorsey to Glenn Miller). Over a 2-year period he performed with the band more than 80 times before heading off to college.

Chris has been teaching off and on since 1980 and one of the things really loves about it is introducing and connecting future talent with techniques and theory, opening the door to their successful pursuit of music. Working with a professional helps young musicians gain the knowledge and confidence to perform in front of an audience. A fact evident by the high number of Chris’ students who become first chair in their school bands.

Students find Chris’ high level of proficiency and his performance experience exciting and inspirational. They often tell him that their goal is to reach his level of playing, and he is right there with them. He’s their biggest cheerleader when it comes to helping them reach their goal.

Chris teaches all levels and when first meeting with a student, he starts with an assessment, before formulating a music strategy covering all aspects of playing including tone, articulation, ability to read music, and pitch. Pitch, tone, range, and flexibility are the key skills needed to become a solid brass player. After establishing the student’s level and capability, lessons incorporate various music publications that Chris has personally and professionally worked with, and learned from, for many years; tools that assist with skill and tone comprehension level development, with concentration on pitch, range, and flexibility. He strives to instill a sense of competition and achievement in his student’s brass delivery from the inside out, assuring his students get better with every lesson. His top priority is to build performance confidence.

Chris earned a degree in Music Performance and Theory from Metropolitan State University of Denver and has over 45 years stage performance experience across musical styles and genres including salsa, jazz, reggae, big band and more. Most recently he has performed with Bammie-award winning salsa band Avance, Johnny Vegas and the High Rollers, and The Blues Brothers Cover Band. What he adores about performing is making a living doing what he loves and getting to work with the most elite musicians in the Bay Area!

Wendy Loder

Wendy Loder
Violin, Viola, Piano

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

My mom played the violin and when I was 7 years old she brought me a little ¼ size. I remember picking it up and drawing the bow across it and being shocked by the tinny sound, so I picked up HER lovely violin and bowed it with all my might. So much better! I couldn’t wait to get big enough to play that amazing violin, and I am so blessed to still be playing that beautiful instrument. My mother taught me herself for about a year, then took me to study with Charles Meacham, who was then the concertmaster of Marin Symphony. At some point I was able to study flute too, but the violin had captured my heart. When I was a teenager I had the opportunity to study piano with Nancy Loder (who later became my mother-in-law), who introduced me to Classical singing. To my absolute surprise, I had a really high and agile voice, and with my musical background, I quickly learned how to sing. I went on to study Opera, and loved performing and acting, plus experiencing some of the most beautiful music ever written. Nancy also inspired me by her organized and encouraging teaching style, to start teaching myself and I’ve been teaching for over 40 years!

The students I work with learn to play (and sing) with comfortable and efficient posture, technique, and a beautiful sound (to the best of their ability and level). I teach “active listening” and hearing the music in context. Building confidence by preparing each beginning through breathing and awareness of how and when the rhythm of the piece will unfold. I use positive instruction (write “steady” instead of “don’t rush”) to keep it simple and supportive.

If you asked my students about me they would say that I was encouraging, kind, patient, loving, and a good role model. I provide clear explanations and technical expertise, showing how to break down “impossible” goals into manageable bits, adding up to amazing improvements and making the process of learning FUN!

I teach all ages, from 5 years old and up, prioritizing great posture, comfortable set-up/hold of the instrument and functional starting and stopping of the bow from the very first lesson. I use both playing by ear and learning to read music from the very beginning. We play a lot of duets together so students learn instinctively how to make a better sound and tune in. Older students will enjoy learning more technique, but I always respect their learning style and tailor their lessons to be challenging, but not overwhelming. I like to incorporate some music theory for basic understanding of musical components and to help students learn to recognize patterns and common elements that make a good foundation for all music learning.

I graduated cum laude with a Bachelor's degree in Music-Violin performance from Dominican University, following high school at San Domenico, where I was part of the Virtuoso Program. At age 17, I was accepted into the Marin Symphony, performing regularly with them until I joined the San Francisco Opera Chorus as a singer. I have continued performing as both a violinist and opera singer and can be heard playing my violin on film tracks, several radio and TV commercials, and with numerous symphonies and chamber ensembles around the Bay Area. I was honored to receive the “Teacher of the Year” award from Marin Symphony in 2024 and I continue teaching at Brandeis and San Rafael High School. My students have performed with San Francisco Opera, Lamplighters, San Francisco Girls Chorus, San Francisco Boys Chorus, Young Women’s Choral Project, Young People’s Symphony Orchestra, Marin Symphony Youth Orchestra and have been featured as soloists on video game soundtracks!

John Mayer

John Mayer
Trombone, Trumpet, Tuba, Baritone Horn, Euphonium

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

“My son just started trombone lessons with John and it’s been incredible. John has an easy, flexible and relational teaching style, works with how my son learns and adapts lessons so that he feels successful." – Darrah (Casey 11 years old)

Though I teach the full range of brass instruments, trombone is closest to my heart. I first picked up a trombone because it’s what my dad played, and it looked like fun. I later found out that every guy in my family for the last 5 or so generations has played the trombone, it must be in my genes!

Through private lessons over the past 6 years, and in the classroom for 2 years, I’ve taught beginning-to-advanced level students whose ages ranged from 3 years to over 80 years old. What I love about teaching music is the opportunity to inspire musicality and guide my students along their musical journey, helping them grow and achieve their goals. As a player, I understand that to be good at your instrument, you need to put in the work. I'm here to guide students in the right direction as they discover their skills and passion for playing.

If you asked one of my students about me, they’d probably say I was a music nerd, which is a compliment in my book as they probably mean that I give very technical explanations, breaking it down into small steps, so that anyone can comfortably learn to play.

My approach to teaching starts with meeting the student at their current level, then guiding them to where they want to be. I start by having the students play, then we talk about what they want to achieve, what we can do together to get them to the next level, and how to practice. A good private teacher will provide the tools and guidance for self-directed, continual development outside of weekly lessons.

I earned a Bachelor of Music Education, with a concentration in trombone, and a K-12 Music Teaching Credential from Sonoma State University. I teach all brass instruments at a beginning level, and trombone, bass and alto trombone, and euphonium at an advanced level. In addition to teaching, I enjoy performing live music as it lets me be in the moment, with my instrument, doing what I love! During college, I performed with every ensemble I could such as the Sonoma Brass Quintet and with symphonies like the Mill Valley Philharmonic. I currently play with a rock band called Happy Hour, The Generation Gap Big Band, and Salsa Rosa, and I often sub-in at Sacramento State.

Sara Mousanejad

Sara Mousanejad
Piano

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

My first musical experience was with the Dulcimer, a beautiful and unique stringed instrument that can be plucked, strummed or played with a bow, which I played until I had the opportunity to buy a piano. I found the perfect piano teacher for me and the first song she played for me filled my heart with such joy, it was Romeo and Juliet and I still remember the mesmerizing sound of it! I’ve always enjoyed playing music, playing my favorite songs, and I’ve been teaching for over 15 years as a way to share my joy of music and the gift of playing with my students.

Students like studying with me because I’m patient, playful and like to keep lessons fun. We pay attention to fundamentals and play from our technique and music book, but I always leave time to practice the songs students want to learn, such as the pop songs they want to play for their friends.

I teach students of all ages, from 7 years old to 70. Each student is unique, coming into lessons with different goals, interests and playing levels so I like to come up with an individual approach and plan for each. My training in classical and traditional music, including international piano training and certification in the Simply Music method (the breakthrough Australian-developed piano method from Neil Moore, the leader in playing-based music education), ensures that each student I work with will have an exceptional experience. I’m a firm believer in practicing at least 10 minutes everyday and I know we will create a fun and memorable time together.

I have a Bachelor's Degree in economics and Master’s Degree in Interior Architecture Design from the Academy of Art in San Francisco. I attended Music Conservatory and earned a certificate from Simply Music Institute of Learning & Education.

Joe Nemzer

Joe Nemzer
Bass (Electric & Upright)

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

A consummate and versatile player, Joe has been performing all around Marin and the San Francisco Bay area for over 20 years; currently playing jazz twice a month with The Charles Unger Experience at the Sheba Lounge in San Francisco. “It feels good when I know the people like the music we’re playing and appreciate it….it’s an indescribable feeling of satisfaction to share what you’re feeling through the music with an audience.…”

In lessons with Joe, students learn all about music, not just how to play the few songs they like. In addition to showing them how to play their favorite riffs, he expands their musical experience by providing them with the tools to figure out, on their own, how to play anything they hear.

Students learn early on that lessons with Joe are fun because they spend some of the time playing together, with time dedicated to focusing on the particular style the student is interested in, and because he’s able to share a ton of valuable information about music (theory, technique, style, and performance experience).

Joe teaches all ages and levels and thoroughly enjoys working with students who come to lessons with an open mind, eager to learn. He believes that learning about music, theory, melody, harmony, etc. is a crucial part of learning to play any instrument. He’s not the kind of teacher that will just tab out a few riffs and send you on your way. His students learn all about how music works, from the bass perspective. He finds it very rewarding to see his students improve and apply the tools he’s taught them to become better players.

He graduated from Redwood High School where he performed in the Concert & Jazz Bands, then attended Humboldt State University where he performed in the Intermediate Orchestra, Big Band and Jazz combos, before moving on to earn an AA Degree from the Selkirk Contemporary Music & Technology Program in Nelson, B.C., majoring in performance (School Jazz Big Band and Fusion Band).

Ezra Palmer-Persen

Ezra Palmer-Persen
Trombone, Trumpet, Baritone Horn, Euphonium, Tuba

Teaches In-Person at The Magic Flute

“Ezra has been my son's trumpet teacher for the last several years. He started in 4th grade and is now in 10th. Ezra was careful to teach him the correct embouchure, which, as a brass player myself, I knew was important. He can now hit high and low notes with ease because he was taught the correct way. The best thing about Ezra, though, is that he has made trumpet playing FUN and my son enjoys it immensely as a result. He is the 1st chair trumpet at Redwood, and he LOVES playing alone or in a group. I would recommend Ezra in a heartbeat.”—Cheryl (Jacob, 15 years old)

I have been teaching for over 30 years and play several instruments, but ever since I was a little kid I have been captivated by the Trumpet. Why? Because it was, and still is, a socially acceptable way for a 10-year old to make some good noise. I am still fascinated by how much sound you get out of only three valves.

I teach all age levels, kids can start young, they only need to be able to hold their instrument! Students have said that I am one of their more engaging music teachers (even sometimes funny) and I think it’s because I really try to understand and help them overcome their musical challenges which is often simply finding the time and mental space to practice. When learning a wind instrument, it is all about practice--how to practice and what to practice, to achieve the constancy, range and endurance you need to play like a professional.

Through years of teaching I have developed a unique and effective approach that works in person as well as in virtual lessons. I start with an understanding of where the student is emotionally and how much they want to learn at that moment, then I meet them there, so that the most learning can occur. This is especially effective in teaching different age levels as I’m able to adjust to the student. The key is patience and the desire to give every student a chance to learn, correctly, at their own pace.

I have been passionate about brass playing for over 50 years. I have worked with artists such as Barbara McNair, The Whispers, Barbara Lewis and Gladys Knight and the Pips. With a Bachelor of Arts in Music from San Francisco State University and certification as a Claude Gordon Brass Instructor for all the “cupped” brass, I have been teaching continuously since 1988.

Alan Schechner

Alan Schechner
Drums

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

“Alan has single handedly helped me tackle one of the bigger regrets in my life…when I stopped playing the drums early in high school (I’m 54 years old now). Quitting has always nagged at me, but with work, marriage, kids, it was a lower priority. When Covid hit, I found myself at home with the time to try again. I went to The Magic Flute (only place to go in Marin) and got myself an entry-level electronic drum kit. I asked about lessons and they connected me with Alan. That was 2020 and I have been taking weekly lessons with Alan since. Alan has taken me from not being able to connect my right and left hands, to being able to listen to, and play, rock and country songs. He teaches me to play slow to play fast, and play fast to play slow. Every week, Alan meets me where I am mentally, and he is always upbeat, and helps me get into the groove. Some lessons include rudiments, others include lesson fills, or sometimes I just jam out and try a new song, and Alan listens. He always comes back with positive constructive feedback to get me to the next level. Then, when Alan hits the drums himself to demonstrate a couple of things to think about,you’d think you are sitting with John Bonham or Russ Kunkel or Stewart Copeland! When Alan plays you realize you are in the presence of greatness (but he never brags or belittles). His positivity has helped get me to a point that my family considers me a drummer, and my kids are actually impressed – which if you have kids, you know is pretty hard to make happen. The Magic Flute and Alan have made it all happen nice and easy. I have tackled that big regret, and now I can jam with a huge smile on my face. No plans to stop my lessons anytime soon. But that guitar in the corner is calling me too… maybe next month. Anyway, a big thank you to Alan and to The Magic Flute.” —Pat M

“I’ve had the pleasure of studying with Alan for three years, and the experience has been exceptional. From the first meeting to today, Alan has been the most positive and encouraging person/teacher that I have ever met. He has a unique ability to tailor lessons to fit my skill level and musical interests, making each lesson both challenging and enjoyable. I highly recommend Alan to anyone looking to develop their drumming skills and gain a deeper appreciation for music.“ —Dave M

“He is a fantastic teacher and has helped me develop in ways I couldn't imagine. He truly is THE BEST!”— Nicolò, 14 years old

I have been passionate about drumming, and music, my whole life. I started taking private lessons in elementary school and continued through college. Drums are a great form of self-expression both physically and creatively.

My students know I genuinely care about helping them to become the drummer they want to be. I love seeing the happiness on their faces when they can play something that they didn’t think they could.

When it comes to teaching drums, there are basics to be covered that are important to learn and understand, but we also want to have fun, so I like to start by understanding my students' musical goals. Working with someone like me who has played for many years and knows all the tricks is a great way for a student to achieve their goals faster. That said, if a student simply wants to learn to play a specific song, or build a foundation, and not spend time on the basics, we can do that too!

When taking lessons with me, students will learn timing, hand and foot techniques, reading music, dynamics, transcribing, soloing concepts-coordination, chart interpretation, creative development, and more.

For 16 years, I took private lessons with drum-teaching legend Chuck Brown learning technique, reading, soloing, and multiple music styles all of which prepared me for professional work with Eric Martin (vocalist with “Mr. Big”) and numerous band and musical theater, opera and symphony orchestras. I have been teaching private lessons to students of all ages for over 30 years, loving every minute of it!

Jim Talley

Jim Talley
Piano, Organ, Songwriting

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

“My two boys started the piano with Jim when they were both 9 years old. They are now 12 and 15 and they play beautifully. They love it… and are really excited about the music they learn from month to month. Jim's approach is really engaging for young people.. I believe my boys’ piano success is due to how Jim has taught them over the years. —Justin

“Our son started learning piano with Jim as a beginner at age 5, and has continued to study with him for the past five years because he has enjoyed it so much and has remained challenged, but never overwhelmed. Jim is a very patient teacher who teaches with a lot of respect for his students. We also love that he is a performing musician himself and can share this with students. Our son has now been able to translate his piano skills into playing percussion in a youth orchestra, even as he also continues piano.” — Tara, (Gabriel, 10 years old)

“Jim is an awesome teacher! He listens to what his students want to learn, and allows leeway when it comes to expressiveness, such as adding minor ritardandos. He is a very nice, warmhearted person. I have been studying with Jim for 5 years. My skills have grown tremendously, if I do say so myself. It’s been a very fun 5 years.” — Gabriel

My mom got me started with the piano (sort of forced lessons upon me with the hopes of me becoming a classical pianist one day!) a few weeks before my 4th birthday. In high school I started going to rock and jazz concerts and saw how much fun music could be so I decided to attend a college with a great jazz program. I was musically inspired and influenced by jazz greats such as Keith Jarrett, Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, McCoy Tyner, and Bill Evans and rock gods such as the Grateful Dead, Hendrix, Allman Brothers, Dylan, Beatles, Santana, Neville Brothers, Dr.John ....the list goes on and on! I play piano, electric keyboards, melodica and a Hammond organ.

I've been teaching private lessons for over 22 years in Marin and I've had the pleasure of working with well over a hundred students. Oh, I really love teaching! To watch my kids grow with the lessons is so rewarding. I like to do annual student showcases letting the kids (and adults) perform for their families and friends. It’s such a thrill. I've had quite a few students turn pro playing gigs all over the place with some even becoming music teachers themselves.

If you were to ask my students about me, they would say "Wow, he's really into this and is so positive and patient! Plus after we’re up and running, he lets us bring in our own pieces, the music we like and want to learn, which is super fun." Music is a life-long journey and I'm so happy to be able to help my students on their path. As they get older and more experienced I like to branch out from the classical format and help them explore other genres they may become interested in like jazz, show tunes, rock, blues and pop. I've found that once they’re able to play the tunes they like to listen to, their interest level skyrockets!

I have a general program for beginners, kids or adults, but I've learned over the years how to customize the lessons to fit the student once they gain some skills. One size does not fit all. Music is such a joyful, spiritual practice that I vowed, after my traumatic early childhood piano training, to always be super-nice and supportive with my students as I want them to see piano lessons and music as FUN....not like school, which can seem like drudgery to them.

I teach all ages, and have had students from 5 to 89 years old. I like teaching kids a lot but it's also fun to teach older players who already have some experience. I particularly like teaching jazz improv to classical players who have never improvised.

For beginners, I start them out with finger exercises which lead to major and minor scales, also learning how to read music and of course playing little pieces right away to ramp up the fun quotient. I use different books depending on the age and interests of the student (all of which can be purchased at The Magic Flute).

In addition to classical piano lessons I have studied choir and was a tenor singer and choir pianist in Junior High School. Before moving to Marin, I attended Cabrillo College in Aptos where I studied jazz in class as well as in private lessons. I've taken the Monday Night Big Band class at the SF Jazz Center with Adam Theis (Jazz Mafia) and have also taken a lot of singing lessons. This resulted in my becoming the front man and keyboardist for my New Orleans funk band Talley Up! which has performed all over the Bay Area for the last ten years. I have also performed internationally in Amsterdam, Thailand and Costa Rica.

Check out Jim playing his original composition “Good Doctor” dedicated to Dr. John:

And, Tang-a-Lang, both recorded at Hyde Street Studios, San Francisco:

And, Student Jake Lovett just ripping through Chopin's Valse in C# Minor:

Rob Thomure, Offsite

Rob Thomure
Guitar, Ukulele

Teaches ONLY at his home studio in Mill Valley

“For anyone looking for a guitar teacher who can inspire and guide young musicians, Rob is an excellent choice. It's his patience, kindness, and commitment that have truly enabled my kids to explore their musical potential.”—Ximena (Eliz 12 and Sergei 9 years old)

“Rob has helped me make great progress on the guitar. I really appreciate his tailored approach to teaching and his deep knowledge of music. Highly recommended!” —Anand

“We thank Rob from the bottom of our hearts for his patience, coaxing and making guitar seem cool. Arlo even got an opportunity at a music studio this summer, helping younger kids make bands. He is going to live a richer life because he has music in it. Thank you!” —Heather (Arlo, age 13)

“I’m taking guitar lessons after 20 years of self-taught bad habits. Rob finds a way to promote proper technique. Great music teacher.” —Mark

Guitar is truly a portable orchestra, with an endless palette of sonic colors. I’ve been captivated by this instrument for over 40 years, inspired as a child when I heard the famous Romeros Guitar Quintet, not to mention The Beatles and other great music of the day. When I played a Carcassi classical piece before an audience, although I was nervous, I found that I really enjoyed performing and I’ve been composing, recording, performing, and teaching ever since.

I teach beginning-to-advanced guitar and ukulele for kids and adults, acoustic and electric, all styles, bringing a broad background and perspective, and many years’ experiences, to my lessons. My students find me compassionate, encouraging and patient, and good at assessing what they really need from me. I’m able to challenge them so that they are motivated and feel like they’re making progress, but not challenged so much that they get discouraged, which is important in working with young players. They like learning something new and get excited to play new songs. Parents have thanked me for the endless inspiration I share with their children, nurturing their love of music.

When teaching, I like to balance theory and technique by learning the songs students want to play so they get excited. Using a variety of materials, I tailor the lesson plan to the student, so it aligns with their interests and goals, inspiring them to stick with their lessons. With younger students, I emphasize the basics and teach good habits. With older students, who have played previously, I might spend more time undoing bad habits. :-) No matter what age the student is, I love to nurture breakthrough moments and see their joy as they progress to the next level.

I attended the University of Chicago, studied classical guitar with a private teacher and I’m a member of the Classical Guitar Corner Academy. I’ve been playing electric, acoustic, and classical guitar for 40 years; composing music, being a music studio owner and musician, and audio director and sound designer for film, video, and games, including the Rock Band series. Currently, I’m teaching in a music enrichment program at a local K-8 school (Marin Country Day School) and for the last 20 years, I’ve taught private lessons to students of all ages, with my youngest student 5 years old and my oldest 104!

Rachel Unterseher

Rachel Unterseher
Violin, Viola

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

“Good fit for young kids! She starts with the basics to give a good foundation for playing. She understands the attention problems of young children and knows how to work with them. She is also very friendly and honest.” —Michelle

“Rachel, I really enjoy having violin lessons with you, and I think that all my success in orchestra, and not having much trouble understanding violin, has all to do with you! Thank you for being amazing!” —JK, 8th Grade

I fell in love with the sound of the violin as a child. It is the closest instrument to the human voice and it has the magical capacity to communicate feelings and ideas beyond words. One can play any type of music, from anywhere in the world, on the violin. Teaching allows me to share my passion for this beautiful instrument, and help students develop a love for music and accomplish their musical goals. My goal as a teacher is for students to gain the skills to be the musicians they want to be, and to foster the experience through music that everyone is connected and a part of something greater.

Having a diverse background in my musical experiences and education helps me to be flexible in serving students with varied backgrounds and interests. I am able to adapt teaching methods to meet the learning goals and style of the student. Whether one is an auditory, visual or kinesthetic learner, or whether one wants to learn classical, film music, pop, fiddle tunes or the Classical music of India, I am able to help them learn what they want to learn.

I began teaching at age 18 and have taught for over 20 years. I teach all ages and levels beginning as early as age 4. Lessons are geared to create a love of music in the student and are tailored to the student’s interests, age, and level. It is important to me that student’s learn music as a language. I have developed a teaching method based on the experience of studying with many different teachers and studying many different pedagogical approaches. In the beginning Suzuki literature and approaches are used as a foundation as well as the ideas of Paul Rolland and traditional methods of teaching violin and viola where the student learns music theory, how to read music, and develop proper playing position and posture. Games, duets, music activities and recordings are incorporated to keep lessons fun.

I have a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music and Violin Performance with Honors from Mills College, where I studied with violinist David Abel, plus additional undergraduate music education from Cal State Northridge where I studied with violinist Joseph Genualdi who studied with Ivan Galamian concurrently with Itzhak Perlman.

Growing up, I performed in the Nevada State Honor Orchestra and was a member of the Cal State University Northridge Youth Orchestra. I studied violin with Vivian Woolf, a member of the LA Philharmonic. In college I was a member of the Cal State University Northridge Symphony, Chamber, and Opera Orchestras. I also performed with the Arkansas Festival Orchestra and participated in the Idyllwild School of Music and the Arts Festival Orchestras.

My additional training and experience includes the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music String Academy Pedagogy for Violin and Viola Teachers workshop with Mimi Zweig (Director), Brenda Brenner (Co-Director), Rebecca Henry, James Przygocki, and Sherry Sinift; Suzuki teacher training with violinist Kasandra Klassy, who studied directly with Dr. Suzuki in Matsumoto, Japan; and Suzuki pedagogy workshops with Cathryn Lee and James Pecoraro. Additional studies were in Classical Music of India at the Ali Akbar College of Music with Maestro Ali Akbar Khan for 20 years on violin, viola and vocal, and with violinists Sisirkhana Dhar Chaudhuri and SatyaDev Pawar.

Rachel is a regular performer throughout the Bay Area. She has performed as a soloist on violin and viola, in small ensembles and as a part of the Vasundhara Orchestra and the Ali Akbar College of Music Orchestra. She has also performed for radio and television.

Brody Valentino

Brody Valentino
Piano, Guitar, Bass, Ukulele, Voice

Teaches in-person at The Magic Flute

“We love Brody so much! He is a wonderful and patient teacher that explains things in a way that his young students can understand. He really makes it fun to learn. He is consistent and reliable, friendly and kind, and has really made my son feel comfortable and excited about guitar in such a way that he has stuck with it longer than any other activity. He’s become an important mentor to my son and he occupies a special place in our lives. Thank you Brody!” —Lisa (Noah, started when he was 12 years old, ended when he went to college)

"Brody is an excellent music teacher! He really makes learning and playing fun. I was able to play some of my favorite guitar riffs and bass lines in the first few weeks of lessons. He also is very knowledgeable about music culture and this helps students feel connected to rock and roll lineage. If you want to learn keyboard, synths, guitar and bass, music production and songwriting... and have a good time doing it, go see Brody!" —Sean

My passion for music started when I was very young. I was 7 years old when I first picked up the guitar, and though it was the early 2000’s, I was drawn to late 1960’s rock! At that young age I was thoroughly inspired by the greats such as Jimi Hendrix, Deep Purple, and Led Zeppelin. Seven years later, I had the opportunity to work as a volunteer instructor at Fairfax Rocks Music Summer Camp. When camp ended, several of the younger kids continued lessons with me. So, at 14 years old, I was teaching guitar and have been doing so ever since-–and I love it! It wasn’t until I was 19 that I started teaching students older than myself. I love bringing joy and meaning to someone’s life through music.

Students who study with me benefit from my ability to adapt to them, their skill level, and musical goals and interests. Not every student learns the same way so I focus more on playing and doing, learning through hands-on experience.

If you were to ask one of my students about me, they would say I am easy going and make playing music fun!

I teach ages 7 and above, all skill levels. My approach to teaching is to get the student playing as soon as possible. Depending on the instrument, I will teach pieces of songs such as riffs and little melodies, so the student can build strength in their hands as well as develop their internal rhythm. When a student gets to a certain level of their musicality, I encourage them to play their favorite songs as I have found that without a genuine connection to the songs that a student is playing, and practicing, they tend to not progress on their instrument. .

I’m a local guy, having graduated from Archie Williams High School, completed courses with the Stanford Jazz Institute, and I’m currently attending the Berklee School of Music Online Degree Program for Songwriting and Music Production. I am a recording artist and I recorded, mixed and mastered my debut album “Do Ya Feel the Magic?”, which is available on all streaming platforms under the name Brody Valentino.

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