I began teaching at the University level before moving to California where I taught choir and drama in middle school and assisted at the high school. I have directed or performed in numerous Broadway-style musicals and also worked on film crews, as well as singing in concerts and operas. I enjoy teaching voice students of all ages and abilities from the non-singer to the very talented.
I began piano and composition at age six. Each student is unique and I choose the materials specifically. I have created many of the materials I use myself. I teach music theory through composition. I find great joy when able to shine a light on the imagination of a student and help them to express themselves in the language of music. Having studied many styles of piano playing from gospel to jazz I am most familiar with classical piano repertoire. Improvisation is an important part of my own professional performing experience as well as my teaching.
I love to teach the cello! Over the past 20 years, I have learned from my teachers all the ins and outs of playing cello - this includes how to specifically use the arms, fingers, hands, elbows; when to use the different parts of the bow (the lower half, middle and upper half); when to use different bow strokes (using the hand at the frog, the forearm in the middle to upper half); and also things such as relaxing the shoulders, keeping the elbow higher than the wrist in the upper half, angling the bow on the different strings, not leaning too much in the left hand.
I love students, music and teaching. Each lesson is personalized to the needs of each individual student. Ear training, theory, music history and music appreciation is taught in tandem with piano. I am a member of Music Teachers Association of California, on the editorial board of the California Music Teachers' Magazine, and am an adjuditor for the Certificate of Merit program. In addition to teaching, I am also available to evaluate festivals and competitions.
Melinda’s focus in teaching is to bring out the most authentic, passion filled experience for the performer, regardless of age or level of experience. Music is a creative, intrinsically human and fun endeavor.
Melinda is currently the director of the Petaluma Women’s Chorus, past director of numerous choral groups and musical theater and opera productions. She is also a church soloist and keyboardist for several congregations in the area.
I have a broad teaching repertoire and extensive teaching and coaching experience at all levels, both children and adults. I encourage students in the development of a healthy technique and challenge them to their personal best in a creative, respectful, and nurturing environment. Many of my students have become established in successful musical careers, but I am also an enthusiastic supporter of the serious avocational pianist.
Evamarie Raboca Barlaan is a music educator, violin soloist, active orchestral member, and chamber musician. She made her orchestral debut with the El Camino Youth Symphony in Palo Alto, California, performing Edouard Lalos Symphonie Espagnole at the age of 17. Her principal teachers have been Vitaly Leykin and Joan Mulfinger of the Eastman School. She holds a B.M. in Violin Performance from The Boston Conservatory where she studied with Ronan Lefkowitz of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
I am a patient teacher that likes to teach piano/flute student that who actively schedules 30 mins practice time daily into their important school work and other extra-activities outside of school and/or on weekends. Secondly, it is essential for parents' support in their childrens' music learning.
Rachel Xu is an active musician and teacher in the Bay Area. The major roles on her are cellist, teacher, and conductor. She holds a master’s of Music Performance. She won the rating of “Excellent Performer” at the 1st Session in the National Cello Competition (China).
In over 20 years teaching experience, Rachel has taught students from all ages and all levels including college students. She has been a professor of cello since 2000, Judge of Cello of the Music Grading Committee. She is founder of the Star-Success Music School.
Katherine Valdez is a professional musician and educator with a studio in Fremont where she teaches voice, piano and music theory to children and adults.
She is a highly energetic, enthusiastic, and accomplished educator with over 17 years of teaching experience. Possess exceptional aptitude/ability to teach at multi-level musical performance skills. Develop student interest in and appreciation of music through teaching theory, history and practical skills. Work effectively with parents, faculty, and administration to plan and orchestrate school activities and stage performances.