"Hi, I'm Michael!

I began my music studies in the 2nd grade, learning violin, and then with a great many teachers since then in guitar and bass. Some of the teachers I've studied with as an adult include Pete Foxx (Los Angeles, CA), Bob Fazio (Redondo Beach, CA), and currently Chris Cordova (Albuquerque, NM). I have continued to expand my skills over the years in every genre of music I possibly can from Jazz, R&B, Rock, Classical and Latin styles.

For the last 15 years I have also played bass professionally in live and studio settings, in both original and cover acts. And I've also began tutoring for the last 3 years.

I like to start with simple exercises that build an awareness of the 12 semitones (or notes) in an octave, and how one uses the intervals between these notes to create feeling.

These exercises are designed to not only create an understanding of music theory, but also to get students thinking in a creative way that lends itself to composition and improv.

As far as sight-reading music notation, I teach this on a student to student basis depending on what your long term and immediate goals are. For example, if your goal is to play Classical music in an orchestra, or most styles of Jazz music I would absolutely include that in the program. However if your goal is to get gigs in a Funk or Rock band ASAP, then it might be something to wait on in order to maximize your current goal.

I create a custom program for each student that will allow them to reach whatever goals of music knowledge and skill desired. Weather it's to play in front of others or to enjoy by oneself, it doesn't matter. Music is about enjoyment!

Let me know if any questions, and best of luck on your music quest!

-Michael" less...