About Sebastian's Orange County Piano Studio
Quality Piano Teaching in Orange County, California
I've repeatedly experienced the redemptive qualities of music in my life. My desire to enable others to music to enrich their lives serves as my guiding motivation for piano instruction. I want to pass on what I've learned from my teachers and through my life - the opportunity to personally embody a deep and meaningful connection with music, through time & practice, evolving into a holistic activity that enhances our lives.
Qualifications, Certifications, & Memberships
I am a Composer & Pianist. I make my living playing in a variety of styles and settings. My experience has given me a unique musical & artistic perspective. My experience teaching piano have gifted me with experience teaching students of all ages & skill levels.
I have a Bachelors in Music Composition from the Curtis Institute of Music & a Masters in Music Composition from the University of Southern California. I taught Theory & Aural Skills as a T.A. at The Thornton School of Music at USC. I am an instructor in the Piano Department Faculty at the Orange County School of the Arts, and hold a Career Technical Education Teaching Credential from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. I am a Composer & Publisher in the American Society of Composers, Authors, & Publishers.
Summary of Teaching Approaches
I emphasize utilizing the movements of the whole body to play piano efficiently. My personal piano technique philosophy prioritizes repeating relaxed techniques slowly to gain proficiency and speed.
I incorporate various techniques & methodologies I've discovered through my private & formal schooling and career, and tailor my teaching method for each student in my studio.
My maturity model, as based off levels of proficiency outlined in grading systems (like the Dreyfus Model of Skill Acquisition), breaks down piano skills into the following broad categories:
- Aural Skills
- Knowledge of the Canon
- Problem Diagnosing & Solving
- Sight Reading
- Understanding & Application of Theory
In lessons, I'll aim to develop and improve all of the areas of my students' piano ability listed above. This will involve in-class exercises, continually learning new repertoire, and slowly gaining a passing familiarity with the basics of music theory leading up to an understanding of harmony & counterpoint when it is appropriate.
Questions? Want to Schedule a Piano Lesson?
Get in touch with me on my Contact page.