 | I offer lessons in:- Accordion
- Composition
- Improvisation
- Instrumental Coaching
- Basic Music Theory
- Intermediate Music Theory
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Interested in taking lessons with James?
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James Guzzetta | Offering private lessons in
El Sobrante, California |
Introduction
I am a professional musician who teaches classical accordion, as well as other forms and styles (ethnic, improvisation, etc.). I have studied the instrument since I was 5, later performing in various solo and ensemble situations. Most rewarding to me is eaching the instrument to students who are serious about learning and playing the accordion.
Although I have learned to play almost every instrument, the accordion still impresses me with its versatility, sophistication and expressability, allowing one to explore the world of music and music theory.
Baroque, classical and new music for accordion? Absolutely! And more!
My Teaching Background
I have been teaching the accordion for nearly 40 years at all levels. I have studied the accordion with Donald Balestrieri, a protege of Anthony Galla-Rini. I also have a Master's degree in Music from both San Diego State University and Mills College Center for Contemporary Music, where I studied with Terry Riley and Robert Ashley.
In my teens and early twenties, I participated and won several competitions including the Young Artists award, guest soloing with the San Diego Symphony, and Musical Merit Foundation award. At Mills CCM, I began exploring other possibilities of music (improvisation, raga, new music) and discovered the amazing flexibility and expansibility of the accordion.
I have also lead Octoberfest bands, jazz groups and new music ensembles mostly with the accordion and have begun to now compose new and improvisatory music for the instrument in solo and ensemble formats. My Teaching Philosophy
Each student is unique. They each bring their individual gifts and challenges. What I look for is their dedication and committment to learning. As with any discipline there are effective ways of practicing, learning and performing. I listen to each student's needs and goals, and develop a program that supports the student in learning good habits (practice and performance) that can be applied to any style or form of music. I also find that these habits also support students in becoming the best people they can possibly be. Rates And Availability
I currently teach in my home in El Sobrante. I can also travel to the student's home and charge an additional fee for that service. I currently charge $50/hr for beginners, $60/hr for intermediate and $70/hr for advanced levels. 1/2 hr rates are $30, $35 and $40, respectively. 1 hr lessons are required if travel is involved. Additional travel fees are based on mileage and time of travel. |
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