Get Good Fast with Private Music Lessons!
Our instructors are highly trained professionals with knowledge of note reading, music theory, ear training and a multitude of musical styles from jazz to classical to heavy metal.
Lessons are held in a one-on-one setting in our in house teaching rooms. Most lessons meet once weekly for 30 minutes. Private lessons offer a level of individual attention that, along with the student’s regular practice, leads to fast improvement. Here at San Diego County Music Exchange, all of our passionate teachers are excited about sharing their experience in music and the arts.
Teachers
Rob Szajkowski - Guitar
Rob graduated from SDSU with a master’s degree in classical guitar and has studied with members of the the legendary “Los Romeros” Quartet. Although he was formally trained in classical guitar, Rob grew up playing rock and blues and has studied jazz with local virtuosos Carol Kaye and Bob Boss.
For guitar lessons in rock, jazz, blues, classical and more contact Rob at 760-815-6131 or send email to: rob@balancedigital.com. You can also visit Rob’s website by clicking here. Lessons are held once weekly for 30 minutes or one hour and cost $30 per 1/2 hour. The student should expect to practice at home 30-60 minutes daily (as a minimum) to show progress.
Alice Gallagher - Clarinet
Ms. Gallagher made her solo debut with the Boston Pops Orchestra at the age of eighteen, as the winner of the 1998 Boston Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition. She graduated from The Juilliard School in 2004. While at Juilliard, Ms. Gallagher played in the Juilliard Symphony, Orchestra, Opera Orchestra, and Composer Workshops. She also gave numerous chamber music performances, including in Juilliard's "Wednesdays at One" chamber music series. She was a fellow of Juilliard's Educational Outreach, and gave group lessons to fifth graders at Public School 166 in New York City. Ms. Gallagher was a graduate student from 2004-2005 at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where she was elected Associate Lecturer in Clarinet Performance. Currently, Alice Gallagher is active as a teacher in her local community, giving weekly clarinet coaching at San Clemente, Dana Hills and Vista High Schools, as well as at La Paz Middle School (Mission Viejo). .
Nathan Mills - Trumpet, Brass
Nathan is a local professional player, who brings his 30+ years of performing experience into his approach to teaching. A product of the vibrant North County music education scene in the 1970’s, he went on to tour the US as lead trumpet for the U.S. Marine Corps band based in New Orleans. After his tour of duty, Nathan continued his “in the trenches” education in New Orleans and New York, before returning to California. He has also continued his education through conversations with virtuoso players such as Don Ellis, Freddie Hubbard, Mike Vax and Arturo Sandoval. Also an accomplished writer and arranger, Nathan’s music has been heard on television and radio, and his skills have been used in many local recording projects. His teaching approach combines the discipline of classical material with his experiences in popular styles, and his love of Jazz and improvised music. Nathan has always been interested in the mechanics of brass playing. His vast knowledge of instruments and mouthpieces of all the various manufacturers allow him to recommend the equipment that best suits the developing player.
Rafael Perez - Saxophone
Rafe Perez is a well known local sax player who recently toured Italy with a jazz big band. For saxophone lessons contact Rafa at 760-583-4160 or by emailing rafafiveo@yahoo.com
Sheila Ryker - Piano
Teacher bio coming soon! Please call the store for information on these lessons 760-630-7451.
Vern Ryker - Trombone, Brass, Piano, Flute
Teacher bio coming soon! Please call the store for information on these lessons 760-630-7451.
Himiko Naka - Flute
Teacher bio coming soon! Please call the store for information on these lessons 760-630-7451.