Search
Alan D.'s Photo

College Music Department Chair - AP, College & Jazz Music Theory
Alan D.

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee
Hourly Rate: $60
Contact Alan

About Alan

Bio

I am the Department Chair of the Music Program at Monterey Peninsula College, where I teach all levels of music theory. I hold a doctorate in music from UCLA and a master’s degree in jazz pedagogy from the University of Miami, with dual bachelor’s degrees in music education and performance from the Baldwin-Wallace Conservatory of Music.

I have over 20 years of experience teaching college-level music theory, ear training, and jazz harmony, as well as extensive one-on-one teaching experience...

I am the Department Chair of the Music Program at Monterey Peninsula College, where I teach all levels of music theory. I hold a doctorate in music from UCLA and a master’s degree in jazz pedagogy from the University of Miami, with dual bachelor’s degrees in music education and performance from the Baldwin-Wallace Conservatory of Music.

I have over 20 years of experience teaching college-level music theory, ear training, and jazz harmony, as well as extensive one-on-one teaching experience through private studio instruction. I also spent 10 years as Director of Jazz Studies at a major university and am an active professional saxophonist.

I specialize in AP Music Theory, college music theory, placement exam preparation, and helping musicians connect theory directly to performance. My teaching style emphasizes clear explanations, practical application, and building confidence quickly so students can succeed in their courses and musical goals.

Read more

Education

Baldwin-Wallace Conservatory
Music Education
University of Miami School of Music
Masters
University of California, Los Angeles
PhD
  • Licensed teacher

Policies

Schedule

Alan hasn’t set a schedule.

Approved Subjects

Ear Training

Ear Training

I currently teach ear training at the collegiate level and have over 20 years of experience helping students develop strong aural skills. My instruction covers interval recognition, scale and chord identification, harmonic dictation, melodic dictation, and sight-singing. I work with students ranging from AP Music Theory to collegiate music majors, tailoring lessons to individual learning styles. My approach emphasizes practical strategies that build accuracy, confidence, and long-term musicianship.
General Music

General Music

I am a professional musician and educator with over 20 years of experience teaching general music at the university and college level, including appointments at UCLA, Fresno State, and Monterey Peninsula College. I hold a doctorate in music and have worked with students of all ages and skill levels, from absolute beginners to advanced performers. My teaching style is clear, engaging, and highly practical—I specialize in helping students truly understand music, not just memorize it. Whether you want to strengthen fundamentals like rhythm, melody, and harmony, improve music literacy, prepare for classes or exams, or simply gain confidence and enjoyment in music, I tailor each lesson to your goals and learning style. I’m especially skilled at breaking down complex concepts into simple, intuitive ideas that make learning music feel accessible and rewarding.
Music History

Music History

I am a professional music educator with over 20 years of experience teaching music history at the university and college level, including appointments at UCLA, Fresno State, and Monterey Peninsula College. I hold a doctorate in music and specialize in helping students make sense of historical styles, composers, and works by connecting them to broader cultural, social, and musical ideas. My approach emphasizes understanding over memorization—students learn how to recognize styles, identify key listening features, and confidently discuss music from the Medieval period through the present. Whether you are preparing for exams, completing listening assignments, writing papers, or simply trying to survive a required music history course, I tailor each lesson to your goals and learning style while making the subject engaging and manageable.
Saxophone

Saxophone

I am a professional, internationally performing and recording saxophonist with over 20 years of experience as both a performer and educator. My career includes performances around the world, extensive studio recording, album releases, collaborations with orchestras and professional ensembles, and multiple professional endorsements. I hold a doctorate in music and have served as a screening judge and chair placement adjudicator for college music auditions and All-State ensembles, giving me direct insight into what successful auditions require. Many of my students have earned All-State and honor ensemble placements, as well as strong results in auditions and competitive settings. My teaching emphasizes a beautiful, consistent sound, efficient technique, musical confidence, and clear preparation strategies—lessons are individualized for beginners, advancing students, college majors, and professionals alike.
Music Theory
Alan D.'s Photo

Questions? Contact Alan before you book.

Still have questions?

Contact Alan
Hourly Rate: $60
Contact Alan