Classical/jazz pianist

Rufus B.

I'm a "serious" ;) classical pianist myself but I look forward to teaching a wide range of students. Whether you or your youngster just want some guidance while plunking around at the keys or are aspiring to be the next Martha Argerich, I would love to work with you! I love all sorts of music outside of classical too and would happily explore a students' musical interests.

As a teacher I've taught private piano lessons in varying styles and private cello lessons for the past two years. I've also worked at a music academy where I ran a summer camp for kids. There, I taught private and group piano, ukulele, and band class.

I've now been studying piano for over 16 years and recently graduated from USC with a Classical Piano Performance Major and Jazz Studies Minor. Throughout Middle and High School I participated in many piano competitions, and placed first in competitions such as the LA Young Musicians International Competition, the statewide California Association of Professional Music Teachers Honors Competition, and the Glendale Piano competition. I've also soloed with orchestras on numerous occasions. I've played with groups such as the Pasadena Community Orchestra, Palisades Symphony, Antelope Valley Symphony Orchestra, and the Student Symphony Orchestra of USC. At school I also have been playing and performing with jazz combos for the past year and a half.

I'm also a cellist. I've been playing in chamber groups for many years and played in the SAMOHI symphony for all four years of high school. Collaborating with others has been one of the most enjoyable aspects of my musical experience.

My teaching experience, many hours of practice, experience performing, and experience collaborating with others make me qualified to teach. My interest in music theory and composition a variety of genres of music (jazz, rock, funk) make me a well-rounded musician and teacher who is willing to explore the interests of the student.