Downtown Encinitas
Piano, Voice & Songwriting Lessons
Study with a working performer in a beautiful private studio, two blocks from Highway 101. All ages, all levels, one student at a time.
Book a First Lesson
Downtown Encinitas
Study with a working performer in a beautiful private studio, two blocks from Highway 101. All ages, all levels, one student at a time.
Book a First Lesson
Lessons taught by someone who plays for a living
Most weeks you'll find me on stage three or four nights, then in the studio teaching the rest. If you've spent an evening at Cicciotti's in Cardiff, chances are you've already heard me play. That matters, because students here don't just learn technique. They learn what music is actually for.
I've performed from Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center to the high-end rooms close to home, including the Fairmont Grand Del Mar and The Bridges. Lessons draw on all of it: real fundamentals, the music you actually want to play, and the habits that make it stick for life.
I also coach the part most lessons skip: how to carry yourself as a professional, confident musician in any setting, from an audition to a room full of strangers. Parents are always welcome in the studio, because progress here is something you'll hear, not take on faith.
Private one-on-one instruction, tailored to each student
A solid classical foundation for beginners through about the first five years of method, and then the part most lessons skip: playing by ear, chords, and improvisation taken all the way to an advanced level. If your goal is to sit down at any piano and just play, this is where we live.
From first steps through advanced classical technique, plus audition preparation for students going out for roles, programs, and competitions. Healthy breath and tone first, then the style and the nerve to deliver when it counts. Great with friends, too (see group rates below).
For students with something to say. We shape melody, harmony, lyrics, and song form, then record your songs right here in the studio, so you walk away with finished tracks you actually made, not just notes on a page.
The skill no method book teaches: how to be a professional, confident musician in any setting. Stage presence, reading a room, handling nerves, and carrying yourself like a pro, whether it's an audition, a recital, or a packed party.
A dedicated space for music, in the heart of downtown Encinitas
Downtown Encinitas, CA 92024
It's a real musician's room: a baby grand, great light, and no distractions. Two blocks off Coast Highway 101 and easy to reach from Cardiff, Leucadia, Carlsbad, and Rancho Santa Fe, with parking nearby.
Parents are always welcome. Stay and listen, or unwind on the studio's private balcony with a coffee while your student plays. It's a beautiful spot to spend the half hour.
Open in Google MapsSimple, transparent, month to month
The right start for younger beginners. Focused, encouraging, never overwhelming.
The sweet spot for most students, with room for technique, repertoire, and play.
For serious students, adults, and all songwriting & artist-development work.
First lesson is $25. Come meet the studio, set some goals, and make music. It's credited toward your first month if you continue. Lessons are weekly and billed monthly, and with 24 hours' notice any lesson can be rescheduled at no charge.
Want to sing with friends? Bring up to five and learn together in one 60-minute session. Same studio, same coaching, a lot of fun, and easier on everyone's budget.
The honest answers
Most children are ready for piano around age six, and for voice a little later, though readiness matters more than age. The $25 first lesson is the easiest way to find out. If it's too early, I'll tell you honestly and point you to good ways to get ready in the meantime.
Always. The studio is comfortable for a parent to stay and listen, and younger students often do better knowing you're there. Plenty of parents also use the half hour for a coffee on Highway 101. Both are welcome.
Short and daily beats long and rare. For beginners, 15 focused minutes a day is plenty, and I set up exactly what to practice each week so there's never any guessing at home.
A full-size keyboard with weighted keys is enough to start, so there's no need to buy an acoustic piano on day one. I'm happy to recommend specific models at any budget before you buy anything.
That's the best part of studying with a working performer. When a student is ready, we find the right moment. Studio showcases and performance opportunities come with the territory here.
Absolutely: returning players, total beginners, singers, and songwriters. Some of the most rewarding lessons in the studio are with adults finally making time for music.
Yes, and it's a blast. Group singing lessons take up to five friends in one session, so you learn together, harmonize, and split the cost. It's a great fit for friends, siblings, or anyone who'd rather not start alone.
Tell me a little about the student and I'll respond personally within 24 hours
Thanks for reaching out. I read every inquiry personally and will reply within 24 hours.