Thank you for visiting my site! I'm a professional private music instructor with over 25 years of experience. I have a college degree in music, and lots of professional performing experience as well. I am a proud member of the National Association for Music Education.
If you are shopping around, please bookmark this page now -- don't forget to come back!
Your lessons will be fully customized, depending what styles and approaches you're interested in, and on how much experience you have (if any).
A Couple of Testimonials
"...I tried out many piano instructors in my area and was very impressed with the quality of instruction I received from Kent. He is extremely personable and committed to helping others like myself enjoy playing the piano. Once you are one of his students, he will go out of his way to support your learning via phone, email and anything else you may need to help you progress in musical goals..." - Mona R., Irvine
"Kent surprised me with his broad knowledge of music styles, techniques and theory - classical, jazz, blues, boogie - and his playing skills. He's patient, uncritical, and always encouraging and he structures his lesson plans around my musical interests...I like him personally and know I will learn quickly with him..." - Paul D., Costa Mesa
More references and testimonials are available on request.
I believe the following points set me apart from most private teachers in this area:
(1) I teach both traditional (classical) and pop-based music (pop, rock, blues, jazz, etc). Your choice!
(2) Lessons are fully customized, based on your goals. Because of this, I spend significant time between lessons, preparing for each student's next meeting.
(3) I make learning fun.
(4) Teaching is my first passion -- it is not something I just "fell back on" -- which is true with many teachers who are frustrated performers, who don't even like teaching.
(5) I offer flexible scheduling and flexible rates.
(6) I provide support in-between lessons -- if you are stuck, we can hash it out on the phone or email.
(7) I teach several instruments - great for family deals!
(8) I teach from my studio, or in your home - or now, live on-line!
(9) I have 25 years of experience.
Feel free to shop around, and ask questions regarding the points above. But please bookmark this page first, so you can come back. And please write down this number: Kent Smith Music 714.350.9636
Also offering ON LINE lessons About "Chord Piano" One of my offerings is an accelerated course, based on what some people call "chord piano." Chord-style musicianship is the fastest (and most versatile) way to learn popular piano. This approach to music is how the pros do it -- studio musicians, jazz players, blues musicians, pop players, piano bar players... If you want to know more, give me a call!
I also give "traditional" lessons, for those who want to learn classical music.
Should I learn on-line, from DVD's, books, or from a teacher? They're all good! I do recommend studying with a private teacher, at least for a while, no matter what approach you decide to take in your music. A private teacher can answer your questions immediately, correct your mistakes, motivate you, and keep you from forming bad playing habits.
When you call, I will be very happy to answer any questions you may have about rates, policies, styles of music taught, etc.