Finding the right teacher for yourself or your child can be a difficult task. The teacher and student must be able to work well together and to trust and respect one another. The student must have the desire to learn and the teacher must have experience teaching the fundamentals of reading music, music theory, ear training and performance skills. The teacher should also recognize that every student has a unique personality and the learning process needs to be individually customized to best suit each student.

My personal philosophy is that learning is best accomplished in a supportive, fun and adventurous atmosphere. I not only use piano methods that stimulate creativity, but I have also developed alternative learning tools that are interactive and fun for both children and adult students. My daily practice sessions are always a source of learning new musical elements (even after playing piano for more than 50 years!) so I know first-hand the excitement and joy of learning. My goal with each student is to have her or him experience this same joy and thrill.

My piano teaching experience covers all of the fundamentals discussed above as well as arranging, improvisation and composition. I teach classical, popular, rock, blues and jazz. My performing experience has included live radio, concert venues, clubs, restaurants and private events.

I recommend that you talk to several different teachers before making a choice and schedule an introductory lesson with at least two teachers. I personally offer a free, introductory lesson, however, if a teacher does not offer that option and you feel he/she might be a good fit, I feel it's well worth it to pay for a lesson in order to meet the teacher and learn something of his/her method of teaching. Be sure to let the teacher know that you are talking to other teachers and that you would like a trial lesson.

Learning to Express Yourself

The greatest joy of making music is in expressing yourself in a unique way. Music is a universal language that speaks to all of us and the joy of making music is one of life's greatest gifts. It is a gift not just for a chosen few, but for anyone with the desire and willingness to spend the time to learn the fundamentals. Furthermore, the ability to touch others through the power of music is one of the most subtle and beautiful forms of communication that we have as human beings. Your desire for your child or yourself may be to play professionally, to be able to play for friends and family or simply to play for your own enjoyment. Whatever your goal, it is attainable regardless of your age, past experience or inate ability.

Lessons in My Sunset District Studio or in your home

Lessons are held in my studio conveniently located in the Outer Sunset District in San Francisco or in the comfort of your home. My rates are $40.00 per hour in my studio and $60.00 per hour in your home. I am currently accepting new students of all ages.

Free Introductory Lesson

Call me at 415.819.8522 so that we can discuss your needs and schedule a free, introductory lesson with no obligation.

Solo Piano Demos (MP3s)

Below you will find live, unedited recordings of my piano playing to show you how I express myself with standard arrangements as well as original improvisations and compositions.

  Corcovado
  Triste
  How Insensitive
  Summertime
  This Masquerade
  Fall (original)
  Improvisation #3 (original)


Comments from students and parents

"I highly recommend Duane as a piano teacher! Our daughters really look forward to their lessons every week and we all really enjoy listening to the improvisational section (jam session) of their courses. Duane's gentle, knowing manner is a real treat and perfect with kids who want to learn and advance in music. A great find!"

Lisa G.


"My boys actually fight over the piano since I've signed them up for piano lessons with Duane. He is a great teacher who's encouraging manner and rapport with children inspires learning and a love for music. The kids can't wait for their lessons to come around and run home afterward, excited to practice their new pieces!"

Bernadette D.


"My biggest fear in starting piano lessons was that they would feel mechanical and tedious. Duane's excitement about music comes through in the lessons and it's a joy to spend time learning from him every week. I'm impressed by his ability to talk intelligently both about how music feels and how it's structured mathematically.

"Thanks Duane, I'm really enjoying the lessons!"

Ron C.


"Duane's easy manner and obvious expertise at the piano, make for interesting & entertaining lessons. When I was looking for a piano teacher, my two conditions were that (the teacher) be an excellent improvisational player, and be fun to work with. With Duane, I've found that teacher. Duane's enthusiasm for the piano and teaching, ensures that lessons aren't tedious or dreary, but fun and inspiring."

Mark N.


"Duane is a wonderful person with an adventurous spirit. He's taught me how to play, like playing with colours, experimenting and finding what's beautiful, while keeping correct to the basics of music. I feel he understands his students well and molds his teachings to suit the student. His passion for music has given me much more than I've expected, not only that, he's genuinely a great person to know."

Ayumi M.


Downloads

All major scales
All harmonic minor scales
All melodic minor scales
Blues scales for beginners

Finger exercises for beginning students
I,IV,V,I progressions in three inversions, all major keys
I,IV,V,I progressions in three inversions, all minor keys



* I use these exercises but play them in different keys (with the same fingering as the originals) and in different articulations. I only go up one octave and play them slowly. Below are the first eight Hanon Exercises from Part 1 written out in eighth note patterns and going up and down only an octave.

Modified Hanon Exercises 1 & 2
Modified Hanon Exercises 3 & 4
Modified Hanon Exercises 5 & 6
Modified Hanon Exercises 7 & 8


Anna Magdalena Bach's Notebook


Online Resources

Music Theory.net - great online resource for learning all aspects of music theory
Musiccards.net - another excellent online resource focusing on sight reading and harmony
Good Ear - a great ear training tool

Contact Information

  Duane Frybarger
  415.819.8522
  frybarger@virtualcolony.com