Lesson Policy
Looking to improve your skills? Allegro Music offers beginner, intermediate, and advanced lessons taught by our staff of qualified professionals. Only the best teach at Allegro! Whatever your skill level may be, we’re open to everyone learning here.
All lessons are private, one-on-one, half-hour sessions once a week in our store. We start with children ages 8 and up, or violin/viola/cello lessons at 4 and up. Lessons start at $50 per half-hour and paid one month in advance directly to the teacher. Payment methods include cash, check, and various mobile apps. Scheduling is based on availability, which frequently changes. Check availability by calling us at (510) 793-3500
Our teachers
-

Vinay Nair
Guitar/Ukulele: Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun
-

Jasun Tipton
Guitar: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Sat
-

Josh Kennedy
Guitar: Thurs, Sun
-

Bill Epps
Guitar: Sat
-

Brenden Jimenez
Guitar: Sat, Sun
-

Richard Ford
Bass: Mon
I am a bassist with over two decades of professional experience, performing genres ranging from funk and hip hop to rock, blues, gospel, R&B, and pop. I have played with cover bands, corporate groups, and church ensembles, and have collaborated with local artists who opened for major performers such as Fantasia and Trey Songz. My performance history includes a wide variety of venues, from local lounges to established stages like Yoshi’s.
My musical background includes community college training, online programs, and years of mentorship from top local professionals. These experiences inform both my performance style and my teaching philosophy.
As an instructor, I aim to help students build confidence and master essential fundamentals. Whether working with beginners or intermediate players, I focus on practical skills, rhythm, and real-world techniques that translate directly to the stage.
-

Shelly Crouse-Monarez
Violin/Viola/Cello/Bass: Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun
-

Kathleen Keating
Flute/Trombone/French Horn: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs
-

Missy Gulamhussein
Flute/Piccolo: Thurs
-

Joel Jaffe
Clarinet/Saxophone: Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat
-

Ben Benavides
Saxophone/Flute/Trumpet: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri
-

Andrew Narveson
Trumpet: Fri
-

Gavin Halloran
Saxophone/Clarinet/Flute/Piano: Mon, Tue, Wed
-

Anwar Johnson
Euphonium/Trombone: Sun
-

Alvin Tai
Piano/Guitar: Sat
-

Austin Chow
Piano/Violin: Sat, Sun
-

Yuanyuan Zhang
Piano: Thurs
-

Mike Mandas
Drums: Tue, Wed, Thurs, Fri
-

Brandon Martinez
Drums: Sat
-

Nick Garibay
Drums: Mon, Sun