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