Private Lessons & Coaches in Martinez, CA

Derek is an experienced musician and sound designer with many years of music education experience. He holds a Master’s degree in Music and brings a strong academic and practical background to his teaching.

"“I’ve been wanting to continue my learning of ukulele and guitar. Derek is such a knowledgeable and patient teacher. I love how he breaks down the understanding of music theory and composition. I’ve had other guitar teachers that have taught me how to copy music tabs but Derek is really great in explaining the why of music!”

I kicked off my musical journey at 7 with classical piano lessons, later adding classical voice and diving into the guitar world at 14. From classical to rock and blues, I've played in bands, taught guitar, and crafted my compositions. Now, I'm here to share my love for music, having written soundtracks, songs, and jingles. Regularly performing, I'm also passionate about helping others record and produce their music. Let's explore your musical world together!

I've spent my entire life around the piano, playing for big names like Van Morrison and Bonnie Raitt, and even in the early days of "Saturday Night Live." I've also had a hand in writing music for TV shows and directing music for lots of school plays and community theaters. Now, I'm excited to take all that experience and use it to help you learn and grow as my piano student.

I’m a lifelong guitarist who’s learned the economics of the fretboard—how to say more with less. Over decades of performance, arranging, and teaching, I’ve come to see the guitar not as a maze of shapes but as a unified field of melody, harmony, and movement. My lessons are for intermediate players who want to stop memorizing and start understanding: to connect patterns, find melodic pathways, and unlock their own voice.

"Amazing teacher, so kind and patient. I was extremely nervous and he thought me a lot on the first day can’t wait for more lessons. Highly recommend

Raised on the shores of Oahu, Hawaii, my journey began with the rhythm of the waves at the age of 10, sparking a lifelong passion for surfing. Alongside carving waves, I immersed myself in college and high school football, basketball, and track, finding joy in the thrill of competition. As a competitor in the Hawaii Amateur Surfing Association for 5 years, I honed my skills in the ocean's embrace. Complementing my active lifestyle, I prioritize breathwork, stretching, and a healthy diet to nourish both body and soul. Transitioning into coaching, I've shared my love for sports with the next generation through coaching high school and pop warner football, as well as youth basketball. As an Oahu Professional Photographer, I've captured the beauty of surfing, sports, weddings, and family portraits, preserving cherished memories for clients. For the past decade, I've surfed the waves of San Francisco, delighting in small to medium fun perfect waves and discovering local gems based on conditions. Currently, I'm homeschooling my 8-year-old daughter, embracing the opportunity to instill a love for learning and adventure.

"Russ is a great coach!

I am a college student who plays tennis for my college team. With 14 years of playing experience and extensive coaching background, I am dedicated to helping others improve their tennis skills. My passion for the game drives me to provide effective and insightful coaching to players of all levels.

"Justin is the best tennis coach I have ever taken lessons from!

I'm passionate about sharing my love of tennis with players of all levels. As an experienced player with 12 years of coaching experience, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a dedication to helping you achieve your goals on the court. Let's unlock your potential together!

"I had my first tennis lesson with Tarun. He is very passionate about coaching. I learned a lot in the first lesson. He communicated clearly and helped me picking up tennis gears. I had great experience with Tarun. Highly recommended!!

Mahdi Hentati, an esteemed tennis coach originating from Sfax, Tunisia, is a distinguished graduate with a degree in Physical Education, specializing in Tennis from L’Institut Supérieur du Sport et de l’Education Physique de Sfax. Commencing his tennis journey at the age of 8, Mahdi has earned national recognition through his dedicated participation in competitive tennis. His coaching ethos revolves around a personalized approach, acknowledging individual paces and motivations, thereby creating an environment where players can comfortably and effectively realize their maximum potential. Beyond the physical dimensions of the sport, Mahdi perceives sports as a conduit to a healthier lifestyle, imparting crucial lessons in self-discipline and empowerment. Throughout his illustrious career, Mahdi’s unwavering commitment to coaching is fueled by a genuine passion for pedagogy and the immense satisfaction derived from assisting diverse individuals in achieving their athletic and personal aspirations. His coaching philosophy transcends conventional boundaries, embodying a holistic approach that extends far beyond the confines of the tennis court. Mahdi Hentati stands as a testament to the transformative impact of sports in shaping the lives of those he guides.

"Alex who Mahdi connected me with was fantastic. I have been playing. Tennis 3-4 times a week for 40 years and am a competitive 4.5 Usta player and Alex was still able to give me tons of actionable advice that will make me a better player. Super happy with the lesson.

Motivational and enthusiastic tennis coach with 7 plus years part-time and independent instruction with college Team Tennis for Grossmont College San Diego. Experienced in coaching players of various ages and skill levels, from beginners to competitive youth and adult athletes. Committed to improving mechanics, strategy, conditioning, mental toughness for competition or leisure play. I can turn a beginner into a Competitive Winning ACE that doesn’t take years and years of CraZy Lessons Really!

"Cedric is truly a great teacher. He’s patient, knowledgeable, and knows how to explain techniques in a way that’s easy to understand and apply on the court. The lesson is well-structured, encouraging, and fun. Highly recommended!