Private Lessons & Coaches in Novato, CA

I started played a little over seven years ago. I’ve toured professionally for around two year, through all the Hawaiian islands, Cali and Washington. I find nothing more exciting than music, and in truth, getting good at it is a lot easier than some make it out to be. If I could provide newcomers, or any level to some of the things I wish I would’ve know when I first started, I strongly believe it will help them to achieve whatever it is they want out of music.

"I think he is really good at music. He is so good at teaching me lessons. And I think that he should give me more lessons. And you should buy his lessons cause they are really good.

Hey my name's Derek Schmidt and I'm a musician, sound designer, and music educator living in SF. I have a Masters in Music Composition and decades of performing experience.I've played piano for over three decades, for performance, production, and composition. I come at piano from an composer/songwriter perspective, so I can ground the lessons in music theory to help it all make sense, no matter what instrument you decide to play. I best teach beginning and intermediate students who want to explore different musical styles.

"“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!” – T.

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

Ranked # 4 in the Russia in age 16. Won Junior National Doubles Championship title, with my partner Max Mirnyi. Played ITF tournaments throughout Europe. Growing up had chance to learn from elite world class coaches Sergei Likhachev, Alexander Zverev Sr. ( Sasha’s father) College: Had a full scholarship at Western Kentucky University, Division 1. Played #1 position singles and doubles. Awarded All-Conference Player of the year, Sun Belt Conference. Transferred to BYU- Hawaii, Division II.  I led the team to win the NCAA-II championship title. First time in school history BYU-Hawaii became #1 in the country. Trained and helped/hitting partner of Marat Safin and Anna Kournikova. Worked with Lulu Sun, helped her with strategic training and skills. WTA career high, 39 in the world.

"Training structure was really good, helped me to get into varsity team.

Former All-city athlete in AAA and WCAL, currently a personal trainer with focus on youth athletes and adults. Two years interning as an assistant coach for high school varsity football. Experience working with kids and Teens and overall great knowledge and communication skills. In 4-6 parents can expect there players to be faster, quicker and have more football knowledge than then players there age.

"Akheem Lewis is a former collegiate athlete(baseball) that i helped improve his speed and agility!

Russ is an experienced coach with over 25 years of leading athletes at the high school and youth levels. As a player, he spent two years competing in college after three standout years on his high school varsity team, where he helped capture a state championship and two league titles. His coaching career includes 25 years of high school varsity and JV football, as well as five years in Pop Warner. Currently, Russ brings his leadership and passion for the game to coaching high school boys flag football, where he continues to mentor and inspire student-athletes.

I bring 24th season of football coaching experience across four different high schools at the freshman, JV and varsity level, along with two season of pop warner football. Throughout my coaching career, I've served in many roles, including head coach, assistant coach, offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator, special team coach and strength & conditioning coordinator. I also bring the perspective of a former player with 9 seasons of contact football playing experience.

Hola! I have an extensive experience tutoring and teaching Spanish of different ages and proficiency levels. I have 2+ years of experience teaching at high school level, and also have prior experience providing one-on-one Spanish instructor. I make the language learning process engaging by emphasizing speaking practice, conversation, and pronunciation. Also, I adapt my teaching approach to meet each student's individual needs, incorporating grammar, reading, and writing as needed.

¡Hola! My name is Jharledis, and I am a passionate Spanish teacher with experience working with young children in educational settings. I specialize in creating fun, engaging, and interactive lessons that help children develop confidence and enthusiasm for learning Spanish.

With over two decades immersed in the gridiron, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a genuine passion for developing players. My coaching philosophy centers on fundamentals, strategic thinking, and fostering a love for the game. Let's elevate your game to the next level!

"Helped me develop a lot. Wouldn’t be the type of player I am without him.