All my students learn to read music. Guitar and piano students have different needs, however. With guitar lessons, I emphasize singing and accompanying chordal technique, as well as note-reading. If the student is interested, I teach them Classical style, which requires a lot more work and dedication. Usually, they prefer to stick with acoustic guitar style.
My piano students learn to read notes and play all styles of music – Classical, pop, etc. I had a private piano studio in my home for over 20 years with 35 students. My students gave twice-yearly recitals at the local concert hall. At that time I was a member of MTAC and MTNA. Two of my former students went on to have a career in music.
I gave up my private studio to focus on performing. I perform over 100 concerts and events each year in Northern California on piano, harp, and flute. You can hear me on my websites and on YouTube. Tomorrow I will be playing at Grace Cathedral in SF. On Sunday I will be playing at the SF Hilton Hotel. I am also the church pianist at St Andrew’s in Pacifica.
I am a highly-trained Classical pianist and have soloed with orchestras and play in many ensemble groups. I have also played in rock bands and accompany many singers of all types. I play piano, harp, flute, guitar (acoustic & Classical), Irish flute, tin whistle, bodhran, and violin. I speak fluent French & Russian.
Jeremy Pridgeon
eremy first took piano lessons as a child, but switched to guitar as a teenager. He began studying music theory in high school, later continuing at Indiana University, where he studied classical guitar, jazz improvisation, music theory, and performed in many bands and vocal groups. He completed his studies at Sonoma State University with a BA in music in 2007, and began his teaching career at the Santa Rosa Conservatory of Music. He continues to teach guitar and piano in various studios in San Francisco and on the peninsula as well as via Zoom for the Upthegrove Music School all across the Country ! His focus is on teaching the fundamentals of musicianship, including reading, rhythm, theory, and building repertoire, while trying to customize the lessons to the individual students’ needs and goals.
Teacher Mike Teaches Guitar, Piano, Drums, and Vocals In the Most Modern Studio Setting
Take a look at Teacher Mike at Upthegrove Music School!
Mike has been with the music school for a few years, and students think he is brilliant. If you or someone you know wants to learn an instrument in the San Mateo area - send us a note - Teacher Mike has a few places left in his timetable, and you will be amazed at how well you are playing in such a short amount of time!
"Mike - You're the best! See you next Monday at 1PM." - Wanda
"Thank you for your email. Your comments mean a lot to Lukas and me. I am happy that he not only found his love in music, but also a teacher who is a mentor for him musically and personally. I also feel that Lukas is somewhat relieved that he found other folks who take music as serious as he does. After hearing all the wonderful remarks from my parents and husband, I can't wait for the next rehearsal to come. By the way, my parents were impressed that their Christmas present sounds so good and is put to use. ;-)"
"Mike, Thank you so much once more for all the effort you put into our student band. It was a lot of fun, you worked wonders with that rag tag group of rug rats and I will miss you. I really appreciated your partnership and friendship."
Our Bands
We Are Over the Moon To Be the Last Band On At the Festival!
Come and see the band play and if you can't make it send us good vibes to be there in spirit. The band is reaching new cool highs! Some members of the band are teachers at the Upthegrove School of Music. We want you to be a part of the excitement!
Lynda Upthegrove
Lynda Upthegrove's solo album that she wrote, recorded and produced herself, along with playing most of the instruments.