Guitar, bass, drums, keys, voice, and more. From UC Berkeley students to music-curious adults, all levels, all ages. Music education rooted in soul, funk, and real groove.
First lesson free · instruments at the studio · no commitment
Berkeley is a town of musicians, artists, and students. Whether you're at Cal, working in tech, or just finally ready to learn an instrument, music is the connective tissue. Simon is a working musician and producer who studied and performed in the Oakland funk and soul tradition. Lessons here are hands-on, taste-focused, and built on fundamentals that stick.
You'll learn the way music is actually played on records and in working bands: with intention, pocket, and soul. Whether you want to jam with friends, join the ensemble, or just sound like what you hear in your head, this is the place.
Yes. Guitar, bass, drums, keys, voice, and violin. All in-person at the studio in Berkeley. Each student gets a customized approach based on their goals, whether they're starting cold or building on prior experience.
The studio is located in the East Bay, minutes from UC Berkeley and easy street parking. Your first trial lesson is on us. Come in, meet Simon, and figure out what you want to learn.
Yes. The Groove Ensemble is a collaborative band program for intermediate to advanced students. Berkeley students join and perform with other talented players. Private lessons are one-on-one, but ensemble is a great next step.
Everyone is. Whether you have zero experience or ten years of playing, lessons start where you are. Many Berkeley students are professionals, hobbyists, students at Cal, or parents picking up an instrument for the first time. A free trial lesson will show you what the work looks like.
Book a 30-minute trial. No commitment. We'll figure out what you want to learn and build a plan from there.
Or email simonoto@gmail.com, reply within 24 hours.