We'll be there learning as long as you keep teaching!

02/12/2008 Posted by L.Shafer "You have no idea of the appreciation my husband and I have that you exist in our son's life! If you can picture him practicing hours a day at age 9 and learning how to play Led Zeppelin, surpassing all of his fellow students, playing in a band at morning assemblys and then moving to a new town where no one plays and almost giving guitar up with all of that talent going to waste, maybe you can imagine how happy we are to have found you! We don't care that we drive a total of 3 hours a week to get to you either! You are very reasonably priced for what you offer. Someday, when you are a parent you will know the difference between ordinary teachers and great ones who inspire and truly care...you fall into the later category and we'll be there learning as long as you keep teaching." -L.S.

Stellar Performer and Teacher!

05/18/2007 Posted by pmacott I've seen Yascha perform and wondered if he would be as enthusiastic and engaging as an instructor. He had been highly recommended -- and rightly so! My son, already something of a musician, has improved and flourished under Yascha's careful and thorough teaching. As my son nears the end of high school and is looking toward keeping music in his life in college and beyond, Yascha is and will continue to be an important and valuable mentor. Insightful and with the student's individual needs and desires first and foremost, Yascha allows students to learn the ins and outs of playing music through pieces that the student selects, or helps select. So, rather than suffering through a prescribed set of lessons and music recital-type pieces, students are allowed to discover the joys of playing music based on the music they personally enjoy. This keeps them interested and motivated. Yascha encourages his students to take on new challenges and skills, but never setting the goal so high at any one point as to overwhelm them, giving them the ability to succeed and improve. I attended a recital he held for his students. I was so impressed by the range in ages and abilities and musical interests of his students. Yascha related well to all of them, treating them equally with genuine pride in their accomplishments. That was very telling as to his quality and capability to teach a wide range of students. I can't recommend him highly enough -- he's the best! Pros: see the above Cons: none at all

Doesn't get better than this.

06/03/2007 Posted by thesweetestthing I'd never played the drums when I came to Yascha for lessons. It's been a year and a half now, and after having not had a music lesson in years, I'm not only still playing and loving every minute but I'm taking two lessons a week now with two different instruments because I can't seem to get enough. I've gotten much more than I asked for here, I've grown tremendously both as a musician and a person. I've gained confidence in myself and the courage to indulge my musical sense of adventure. It's really nice to set goals and be able to achieve them and Yascha will help you do that patiently and as a friend. Perhaps most importantly, Starfish Studios presents a safe, comfortable atmosphere where you can mess up, fix your mistakes and come out sounding awesome. You won't find better lessons even for twice the price.

Wonderful experience!

07/30/2007 Posted by troykindy I have never played the guitar or taken a guitar lesson prior to going to Starfish Studios, and I really didn't know what to expect. I was terribly nervous and feeling a little silly starting an instrument at my age ...I mean, aren't you supposed to begin music lesson at the age of 4 or something? However, from my very first lesson on, Yascha, my teacher at Starfish Studios, has been friendly, warm, encouraging, and so very patient. His instruction has been wonderful too. I can hardly believe that I am only into the second month of lessons so far, and I'm already making sounds with my guitar that very closly resemble actual songs! My goal from the beginning was simply to make some kind of music, any kind of music, and after such a short time, I have nearly achieved my very modest goal. Since, however, the experience has been so positive, I plan to continue music lessons with Yascha. I have never written a review on line of a company before, but I did this because I hope this review of Starfish Studios (and Yascha) helps someone else who might be feeling nervous about starting music lessons feel a little less so in taking music lessons at Starfish Studios. Pros: talented, warm, encouraging, and oh so patient!

Great place to rock out!

07/29/2007 Posted by casey14 When I decided to take guitar lessons, I started to look for someone who could be flexible with my schedule and who would teach me to play music that I was interested in. Starfish Studios has exceded my expectations. Yascha encourages me to bring in CDs so I can learn to play music that I like and is really good at tailoring your lessons to your abilities and interests. I have taken lessons in the past and quit because it felt more like a chore than a hobby. Now I actually look forward to practicing and finding new material to play. The lessons are relaxed, casual, and fun. The price is reasonable and the location is great.

Highly recommended for a solid music education

08/21/2007 Posted by kidsonic After working with Yascha extensively in the past, I can say that he is not only a great instrumentalist, but a talented musician. In his studio work and teaching, he is professional, encouraging, and a pleasure to work with. Since watching the latest concert of all his students performing, it's clear that he can cater to almost any age and skill level. Also, depending on the student, i know he will give lessons multiple times a week if they advance quickly. So, if you want to learn an instrument only.... or if you want theory too, or classical, or emo shoegazing rock, I would highly recommend Starfish Studios. Taking lessons from someone who is a performing musician, has a formal music education and years of teaching experience is the way to go. Pros: secure parking, Stellar performer and teacher!

Great Workshop!

Hello, Yascha -- just wanted to say thanks for putting together this weekly jazz workshop. We are learning SO much and I am enjoying myself tremendously. I think I've learned more in the last 2 months than what I was struggling with in the past 2 years. Looking forward to expanding our repertoire of songs and playing some gigs! I feel more enthusiastic about music than I ever have before. Thanks for all your patience in working with us. -K.B.