About Clarinet Lessons with Jimmée
I am the founder of Bay Area Clarinets, a studio dedicated to focused, individualized clarinet instruction rooted in artistry, discipline, and joy. As a professional clarinetist and bass clarinetist with over 20 years of teaching experience, I am dedicated to helping students grow into confident, expressive, and technically secure musicians.
I graduated with honors in Clarinet Performance from the University of California, Los Angeles, and continue to study with leading orchestral clarinetists as part of my commitment to lifelong artistic growth. As an active professional performer, I bring real-world perspective and high-level training into every lesson.
My goal is simple: to help each student experience both achievement and genuine joy through music — and to leave each lesson feeling capable, focused, and inspired to grow.
My Philosophy
Effective teaching begins with understanding each student as an individual — musically, technically, and personally. Every lesson is thoughtfully structured around a student’s strengths, challenges, and goals. Together, we develop:
- musical expression
- a resonant, characteristic clarinet tone
- strong technique
- thoughtful, consistent practice habits
- confidence in auditions and performances
While I work with students of various ages, my studio is designed especially for motivated middle and high school clarinetists seeking meaningful musical growth. These years are formative, and I value the opportunity to guide students through them — whether preparing for school chair placements, honor bands, youth orchestra auditions, or advanced solo repertoire. Students in my studio have earned placement in regional honor ensembles and the California All-State Music Education Conference, reflecting the focused preparation and disciplined habits we cultivate.
Younger students are supported in building strong foundations from the very beginning, and adult learners are welcomed into a structured and encouraging environment that supports steady, rewarding progress.
My Lessons
Lessons take place in a positive and focused studio atmosphere where expectations are clear, students are appropriately challenged, and growth is both measurable and motivating. I care deeply about helping students not only achieve musically, but also develop confidence, self-discipline, and pride in their work.