Gordon Lazarus

Lessons Offered

Where are Lessons Offered

About Me

I began studying music in middle school, when my parents urged me to try "anything but violin." So I took up oboe and piano, attended CSUN and USC on scholarship, finally earning a Doctorate in music performance 1985. As a member of Cal Phil and other orchestras, local 47, and on faculty at AVC--all for many years--I have had rich and varied musical experiences, as well as a lot of fun! But what you really need to know is what I can do for you as a teacher. My students are happy and successful, each growing at his or her own optimum pace. For more bio info, please visit my own website at (contact me).

My Musical Education Background

Doctor of Musical Arts, USC, 1985 ("Go Trojans!").
Master of Arts in Music, CSUN, 1980("Yay Northridge?"). Bachelor of Music, CSUN, 1978, with many honors: Magna Cum Laude, Pi Cappa Lamda, Dean's List every semester, music achievement award, concerto competition. Calif. Teaching Cred., MS with specialty in music, Chapman Univ. Many years of "experience is the best teacher" in music as a performing musician, classroom and private teacher--one who believes in learning throughout life. Teaching is like practicing: the more you do, the better you get at it.

Genres and Subjects Taught

No two students are the same. I tailor lessons to YOU, based on age, temperament, etc. Most people do best with 45-minute lessons. 30 minutes is too short; 60 may be too long for many. I much prefer technique learned through great music (Bach, Mozart, Lennon, etc.) rather than exercises by Hannon & other "pedagogues." Too much great music awaits to spend time on any one piece you don't like. Learning should be fun and rewarding, and matched to your own unique hands, learning styles, and aesthetic. With the right approach, you'll enjoy practicing and feel good about your progress! That's what teaching piano or any musical instrument is all about.

Lesson Rates

I teach at home, OR travel to yours, so fees depend on distance from Santa Clarita. Because I also teach at Antelope Valley College, I have private students in Lancaster and Quartz Hill. For students coming to my home, the very FIRST lesson is FREE!  I promise you will find my rates are competetive and a bargain. Also I offer a discount for a 2nd (or 3rd!) student in the same household.

Ages / Skill Levels Taught

I will teach anyone who is interested, at age 6 and up. PARENTS: to ensure success, please wait until your child shows signs of interest in music. SENIORS: it's never too late to begin! I have very happy retirees doing just that and loving it! TEENS: I teach beginning to advanced to college entrance level. MUSIC MAJORS: several of my students won scholarships to universities as music majors! HOBBYISTS: any pieces you always wished you could play? Are you inspired to play for friends, family, a combo or band, for church--or for your own enrichment? EVERYONE: Don't worry about where you're starting. Let's begin & have fun learning!

My Certifications and Awards

Pi Kappa Lambda, Magna Cum Laude, ASCAP, working member of local 47, Cal Phil, have performed solo and chamber works by reknown living composers (at least at the time!) with the composer in attendance, and oboe concertos with local and regional orchestras in Southern California. Have also had my own orginal compositions performed at unusual venues (!) For more "blah-ba-bla-blah" please visit my website at: (contact me) or contact me for information.

My Musical Influences

Everything and anything but "rap" (!)

Service Area

Dalilah M
Mission Hills, CA

"Over the last three years Gordon Lazarus has been an exemplary role model as a musician to my daughter. The piano requires technique and specific counting, which has influenced and assisted, believe it or not, with her math skills. My daughter has been inspired by her piano teacher to strive for higher excellence. We are grateful for his patience and professionalism." - Mrs. Magdaleno

Samantha R
Quartz Hill, CA

"Since I first started with Gordon Lazarus last year, I have learned many valuable piano skills. I am very thankful for his excellent teaching skills. I have also had many laughs with him! I have definitely progressed a lot since I began with him and am very thankful :)"

Ting T
Santa Clarita, CA

Gordon is an amazing piano teacher, and we have a lot of fun in classes. I'm totally new to piano, but I really enjoy the class and learn little by little! Thank you very much, Gordon.

Sae H
Lancaster, CA

"Thanks for believing in me. You're a great teacher!"

Levi C
Sylmar, CA

"If you want to learn to play the piano, go see Dr. Lazarus. He is a fun-loving teacher who cares very much."

Reyna G
Lake View Terrace, CA

"I highly recommend Gordon Lazarus for anyone interested in piano lessons. He is a kind, patient instructor, and anyone would benefit under his tutelage."

Walter P
Lancaster, CA

"Dr. L. makes a great music coach."

Kathleen L
Lancaster, CA

"Dr. Lazarus knows how to communicate in a way that makes the piano more user-friendly to the student. I strongly recommend him."

David H
Lancaster, CA

"Lessons with Dr. Lazarus are a blast--and the best stress reducer I can imagine."