
Notes Music Academy: A welcoming, community-focused hub for learning, performing, and growing in Oakland's Fruitvale.
Notes Music Academy is a welcoming nonprofit in Oakland's Fruitvale offering lessons in drums, piano, and voice. Instructors are patient, enthusiastic, and focused on technique, helping students build confidence. The space features a live performance area adjacent to the school and opportunities to record, perform, and grow as a musician, all in a warm, community-minded environment.
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One-on-one instruction in drums, piano, voice, and other instruments tailored to individual pace and goals.
Interactive sessions for skill development, music theory, and ensemble playing in a collaborative setting.
Access to an on-site stage for students to showcase their talents and gain confidence in front of an audience.
Lessons in audio recording techniques and music production for aspiring artists and engineers.
Non-profit initiatives and events designed to enrich the Oakland community through musical engagement and education.
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Overall rating
Carly
I’ve been taking drum classes with Cody and it’s been so comfortable and at a great pace. He really pushes you to be confident and focuses a lot on technique of holding drumsticks. I always feel pretty excited but nervous (only because I’m new to it) for my drum lessons, but once I’m drumming, I feel more confident and Cody reinforces technique and is super patient with me to go over notes. I really lucked out on having him as a drum teacher. I love how enthusiastic and borderline obsessed about drums (in a good way!) as he is haha. He really seems to care and is genuine. He always remembers to give some positive reinforcements and corrects you in a way that isn’t condescending - which I love!! I’m so glad I picked Notes Music Academy to do my drum lessons at :)
Kaya Chester
I have been taking singing lessons with Sage Waters at Notes for a couple months now and I can already see exciting results. She and everyone else there are so welcoming and kind; you can really feel that they want to see you succeed. These have been my first formal lessons for my voice and this was definitely the best place for me and my journey.
Kimberly Brenner
I haven't personally taken a lesson here, but the space is beautiful and the staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. I saw two kids smiling with delightful after their lessons. This is the perfect environment to cultivate musical skills and appreciate the healing force of music in our lives. I'm very impressed!
Sage Waters
I'm one of the vocal teachers here at Notes, and I've taught at other schools, and this is my Haven, I LOVE working here!!! Notes Music Academy has given me a elegant platform to share my knowledge. We have the freedom as teachers to engage our students on multiple platforms, be it learning an instrument, learning to control your voice, recording, learning to record others, or trying out being on a stage for the first time, in our very own live performance space adjacent to the school. We literally have it all! I think the thing I love best about Notes Music Academy, is that it's a musician's dream and a little help from his friends🎶 that brought this school to life, with love, care, and a plan. We are now a non-profit and are so proud to be serving all you dreamers in our beautiful Oakland!!! We welcome you for a tour, and a chat about what we all have agreed to love, Music!
Ann Smith
I started taking piano lessons with Simon Russell at Notes Music Academy about 3 months ago and every lesson feels like a gem. Not only is his knowledge base and talent immense, he is also kind. So. Kind. He works with where I am musically and at whatever pace I need. My understanding and appreciation for Jazz, Blues and Gospel are growing by the week. I was thrilled to see a Music Academy sprout up right in my neighborhood in the Fruitvale, and I have not been disappointed. Absolute asset to the community! Grateful.