Tonga is a proficient multi-instrumentalist and experienced instructor. He has spent extensive time within education, both in and out of the classroom: 7 years as a private instructor, 5 years as a teacher's assistant to Kamau Kenyatta at UCSD (2009-2014), former music faculty member to California State Summer School for the Arts (2011-2012), and Assistant Jazz Band Instructor at The Bishop's School (2008-present day). He provides instrumental lessons for piano, guitar, and bass as well as coaches music students on jazz harmony and composition. He enjoys teaching students of all ages and levels throughout San Diego.
If you are interested in taking lessons on piano, guitar, bass, jazz theory/composition, or music appreciation please reach Tonga through the Contact tab for pricing and scheduling!
If you are interested in taking lessons on piano, guitar, bass, jazz theory/composition, or music appreciation please reach Tonga through the Contact tab for pricing and scheduling!
Testimonials
"We are so fortunate to have been introduced to Tonga. He has been such a wonderful influence and mentor for my son. He is not your average guitar teacher. He is passionate about music and a gifted musician himself. His teaching of music theory, music genres and technique far surpass any teacher we have known. My son loves his lessons and has grown tremendously with Tonga's guidance."
"We are so fortunate to have been introduced to Tonga. He has been such a wonderful influence and mentor for my son. He is not your average guitar teacher. He is passionate about music and a gifted musician himself. His teaching of music theory, music genres and technique far surpass any teacher we have known. My son loves his lessons and has grown tremendously with Tonga's guidance."
Leigh, mother of Josh, a 14 year old guitar student
*****
"I have been taking guitar lessons with Tonga for about a year and a half now. Definitely the best experience I've had with any music instructor. He is well-versed in a wide range of musical styles and has the theoretical knowledge to explain how it all works. Not only is Tonga a great musician, he is also a true professional when it comes to music education."
Nathan, a 21 year old jazz guitar student
*****
"Tonga is an excellent musician and a fantastic music teacher. For the last 2 years he has given my two sons (ages 9 &10) lessons in guitar and ukulele. He has also given several lessons to my husband. His love and talent for music show is his lessons. He is reliable, on time, and has a great sense of humor. I highly recommend him as a music teacher for any age student."
Lenore, mother of Gus (ukulele) and Cyrus (guitar), ages 9 & 10
*****
"I have been taking guitar lessons with Tonga for about a year and a half now. Definitely the best experience I've had with any music instructor. He is well-versed in a wide range of musical styles and has the theoretical knowledge to explain how it all works. Not only is Tonga a great musician, he is also a true professional when it comes to music education."
Nathan, a 21 year old jazz guitar student
*****
"Tonga is an excellent musician and a fantastic music teacher. For the last 2 years he has given my two sons (ages 9 &10) lessons in guitar and ukulele. He has also given several lessons to my husband. His love and talent for music show is his lessons. He is reliable, on time, and has a great sense of humor. I highly recommend him as a music teacher for any age student."
Lenore, mother of Gus (ukulele) and Cyrus (guitar), ages 9 & 10