Business Details
Expert Music Lessons for All Ages in Sunnyvale, CA
Founded by Mark Wilson, our school has been dedicated to music education for over three decades. Our 5-Star Method combines written materials and play-along audio to create an immersive learning experience. We offer personalized instruction for guitar, bass, drums, piano, ukulele, and Chapman Stick in professional studios designed for optimal acoustics. Our instructors bring extensive performance and teaching experience, with some having studied under industry professionals. We emphasize self-paced learning that builds confidence through modular course design. The program accommodates students from age 4 to seniors, with flexible scheduling available.Our teaching philosophy focuses on making music accessible while maintaining technical rigor. We provide both private lessons and group workshops to develop ensemble skills. Our materials have been recognized by Guitar World Magazine and adopted by university professors. Students benefit from our spacious, soundproof studios equipped with full PA systems and recording capabilities. We offer instrument rental options for beginners and maintain strict hygiene protocols for shared equipment. Our approach has produced successful musicians who have won awards and pursued professional careers in music.
Services
Guitar Lessons
Bass Lessons
Drum Lessons
Piano Lessons
Ukulele Lessons
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of developing proven music instruction methods
- Custom 5-Star Method with play-along audio accompaniment
- Spacious professional studios with full recording capabilities
- Experienced instructors with professional music performance backgrounds
- Flexible scheduling with optional appointment-based lessons
What people say
Excellent instructional materials
Patient instructors
Effective teaching methods
Enjoyable learning environment
Significant progress achieved
Services
Guitar Lessons
Our guitar lessons combine technical training with creative expression using the 5-Star Method. Students learn through written materials and play-along audio tracks that develop timing and improvisation skills. The program accommodates all skill levels from beginners to advanced players, with specialized instruction in multiple genres including rock, blues, and classical styles.
Bass Guitar Lessons
Bass guitar instruction focuses on rhythm development and ensemble playing using our proprietary play-along method. Students practice with full band accompaniment to develop timing and groove. The curriculum covers multiple genres including funk, jazz, and rock, with both fingerstyle and pick techniques emphasized.
Drum Lessons
Drum lessons utilize professional-grade kits in soundproof studios to develop technique and rhythm. Our method incorporates play-along tracks that simulate real band environments. Students learn various styles including rock, jazz, and Latin rhythms while developing coordination and improvisation skills through structured practice routines.
Piano Lessons
Piano instruction combines classical technique with modern performance skills using digital and acoustic instruments. Our curriculum develops reading ability, chord progressions, and improvisation through genre-specific materials. Students practice with accompaniment tracks that enhance timing and musicality across multiple styles from classical to contemporary.
Ukulele Lessons
Ukulele lessons focus on chord transitions, strumming patterns, and melody playing using the 5-Star Method. Students learn through play-along tracks that develop timing and rhythm. The program covers traditional Hawaiian styles as well as modern pop and rock arrangements, with emphasis on portable instrument technique.
People
Mark Wilson
Founder/Instructor
With over 30 years of teaching experience, Mark developed the 5-Star Method and authored 20 instructional books. He has trained students who became music professors and industry professionals, specializing in blues and classic rock instruction.
Josh Gonzalez-Beban
Instructor
A decade-long instructor who transitioned from student to teacher, Josh specializes in pop and rock styles. He emphasizes musical exploration and has developed teaching methods that help students discover their preferred instruments through hands-on experience.
Kevin Rollis
Instructor
With 25+ years of musical experience, Kevin brings professional band expertise to his teaching. He focuses on live performance techniques and stage presence, having played in award-winning bands while helping students develop practical performance skills.
Cole Davidson
Instructor
A former student turned instructor, Cole has taught for six years using methods developed through his own 12-year learning journey. He specializes in classic rock and folk instruction while incorporating leadership skills gained from his Boy Scout experience.
Questions
What instruments can I learn at 5 Star School of Music?
We offer instruction for guitar, bass guitar, drums, piano, ukulele, and Chapman Stick with specialized curricula for each instrument.
Do you teach both children and adults?
Yes, we teach students from age 4 to seniors with age-appropriate teaching methods and flexible scheduling options.
What music genres do you cover?
Our curriculum includes rock, blues, jazz, classical, folk, funk, and pop with specialized materials for each genre.
Are instruments provided for lessons?
Yes, we provide instruments for use during lessons and offer rental options for students needing equipment.
Can I try a lesson before committing?
Yes, we offer single lessons at standard rates with no obligation to continue, allowing you to experience our teaching approach.
Do you offer group lessons?
While primarily offering private instruction, we provide group workshops for ensemble playing and performance practice.
