About
John F. Donello
John Donello is a friendly and patient music teacher and composer who loves helping beginners and young students explore the world of music on their own terms.
With a degree in usic composition from Occidental College, he writes music for film, popular music, and video games, and brings that same creativity and passion into every lesson.
John specializes in making music fun and approachable for kids and beginners, teaching piano, guitar, basic music skills, and even beginner composition. His students enjoy a supportive, engaging environment where they can learn at their own pace and build confidence through music.
Lessons & Philosophy
Personalized Lessons
Tailored Music Education
Experience personalized instruction designed to cultivate both musical skill and creativity. Each lesson is thoughtfully tailored to the student’s unique goals, learning style, and interests. Whether building a strong foundation or exploring artistic expression, students are guided with patience, clarity, and care.
Guitar
Acoustic & Electric
Guitar lessons focus on chords, melodies, and learning familiar songs to build confidence and enjoyment from the very beginning. Beginners are guided step by step in a relaxed, encouraging environment. As students progress, they are introduced to the CAGED system, guitar tablature, and foundational techniques for lifelong musicianship.
Piano
Classical & Popular
Piano lessons emphasize proper technique, note reading, rhythm, and musical expression, all taught through engaging and accessible materials. Each lesson is designed to build a strong foundation and foster confidence, which then supports the student’s unique musical interests—whether classical, contemporary, or creative exploration.
Music Theory
Inspiring Creativity
Ideal for students seeking a deeper understanding of how music works, theory lessons explore note reading, intervals, scales, chords, and musical form. Instruction is thoughtfully adapted to each student’s level, pace, and goals. Whether supporting performance, composition, or overall musicianship, music theory provides the tools to think and create with clarity and confidence.
Composition/Song Writing
Artist Development
For students eager to create their own music, John offers instruction in both songwriting and composition. Lessons cover melody writing, harmony, lyrics, structure, and the creative tools needed to bring original ideas to life. Whether composing instrumental works or writing songs with words, students are encouraged to explore their voice and express themselves through music.
Production & Music Technology
A Digital World
John provides personalized music production lessons that guide students through the process of creating polished recordings from start to finish. Covering recording techniques, arranging, mixing, and mastering, these lessons blend creative artistry with technical skills. Using industry standard digital audio workstations, students learn how to bring their musical ideas to life with professional-quality sound.
STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
John is attentive and patient with my children’s learning needs for piano and guitar. John has an even and calming approach which is positive and encouraging—creating skill, knowledge, and a love of music in my children.
Heidi T (Parent)
I like how not only he is my piano teacher but my friend. He explains it in a way where I can understand and makes it so much more enjoyable for me to learn. He also teaches in a way where he can see where I need to improve and gives me the right thing to practice.
Holly T (Piano Student 12)
Hard to explain... but dont worry ! in a good way :). he is a teacher but one thing he has that other teachers don't is a nice way of teaching! he is also a great friend and a great teacher to learn from... now what are you waiting for HIRE JOHN RIGHT NOW UHEVBHBRFBWBFBHURFHWB
Cal T (Guitar Student 14)
Portfolio
Education
2020-2024
B.A. Music Composition
Occidental College
Magna Cum Laude
John studied music composition at Occidental College, where he developed a strong foundation in classical theory, orchestration, and contemporary writing. His time there deepened his passion for storytelling through music and honed his skills as both a composer and educator.
Work Experience
2022-2025
Audio Engineer & Producer
John has worked as an audio engineer and producer, recording, mixing, and mastering music across a variety of genres. His studio experience at Clear Lake Recording and Kingsize Soundlabs has provided invaluable insight into the professional music industry.
2022-2025
Music Educator
John has taught music at both Occidental College and Danman’s Music School, working with students of all ages and skill levels. At Occidental, he served as a teaching assistant in music theory and composition, supporting college-level instruction. At Danman’s, he provided private lessons in piano, guitar, and music fundamentals, helping young and beginner students build confidence and a strong musical foundation.
2022-2025
Arranger and Engraver
John has experience in arranging and orchestration for a variety of ensembles, from solo instruments to full orchestra. He has created custom arrangements for student performers, ensembles, and media projects, always aiming to enhance musical storytelling and bring out the unique character of each piece. His orchestration work reflects a strong command of instrumental color, balance, and dramatic pacing.
2024-2025
Composer Assistant
John worked as a composer’s assistant for film and television composer Michael Gatt, supporting both the creative and technical aspects of scoring for media. His responsibilities included preparing scores, organizing sessions, managing project files, and assisting with mockups and orchestrations—experience that gave him valuable insight into the professional scoring process and the collaborative nature of the industry.