Hi, I’m Belinda Salvidge and welcome to my site!

I teach people — young and old — how to make (and love) music.

I am a classically-trained musician originally from Brighton, England. Since moving to the San Francisco Bay Area to complete my Masters, I’ve taught thousands of students, started numerous bands, and played at hundreds of events.

I play and teach the violin, cello, viola, piano, and mandolin, and have students from all ages and abilities: from toddlers through to adult learners.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my eight-year-old daughter, enjoying the company of friends, and spending time outdoors.

My Teaching Philosophy

I focus on nurturing each student’s unique style of self-expression and creative flow whilst they develop confidence and discipline.

I believe everyone has musicality and the ability to play an instrument. Part of the issue, at times, is finding the right instrument. No two people are alike, and thus, different instruments speak to different people.

One of my greatest strengths as a teacher is my ability to ‘read’ my students. I use this understanding to develop a customized program for each student based on their learning level, their interests, and their aspirations. For example, an adult student quickly tires of nursery rhymes when they’re learning a new instrument, so I hand-pick different music to teach them the same skills and principles as they would learn in the more basic works.

I believe you’re never too old to learn new skills, and music is no different.

Professional accreditation and Education

I am a classically trained, accredited and certified music teacher. Since 1985, I have been accredited by the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (UK) and Trinity College of Music (UK). I have a Bachelor of Science (Psychology) from the City of London Polytechnic and a Masters of Arts (Psychology) from JFK University in Orinda, CA. Additionally, I have undertaken and passed a full CRB check (UK) and background check (California) in order to work with children.

I have taught school pupils in England and California, and have also designed and coordinated a comprehensive string program for local schools. Currently, I teach privately in Oakland, as well as at Music Time Academy in Livermore and Music Unlimited in San Leandro.

Have you always wanted to learn an instrument?

Did you give up on an instrument in your youth and wish to return to it?

Do you want your children to learn an instrument?

I can help you! Please contact me to enquire about signing up for lessons with me.