Professor of Funk.
“Your humanity is your instrument.”
~ Wayne Shorter
Welcome all!
Pleased to meet you! I’m Simon Keyser Petty, an esteemed multi-instrumentalist, producer, and educator here in the San Francisco Bay Area. Whether you are here as a prospective student for my group classes or investigating my portfolio for a hire, please enjoy the one minute introduction video below!
Classes and courses in 2025
90 minute classes, directed by Simon.
Our beginner band will go over the basics of contributing to a musical ensemble, and what it means to lead a musical life. From classic recordings of the 20th century, to the most current musical offerings, our song selections will be broken down, analyzed, and most importantly - Performed!
Students will have recording and performing opportunities at studios like Tiny Telephone and venues like the Verdi Club.
90 minute classes, directed by Simon.
The intermediate ensemble is for students who have a good grasp on repertoire, and want to become more serious about their musicianship with an eye on a career in music. Investigating a plethora of musical styles, we will find what it truly means for music to move people.
Includes Recording and gigging opportunities at legendary studios and venues like Hyde Street Studios, Tiny Telephone and Old Skool Cafe.
90 minute classes, directed by Simon.
Learn how the bread is baked in a studio! The studio ensemble seeks to equip students with a good understanding of how a world-class studio works - learn how to “mix in the box”, as well as getting hands on experience with outboard gear and tape!
Having run several full-budget projects in both Tiny Telephone and Hyde Street Studios, I am ready to share my knowledge with the next generation.
Recording opportunities galore with this one! We will work with Groove Ensembles #1 and #2 to reveal the magic of live studio recording.
Contact Me
Please reach me on the following form!
I will respond promptly, within 24 hours.
Looking forward to hearing from you!