James Daly
Owner of San Ramon Academy of Music
Piano & Composition Instructor
About James
Hello! My name is James Daly and I teach piano and am the owner of the San Ramon Academy of Music.
I believe in developing more than just “good musicians.” Let’s use music as a vehicle to develop the skills that make us better people; empathy, patience, perseverance, courage, and optimism. This inextricable connection of your ‘best self’ and ‘best musician’ is why I’ve had the privilege of working with some of my students for years. Music is a powerful vehicle for some of life’s most important lessons.
For over 12 years I’ve taught piano, theory, and composition to students of all ages. I earned my bachelor’s degree in music from UC Berkeley with an emphasis on performance and composition, and written dozens of internationally performed piano works, chamber pieces, and orchestral music.
I also studied at the University of Manchester and performed classical repertoire across Europe as both a soloist and accompanist.
Aside from teaching, I enjoy spending my free time at the gym, cooking, drawing, and reading.
Book With James
“I didn’t want my son to be turned off to piano because of all the practicing. Lots of work but not a ton of play. James brings enthusiasm and joy to the discipline. He picked up my son’s style and personality, and could flow according to my son’s uniqueness/playfulness.”
“My biggest concern is if my kids don’t enjoy and have no progress over a significant amount of lessons time. So far your role as a teacher has been very helpful in making my kids interested & focused on their lessons”