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
james-daly

“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”