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Samara Rice Music Samara Rice Music
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Business Details
19 Years
experience
Contemporary Classical Music Composition & Instruction
We are a contemporary classical music composition and education studio based in Southern California. Our approach combines textural elements, unusual instrumentation, and extended performance techniques inspired by vivid imagery to create unique musical experiences. With a diverse portfolio of works performed by renowned ensembles, we specialize in bridging concert music with interdisciplinary collaborations in theatre, dance, animation, and film. Our educational services offer personalized music instruction rooted in decades of academic and practical training. Founded on a foundation of rigorous academic achievement, including degrees from UCSD and California State University, Long Beach, we maintain affiliations with professional organizations like ASCAP and the American Composers Forum.

Our technical expertise encompasses recording, mixing, and mastering techniques alongside instruction in music theory, composition, and instrumental performance. Through Samara Rice Music, we provide comprehensive music education services tailored to individual student needs. This integrated approach to creation and teaching establishes us as leaders in Southern California's contemporary music scene.
Recording Session Bowed Piano Ensemble
Services
Music Composition Private Music Instruction Film Scoring Chamber Music Arrangements Contemporary Composition Workshops Music Theory Instruction Interdisciplinary Collaborations Custom Soundtrack Creation Performance Coaching Composition Consultation
Served areas
  • Huntington Beach and Surrounding Areas
Details
  • Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
  • We offer compositions performed by prestigious ensembles including Friction Quartet and HOCKET
  • Our owner holds advanced degrees from UCSD and California State University, Long Beach
  • Our team maintains professional affiliations with ASCAP and American Composers Forum
  • We provide personalized music instruction through Samara Rice Music studio
  • Our expertise spans 15+ years of interdisciplinary collaborations in music and performing arts
Associations and certifications
  • Music Teachers' Association of California (MTAC)
  • Music Teachers' National Association (MTNA)
  • California Association of Professional Music Teachers (CAPMT)
  • Certified Music and Movement Teacher (MusicTogether)
  • The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP)
  • California State University, Long Beach Composers' Guild
  • Department Honors in Music with Distinction from The University of California, San Diego
  • The Steward Prize: for an outstanding creative work
  • Provost Honors, 6 quarters, University of California, San Diego
  • Scholarship for Achievement in Saddleback College's Applied Piano Program
  • Dean's List, 7 semesters, Saddleback College
  • Music Teachers National Association
Website
People
Samara Rice
Owner/Composer
Contemporary classical composer and educator with master's degree from California State University, Long Beach. Recognized with UCSD's Steward Prize for creative work, she studied under renowned composers and maintains professional affiliations with ASCAP and American Composers Forum.
Questions
Do you accept commissions for new compositions?
Yes, we welcome composition commissions for solo instruments, chamber ensembles, and multimedia projects.
What music instruction options are available?
We offer private lessons in composition, music theory, piano, and violin through Samara Rice Music studio.
Can you create soundtracks for film projects?
Yes, our film scoring services combine traditional composition with modern production techniques for custom soundtracks.
What performance experience do you have?
Our works have been performed by notable ensembles including Friction Quartet, HOCKET, and Southern California Brass Consortium.
Videos
Reviews (7)
Gail Heywood
Jun 23, 2022 Report
Ms. Rice is an extremely dedicated and professional educator and small business owner. She always gives 150% to each student and provides many activities for their growth. If you're looking for a kind, experienced teacher, this is where your children need to come for music lessons.
Melissa Murphy
Jun 16, 2022 Report
Samara Rice's depth of musical study is immense, and even more remarkably, she shares her bank of knowledge with humility, warmth, and ease. She is a rare talent able to meet any variety of needs with skillful patience. As a colleague in music pedagogy, I have had the pleasure of working with Samara Rice in a professional capacity over the years and respect her experience to the utmost. Moreover, her honest communication has established her as a trusted source in the community--I know anyone who turns to her will be in good hands. Samara Rice sets the example of professional, informed, supportive music teaching.
Porky Chop
Jan 31, 2022 Report
Samara Rice truly has the gift of teaching children piano. She is very patient and professional, and yet very sweet. My two girls loved the piano after taking lessons from her, and my one daughter is even continuing with lessons in college. That is how Samara instilled the love of music in them. We really appreciated her always being on time and always a good communication line was open. You will not be disappointed in her methods.
Sam Cosio
Mar 17, 2021 Report
My son just finished his first semester of piano instruction at Samara Rice Music and he loved it. Samara is so patient and calm with him, it is the perfect energy to support a positive, encouraging learning environment. We will definitely be continuing lessons next semester!
Victoria D. Victoriouseveryday
Apr 27, 2020 Report
My teen daughter has been with Samara for four years and loves Samara's teaching style. She wanted a teacher that would allow her to select the music she would like to play, while teaching her techniques to help her improve her piano skills. Samara was the perfect fit. My daughter has become confident in who she is as a pianist and has found a love in playing piano for her own pleasure. Thanks you, Samara!
Kavitha Koshy
Mar 26, 2020 Report
Samara is an amazing piano teacher. My son, now 12, has been her student for over five years. It's been incredible watching her work with him. Her music selections are thoughtful, and a great combination of contemporary and classical music. She knows how to engage kids, giving them enough space to explore their interests while introducing them to new music. There's always a mix of jazz and Star Wars theme songs and Beethoven going on, even when we've been home-bound and learning remotely this year. So much fun! Keep going Samara.
Melissa Jean Terry
Dec 15, 2019 Report
If you want a piano teacher that is knowledgeable and charming, with skills ranging from standard repertoire to the delightfully unique, Samara is the one to go to! She has years of experience with teaching and also a vast understanding of music composition. She will make music fun for you or your child. I have loved learning about music with Samara over the years and definitely recommend her.