About Derek

Inspiring Creativity Since 2000

Silbermann Studios has supported musicians, singers, and actors of all levels—from curious beginners to seasoned professionals—for over two decades. With 25 years of experience, Derek offers personalized, creative instruction rooted in diversity and artistic exploration.

Areas of Study Include:
🎶 Piano (all styles)

📝 Songwriting, Composition, Arranging

🎼 Music Theory & History

🎷 Jazz Improvisation

Proud Members of:
MTNA · ACDA ·  California PTA for Piano

Pianist • Composer • Educator • Music Director

A true musical multi-hyphenate, Derek is a pianist, composer, arranger, conductor, and educator with deep roots in classical, jazz, and contemporary music. Originally from Santa Barbara and Los Angeles, Derek began as a classical pianist before discovering composition—a path that allowed him to explore a wide range of instruments and styles.

He has composed hundreds of works for orchestra, band, piano, voice, choir, jazz ensembles, and experimental instruments, and has performed nationwide as a pianist, percussionist, conductor, and composer. As a ghostwriter, he contributed to the first two seasons of Desperate Housewives and the video game Jak and Daxter 3.

Derek holds a Bachelor of Music in Composition from California State University, Northridge, where he also trained in jazz and classical piano, organ, harpsichord, and film scoring. It was there he developed his signature "Augminished" sound and style. Derek also holds a Master of Music in Jazz Performance from San Jose State University.