Saxophone Lessons in Streamwood, IL

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My number one rule when teaching students about music is to HAVE FUN. Music is meant to be fun and bring joy to people. While in lessons, we will learn about scales and arpeggios and work through exercises. And, believe it or not, I have got some ways to make those fun! Depending on if you want to study classical music or jazz, we might study a sonata or transcribe a solo. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I have been a part of the City Music program for the last decade, both in Cleveland and in Boston. Through that, I have been able to both receive and pass on an excellent music education. I was a mentor for younger students when I was college, leading me to be involved in the local high school big bands. I would lead rehearsals, saxophone sectionals, and work one on one with students to make sure they were creatively and mentally engaged and that they knew what areas they could work on to improve. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Bass Guitar Synthesizer French Horn

Music provides students with both expression and community, both of which I believe students- and all people- need.As a teacher, I believe that my strongest commitment and my best effort are the birthright of each and every one of my students. Just as I believe that students who struggle should be given the additional help that they need in order to continue and eventually learn, I believe that students who excel should be offered the avenues that they crave in order to satiate their desires for greater challenges. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Ukulele Recorder Euphonium French Horn Tuba Electric Guitar Djembe

The approach, overall, is to drive toward the student's goal. When someone wants to learn how to play an instrument well enough to play in a band or orchestra, I usually consider two needs - playing music and interpreting written music. These are basic parts of education, literally easy to define by achieving pages in etude books. In addition, though, there is a third component to meeting the set goal: writing music - a sensibility that you can create. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Bassoon

For beginning students, I typically start with Hal Leanord's Essential Elements. Once the student has a grasp of their instrment and the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire and tecnique exercises. I will try to find out what the student is interested in to help guide my instruction and keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter the age or ability level. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I can remember the first time I heard the music of John Coltrane. I was thirteen and had just begun learning saxophone. His music was deeply moving and inspired me to pursue a life of music - specifically jazz saxophone. Best decision I've ever made! I graduated from Western Michigan University with a BM in Jazz Saxophone Performance. While in school I had the privilege of sharing the stage with many jazz greats including Bobby McFerrin, Randy Brecker, Stefon Harris, Fred Hersch, and many more. Read More