Saxophone Lessons Suffolk County, VA

Instruments: Saxophone, Clarinet

My approach to teaching is that the student should be having a good time playing. There are so many different pieces of music out there, students can play a great variety of works at all different skill levels, and still be able to develop their intonation, articulation, and fingering accuracy. I will make sure students are working on pieces challenging enough so that they get something out of playing it, but not so challenging they are discouraged. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Saxophone, Bass Guitar, Ukulele, Keyboard, Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar

I love to see my students overcome challenges in music. My music teacher used to say, "nothing is hard, or difficult, just challenging." If students learn how to practice effectively on their own, learning new music becomes easier over time. I teach my students how to approach a certain rhythm, phrase, or fingering and the techniques to do so correctly such as by slowing down and practicing with a metronome, our muscle memory will be able to play it up to speed once it's learned. Read More

Instruments: Guitar, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet, Acoustic Guitar

First I like to get a snap shot of the student's goals and sources of inspiration, once I figure that out I can tailor my instruction around their wants and needs. I see myself as an accountability partner with my students and so I help my students set goals for their progress, celebrate their successes, and evaluate the shortfalls. I encourage loved ones to be a supportive and active part of the process as that encouragement can fuel a student's desire to grow. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone, Clarinet

I love seeing my students set and reach goals. I make sure that realistic goals are set and that I show the student the steps to reach those goals. If a student does not feel successful, then they are more likely to not practice as much or quit all together. I want my students to feel excited about music and want to practice. I try to find out what motivates and inspires each student in order to tailor my teaching to each individual. Read More

Instruments: Voice, Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet, Euphonium, Piccolo, Mallet Percussion

For my own beginner students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More