Steven F
Instruments: Saxophone, Clarinet
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, R&B, Funk, Hip Hop, Latin Jazz, Swing, Avant-garde
Steven F
Instruments: Saxophone, Clarinet
Styles:
Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, R&B, Funk, Hip Hop, Latin Jazz, Swing, Avant-garde
Where I Teach:
In Your Home
My Studio
Ages Taught: 5-80
ABOUT
Degrees / Training / Special Info:
Manhattan School of Music BM, New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music, 2013
Awards:
2013 Valedictorian of the New School For Jazz and Contemporary Music
2013 Performed at the Bern Jazz Festival in Switzerland
2013 Performed as the Special Guest at "Highlights In Jazz" 40th anniversary concert, Tribeca PAC, NYC
2012 Performed as a part of the "New Generation Stars" group at the 39th anniversary concert of "Highlights in Jazz".
Overview:
Originally from Croton On Hudson, NY, I am a lover of all the aspects of music! I was the Valedictorian of the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in 2013, and I also attended Manhattan School of Music for two years prior. Music is my life, and I am a passionate performer and teacher. I have had much experience performing, recording and teaching in the the NYC/Hudson Valley areas for over 5 years. I've been featured at the Bern Jazz Festival in Switzerland, and have also played at many NY venues including the Bitter End, Fat Cat, Smalls, The Falcon Arts Center and many others.
EXPERIENCE
The roots of my teaching experiences began at the Lagond Music School in Elmsford, NY. There I taught in the College Preparatory Summer Program, and led classes in Theory, Rythym, Improvisation and Sight Reading. I also taught 4th and 5th grade saxophone classes at P.S. 290 in New York City through the Manhattan School of Music outreach program. Today I am teaching privately and as the woodwind instructor at a local music school.
METHODS USED
As a Saxophonist and Clarinetist I prescribe to the Joe Allard method of embouchure and technique that has been codified and popularized by saxophone master and pedagog, Dave Liebman, from whom I have taken countless classes. For my classical students, I like to use the Rubank method books. For more advanced students, I am a huge fan of the Rose Studies for Clarinet and the Ferling studies for Saxophone. Both of these books not only provide great etudes for technique but also are great studies in musicality, theory and interpretation. For my Jazz students, I still use these books, though not exclusively. Jazz studies includes more focus in Theory, Rythym, Improvisation and Analysis.
LESSON STYLE
While my teaching style does depend on the age and level of the student, there are a few values that I maintain. Firstly, one must take good care of their instrument and make sure it is in working order. Often times a student's sound and ability can be compromised by the condition of the instrument they are playing. I make sure to check my student's instruments for issues that can lead to difficulty in playing. When an instrument is physically easy to play, it is much more enjoyable to practice! Other areas that I focus on include posture, breath support, emboucher, and reed placement. These are fundamentals of a woodwind player, and with some attention can make the playing experience that much more gratifying. I also encourage students to learn about the history of the music they are studying and their instrument. I have a great passion for the tradition and history of western music, and find that knowledge of this tradition can inspire one to improve and study. Most importantly of course is for my students to have fun during their lessons and to notice the improvements they are making. Also, I make sure to help a student with their own goals and desires, especially adults who wish to get back into it or learn a different style. I am a very enthusiastic person and my greatest joy is to spread my passion of music with everyone.
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