Clarinet Lessons in Amherst, OH

Instruments: Clarinet

I have been teaching since I was in Highschool, specifically tutoring younger kids while I was a senior. From there, I helped with sectionals while I was at Baldwin Wallace University. When I started at the University of Akron, I accepted a full Clarinet assistant ship, teaching private lessons to Undergraduate Clarinetists and coaching chamber music. Nothing brings me more joy to see my students learning something knew, struggling to learn a new concept and finally understanding it (i.e.- learning the proper way to breathe). Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Taught and performed for for 30 years... But seeing and hearing is believing, I've posted a video of me playing ajazz demonstration of a Hubert Laws composition.. This was part of my therapy after open heart surgery and a mini stroke.. Some doctors believe as a musician the use of both sides of my brain may have contributed to a speedy recovery..I believe my 7th cranial nerve damage, completely paralyzing the left side of my face, was healed by the Grace of God, first, and the gift He gave me called Music. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My approaches change depending on a students age, experience, and personality. Every student is unique and has their own musical language to develop and it is my philosophy that unique students require unique approaches. All of that being said, I utilize lesson time as efficiently as possible to give students the tools they need to progress in their own solo practice. One of my teachers once said "I am only your teacher for an hour each week, that means for 167 hours a week you are your own teacher." This adage shaped my approach to lessons so that I can give students the ability to practice as effectively as possible. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

I bring the highest artistic and pedagogical standards and premiere academic credentials from the Cleveland Institute of Music where I completed both a Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Clarinet Performance. I have had extensive experience in solo, chamber, and orchestral performance, which has provided me with a clear understanding of the level of artistry required for success in the current musical scene. I have been regularly engaged by The Cleveland Orchestra since 2008. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Euphonium French Horn Tuba

I focus beginning students the value of good air support and aim to get them the best tone possible. From there, I get them playing songs that they recognize, teaching both by ear and with a method book. I believe it is important for students to be exposed to quality musicianship as often as possible, so I play for them regularly and have them try to copy my phrasing and sound. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginner saxophone and clarinet players I tend to use the first book in the series from Standard of Excellence. After those first two books I move them into the Rubank Intermediate Series of books. For saxophonist, and even some clarinetist that would like to learn some jazz I use the Lennie Niehaus Jazz Conception Series. I always try to find what the student would like to learn to play and then guide my teaching from that point. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Organ Piccolo

I use the Alfred Piano series for most of my piano students. Woodwind students will use either Rubank or Hal Leonard series of books. During the first lesson, I will clarify the student's goals and needs and choose a book accordingly. I also add finger warm-ups and breathing exercises. Students are encouraged to pick a song from their own choosing to learn as a "fun-song". I try to cover these three things in every lesson, however I am flexible to meet the goals of my students. My professional motto is that I will do "Whatever it takes" for my students to succeed. Read More