Clarinet Lessons Erie County, NY

Instruments: Piano, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet

I first ask the student to play so I can hear him/her. After a student plays a short piece of music of their own choosing I can determine what the next step is. Each student has his/her own individual needs. In general though I focus on 3 key elements: 1) Sound quality 2) Technical dexterity (how the fingers deal with the twists and turns of the instrument) 3) Reading Music If a student has a specific genre of music that he/she wants to focus on then I mainly concentrate on that. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet

For beginning students I typically start with an elementary band method (Yamaha, Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, etc..). We focus on basic tone production, finger technique, note reading, and playing simple songs. Once the student is comfortable we begin to work out of a duet book. This gives the student a chance to "perform" with me at each lesson, tends to accelerate progress, and is fun! For advanced students we can focus on particular areas of interest.Whether jazz, classical or popular music is your focus, refining various aspects of tone and technique are always incorporated into the learning process. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet

My teaching philosophy revolves around one core principle: the joy of musical growth. While technical proficiency is essential, my main goal is to ensure that every student relishes the journey of becoming a better musician. I firmly believe that the more you enjoy the process, the more motivated you become to excel. I emphasize your unique musical taste in my teaching approach because I understand that your personal connection to the material is a powerful motivator. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Trumpet, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet, Bass Guitar, Recorder, Double Bass, Music

For beginning woodwind students, I have had success using the Rubank method books as a starter. Alongside a method book, I like to work on material chosen by the student, as well as my own supplemntal exercises. It is important for the student to understand the musical concepts associated with the repertoire, as well as focusing on performing well. I also prefer to have my students keep a practice log book, in order to track their progress. For piano and music theory, I like to use the John Thompson method for beginner students, and the Bastien Piano Literature series for more advanced students. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Voice, Violin, Cello, Saxophone, Clarinet, Drums, Bass Guitar, Banjo, Mandolin, Tuba, Keyboard, Djembe, Acoustic Guitar

I am aware of the many people that have a great desire to learn about music. I view it as a language. Once you are able to read write and speak (singing or playing) you are fluent in music. I graduated from the Eastman School of music in 1977 and have played in several bands and sung in a multitude of singing groups during my life. I have taught music in all its forms for 40 years. Read More