Guitar Lessons in Omaha, NE

Instruments: Saxophone

If you weren't a musician what do you think you'd be doing instead?
I would likely still be a teacher, but for a different subject. Probably Math. I loved that too when I was in school. I've also taken a liking to cars, so I could perhaps be working as an auto mechanic or doing something else in the auto industry.

What does a normal practice session look like for you?
We will start with long tones to warm up. Select scales and arpeggios will come next. If possible, we will do exercises relevant to the material being practiced. For example, blues scales will be done to lead into jazz tunes and improvisation. Next, we will address solos, concert music, or any other material that needs addressing. Finally, we will warm down with long tones. Depending on the circumstances, I would do some sight-reading with my students as well. I would either challenge them to read and play a piece of music on their own, or I will play a duet with them.

Do you use specific teaching methods or books? (Ex: Alfred, Bastion, Suzuki, Hal Leonard) Why did you choose them if you did?
The Rubank Method books are simple, to the point, and set a great foundation. Jamey Aebersold's books do the same for jazz/pop music and improvisation. If your school offers you a specific method book, we may use that to keep things consistent for you. After all, there isn't a truly bad method book out there. The overall goal of lessons will be to rely on method books less and less over time, although you may return to them from time to time.

Why did you choose your primary instrument?
Simple answer: the Saxophone is COOL. I've always loved the sound and feel of the instrument. The instrument is also extremely versatile. It has been embraced by every style of music. Unlike most other acoustic instruments, you can truly make the sound your own.

What musical accomplishments are you most proud of?
It would have to be a very ambitious senior recital in college that contained about an hour's worth of music. It was wonderful to share and perform.

What do you think is the hardest thing to master on your instrument?
For me personally, it's the altissimo register (notes above the true range of the instrument.) This skill takes a lot of time and patience to discover, let alone master. It's a lot like discovering a hidden passageway in a video game that not many people know about.

What advice do you have about practicing effectively?
The number one priority is that you play every day, whatever that entails. Being a musician is similar to being an athlete. As such, too much time off will cause you to lose progress in your training. Play every day.

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