Saxophone Lessons in Artesia, CA

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet

With beginning students, I start with the fundamentals of the instrument, including embouchure and finger technique, as well as the ability to breathe properly, which is fundamental to playing any wind instrument.  I also introduce beginning students to basic musical concepts, such as reading music, and tailor the musical selection to their tastes or to whatever group they are playing in, most often a school band class.  For more advanced students, I observe what areas the student needs the most work in and tailor the lessons specifically to dealing with those areas, as well as catering to their individual musical tastes. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I use the Rubank method of books as a traditonal conservatory approach to early progression. I find their systematic flow efficient and effective to consistent improvement. We would then move to fulfilling repertoire that would qualify the student for collegiate study and competitive performance. For those interested in jazz, pop, and rock, we would proceed to study several instruction books and recorded material that over the years I have found to successfully progress a student in those genres. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Saxophone Drums Mallet Percussion

Teaching the most basic concepts in how to build a chord or a scale by using formulas is my favorite way to approach the lesson. An individual's understanding of music is always changing therefore I feel it is better to change with them. Using methods which are proven is important, but the idea of improvisation during a lesson always keeps the interest for me and the student. Of course this depends completely on the age and the experience of a student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums

My methods depends on the skill level and interest of the student. Fundamentals are key, but I always try to incorporate them with music that the student is interested in learning. I believe that music should never be boring, and practicing should never be a chore! I also believe that musicians of all skill levels can and should improvise, as it is a fundamental form of creative expression that is often overlooked by classically trained musicians. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

I began teaching lessons while in high school. I first taught elementary and middle school students, eventually progressing to my high school peers. My primary goal with younger students is to inspire and develop their own interest in music. Consistent practice is much easier to accomplish when the student wants to improve on his/her own, rather than viewing practice as another homework assignment. I have been teaching for 15+ years, evolving significantly both as a saxophonist and teacher. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I began teaching as a student at OSU, then started teaching shortly after moving to California. I have been fortunate to have experience teaching students both individually and in group settings. My private students have been of all ages and different levels. One commonality I have found between students in these different settings is that they all have different goals and things that motivate them. With this in mind, I try to provide lessons that meet the individual needs of the student, while also keeping them engaged. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Euphonium

I think it is absolutely important to develop a teaching style that is based around positive reinforcement. Praising when you like what the student did. When you can tell there is progress from week to week, telling Jonny that you can tell he practiced is a brilliant way to inspire Jonny to associate hard work with progress. I live by the mantra, 2 praises and a wish, meaning offering 2 words of REAL positivity followed by constructive criticism. Read More