Saxophone Lessons in Ashburn, VA

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Piccolo Latin Percussion

For beginning students I like to start with the same book I learned; Essential elements by Hal Leonard. This book comes with a play along that serves as stimuli to the young ear. A compliment and more flute oriented book is Flute 101-103 Which ranges from beginners to medium-advanced students. During this period I will add repertoire appropriate to the level of the student and according to national standards like NISMA and All State. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I have been a private instructor for over fifteen years and have brought my students much success in their musical endeavors. I have performed in solo recitals, competitions, chamber ensembles, bands, and orchestras in Florida, Georgia, Missouri, Ohio, and West Virginia. I am also is the recipient of various music scholarships and the winner of several different clarinet competitions. Additionally, my students have received superior ratings at local and state Solo & Ensembles, selected as All-State band members, received top chair placements, and much more! Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Djembe

My approach to teaching is based on a large amount of communication between the students, the parents, and I. I love to know what my students are thinking in order to enhance what they are looking for in musicianship. I believe that musicians should be allowed to play and learn freely, however, the foundation given by learning jazz theory, gives any musicianship a bigger dynamic of playing for whatever genre they specifically like to play. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning elementary and middle school students I usually use Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once my student has a working knowledge of the fundamentals, I introduce music that will build confidence and keep the student's interest. Although I am using a method book, it is just a guide. Along the way, I may supplement the book with other exercises to work on specific techniques. For adults, I first assess my student's skill level, and we talk about goals and a realistic practice schedule. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

It is very important to me for students to have fun in lessons. That's my number one priority! Students who are enjoying playing their instrument are more likely to stick with it. My passion for music shines through in private lessons when I focus all of my energy on the one student. Watching the student grow and succeed is one of the greatest things about teaching. I am able to figure out what a student likes very quickly and use that to connect with them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Music Keyboard

My methods are different for every student, but I always start with fundamentals. This includes scales, exercises to improve sound and intonation, reading, writing, improvisation, and most importantly listening. Depending on the path the student choses, some areas will be focused on more than others. I will often introduce more advanced concepts early if the student displays interest in them. I am not the kind of instructor who will say "play your etudes first and then we can talk about improvisation." I almost quit shortly after I started music because I had an instructor with that outlook. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet Music

I grew up in the Washington DC area playing Clarinet, Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, and Baritone Sax. I attended Walt Whitman High School and was a member of its award winning Jazz Ensemble as a Tenor Saxophonist. In 2003 I was selected as the lead Alto Saxophonist for the Maryland All-State Jazz Ensemble. I went on to study Jazz at Emory University in Atlanta under Gary Motley and E.J. Hughes. Read More