Saxophone Lessons in Aurora, OR

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I believe that it's best to learn by example, and in music this is often by demonstrating with the instrument. I will always have my instrument out to play along, or demonstrate what I am expecting. I expect my students to practice what is assigned to them so we can both have a productive session with each other, however I do understand that life happens. I try different techniques throughout the lesson to ensure that what I'm teaching is resonating with the student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

I've been a professional music educator for over 10 years, teaching students from elementary school to those in retirement. I love music and I love sharing it with others through performing and teaching. Watching my students' musical worlds expand is what I love best about this profession. I've played in just about every type of musical situation from orchestra, band, chamber music, and solo classical recitals to jazz bands, singer/songwriter, musical theater, world music, and avant-garde settings. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I encourage my students to be technically proficient, musically literate, and good listeners. Having these core fundamentals down prepares my students to be able to play any style of music they choose. Lessons are always customized to fit the musical preferences of the student.  I use my preferred method books but am able to incorporate the books the student already owns within the lesson plans.  I encourage the use of technology such as smartphones, iPads, and play-a-longs as teaching aids. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Clarinet Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I do my best to be a relaxed, grounded teacher who reminds the student to relax and enjoy the process of making music. I do listening exercises, clapping, counting, reciting the letters of the notes with their voice, and demonstrate the songs they are learning to each student. Each lesson is a celebration of music in a carefree environment filled with song and smiles. I always find something I like in each performance. Read More

Instruments: Voice Saxophone Clarinet

My PRIMARY goal is to instill a love for music in my students. My goal is for my music students to keep music in their lives so that it is an important part of their world, long after they are finished taking music lessons.  My teaching experience includes all levels, from Middle School to University levels and adult students.  I have taught Choir, Jazz Bands, Orchestras, Music History and Music Theory; as well as private clarinet lessons to students ranging from beginners to advanced college students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Drums Synthesizer Ukulele Recorder Tuba Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Bassoon English Horn Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My philosophy for quality music education has three main parts: appreciation, practice, literacy. In no particular order... 1. The first part is exposure/appreciation of different musics, cultures and styles: The loving of music This includes: Active listening skills, genre playlists, history of solo repertoire/composers 2. The second part is the practice/performance of music, instruments, and vocally: The doing of music This includes: Physically clapping rhythms, singing, playing, performing, improvising 3. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Synthesizer

For beginning students, I have used Hal Leonard's Essential Elements as well as Nancy Faber's Adventures series. For piano students, I like to use Hanon exercises to develop not only necessary musculature but also disciplined use of a metronome for practicing. For students interested in exploring music theory and/or jazz, I use the Real Book combined with my own materials explaining the theory around chord symbols, chord scales, modes, and the like. Read More