Saxophone Lessons in Bedford, NY

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder

For beginning young students I prefer the Rubank Elementary Method for saxophone, clarinet and flute, and my own (unpublished) method for recorder. For older beginners, there are many books on the market. I'll work with what the student perfers. For more advanced students there are classic works such as Klose for clarinet or saxophone, solo works for competition or performance, or just for fun. I want recorder students to learn the 2 basic sets of fingering, since ensemble playing usually requires changing instruments. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I believe that in order to engage a student in the learning process, goals must be clear. I begin by asking new students what they want to learn. Many students are not sure what they want to learn, and this is to be expected. In this case, some trial-and-error is necessary; if a student is bored by Bach, maybe its time to see how he/she can relate to learning a simple tune by ear maybe a jazz tune like Summertime, or maybe the latest single on the radio. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

On the basis of one's skill and prior experience, I will devise a plan starting with ideas of fundamental musical ideas (scales, arpeggios, key signatures, reading music) all the way to more advanced concepts of harmony and placement. Having the opportunity to hear a student's wishes will help me align myself with their goals and intentions musically which will inform my concepts. While there is an expectation that the student gives assistance in their difficulties to decide what is best for them, there also will be a thorough diagnosis of skills and weaknesses, for a better learning experience. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder

I enjoy many different types of music, and am stylistically very versatile. Some of my favorites include Brazilian, Latin, classical, Broadway and musical theater, and popular music. In addition to attending The Berklee College of Music, and completing my degree at SUNY Empire State College, Ive been lucky enough to have studied my instruments and composition with some musical greats like Joe Henderson, Joe Lovano, Jim McNeely, Lyle Mays, and more. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Keyboard

I typically tailor my lesson plans to the needs of the student. In general, I will allocate appropriate Etudes, Scales, and Repertoire that is inline with their abilities and the standards of their particular instrument. If they are preparing for an upcoming performance or audition, that may take precedent. But I also think there is equal need for unstructured time that allows students to explore music as a creativity medium via music listening, exploratory exercises, improvisation, or even composition. 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: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Clarinet

I began teaching lessons when I was in college five years ago, and have continued teaching in New Jersey. I do not yet have a home studio, but am willing to go straight to the student as well as conduct online lessons. I taught elementary and middle school music in the Oakland Public School District, and taught elementary general music at Sporting Hill Elementary School. I continue to teach music as a part of the Indian Hills Marching Band staff. Read More