Saxophone Lessons in Briarwood, NY

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Over the years, my students have consistently placed high in the Western Region Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Orchestra, and several of them have gone on to the extremely competitive Connecticut All-State Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Orchestra. Four of my students have successfully auditioned for the summer program at Interlochen. I have had two of my high school aged students have gone on to Harvard, one to Amherst, and three to Yale - all of whom played in the Yale Concert Band, Yale Jazz Ensemble, and/or Yale Symphony Orchestra. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music

As a teacher, I am learning from my students as well - each person is a unique journey in the world of music and each person teaches me something about communication, understanding, motivation, time-managing during lessons and in individual practice. My main objective is to make the lessons a joy, a positive, motivating experience, to boost self-confidence and provide enjoyment, fun. I teach different people differently, using my background in psychology of learning, understanding individual needs. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I began teaching lessons privately in college, and gained significant experience teaching online through the Covid shut down. My favorite aspect of teaching is sharing my love of the saxophone with my students, and passing on knowledge about the instrument that is not widely known or available. I have taught saxophone lessons at several music studios in both California and New York, as well as my own independent students. I also have an active performing career as a soloist, chamber musician, and large ensemble player. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I tailor my materials, method, and philosophies to the ability and goal of each student. Typically, regular students can expect lessons to cover fundamental aspects of playing the saxophone (embouchure development, technique exercises, etc..) as well as the music and etudes we may be covering. For students with an interest in music theory or improvisation, I like to learn those things alongside common jazz standards so that the knowledge you obtain can be immediately applied in a real musical setting. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Bassoon

My goal in teaching woodwinds is to inspire young artists to find the joy in their own development. As a teaching musician for the past nine years, I have found my own joy in teaching on-on-one and watching my students progress over time. I like to teach active lessons full of movement, creation, and student-driven ideas. I teach the instrument - the notes, rhythms, techniques, but my students shine in their ability to use that knowledge to create something new and to feel confident about it. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I had a very unique opportunity to be mentored by the legendary drummer/bandleader/NEA Jazz Master Chico Hamilton. I spent a lot of time with him on and off the stage. I was observing and loving all of these moments on tour and in the studio. I learned so many things from him, most importantly what it means to be a teacher. In order to teach, one should never stop learning. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

Robert Gilliam is a skilled musician and passionate teacher with a strong background in classical and jazz music. Holding a Bachelor of Music degree from the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University and currently pursuing a Master of Music at The Juilliard School, Robert has studied under renowned saxophonists Tim Green and Ron Blake. With experience as a performer alongside notable musicians and participation in prestigious festivals, Robert brings a wealth of knowledge and stage experience to his teaching. Read More