Saxophone Lessons in Capistrano Beach, CA

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

While all of my students study the same fundamental musical principles, I believe that every lesson should be as unique as every person. That's why I always create new, customized lesson plans and provide individualized materials for all of my students. In my experience, this approach is most effective at increasing the student's musical ability—and it's a lot more fun! Rather than just going cover to cover through a method book, we'll keep things interesting and fresh by playing music games (especially with younger students), composing our own music, listening to new artists, and working on pieces that are requested by the student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Keyboard

I focus on several different areas for every student, so that he/she can keep progressing in all areas of technic and musical knowledge: WARM-UPs, SCALES, MUSIC THEORY, SIGHTREADING, and PREPARED PIECES. And as all music students 'should', it's important to build a good habit of practicing with a metronome. My experience in both the civilian and military music communities has given me a very open-minded but direct approach to WHAT you should learn, and HOW FAST you should be able to progress each individual student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute

I enjoy seeing my students grow and I understand that patience is the key to success. I move at the pace of the student and I love to motivate my students to be great. Everybody learns differently and I take notice of that. I will run my lessons based on the student's strength and effectively develop the students weaknesses. I am fun to work with! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

Rick continues to explore and develop his musical voice. Becoming a requested sideman while continuing to compose and pursue his own projects define the commitment to creative expression so vital to him. He has been constantly inspired by music from many countries as a result of concerts and recordings with Gahnian master drummer Kofi Misiso and tabla master Trilok Gurtu. The beauty of music from exotic lands remains an inspriation for Rick to write new music.17 years residency as a freelance saxophonist in central europe resulted in an impressive list of credits both live and recording. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

First and foremost, I endeavor to contribute to a students' personal development, regardless of whether or not they intend to pursue music their entire lives. I hope to educate audiences as well as musicians, and ultimately, I want to share my love of music with as many people as I can! I love it when students have ideas about specific songs they want to learn or draw inspiration from, and use their interests to individually tailor their lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I like to play audio/recordings for the students when possible, so that the student has an idea of the style, or the piece that we are studying.  This gives them something to reference to, but also gives them an aural aspect in their playing/practice habits. I also model for them constantly, so that they get more visual and aural reinforcement.  I sometimes give them short music concept/vocabulary assignments, such as learning the names of the notes on the staff, counting rhythms, meters, etc; all having to do with music theory and musical concepts that can be directly applied to their practical aspect of playing. 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