Saxophone Lessons in City Of Industry, CA

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I have been teaching students consistently for over 30 years and have been teaching in my home studio for the last 10 years. Regular practice on a daily schedule is key for anyone wanting to achieve a level of proficiency that yields satisfaction on any level. Several of my students have gone on to professional employment on Broadway, touring bands, and recording studios as well as becoming private instuctors, music directors, and school music teachers. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Harp Accordion Harmonica Lap Steel Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Lute Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Shakuhachi Oboe Bassoon English Horn Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Derek is most known for his association with the John Daversa Big Band. Derek has had the pleasure of meeting and performing with many of his musical heroes. He has recorded live and studio albums with Arturo Sandoval, Jon Faddis, John Fedchock, James Morrison, Greg Gisbert, Roger Ingram, Paul Stephens, Scott Englebright, Donny Dyess, the Tastee Bros, Bernard Wright, Gene Coye, Steve Reid, Kate Reid, Melvin Butler, Ed Calle, Richard Todd, Mike Brignola, Alex Norris, Dante Luciani, John Hart, Martin Bejerano, Chuck Bergeron, Rick Margitza, and appears on the Gary Lindsay album "Are We Still Dreaming" with the South Florida Jazz Orchestra. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

As an instructor at an after-school music academy, I coached jazz ensembles ranging in size from big band to combo and taught private saxophone lessons. From teaching students of most age levels, I have learned several approaches to teaching jazz music and improvisation. Connecting with each student in a way they understand and find enjoyable almost always leads to quicker and more satisfying results for the student. I am currently a teaching artist for the Herbie Hancock Institute through UCLA. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

Generally speaking I also like to teach music theory and ear training during my lessons so that the students can improve all of their musical skills. This has showed to be crucial especially if they are interested in improvisation and playing contemporary music genres such as jazz / funk / rock / blues. For more advanced players and adults I start by getting an understanding of what they like to play and what are their goals and adjusting my methods according to them. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

By letting students practice how to improvise, students will learn not only the instrument itself, but also start to build a concept of ear-training, as well as music theory. To me, the music comes first than the music theory, which is why music theory always serves people's ear. I would have students learn how to play and hear chords, create a musical vocabulary and enjoy themselves. After letting them hear music, I will explain why they are hearing what they are hearing instead of letting them read it from a chart and not explaining why. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

There's a thing about certain musicians who have made it very far. For example, Charlie Parker never would've been Charlie Parker if Jo Jones didn't chuck a cymbal at him when he messed up. He never would've wanted to sit and practice for hours and hours a day to become who he became. I won't go that far, but it's just an example, I will give good constructive criticism to make sure that my students progress as much as they can to become the next Charlie Parker. 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