Saxophone Lessons in Community, VA

Instruments: Voice Saxophone

First of all I feel the student should be comfortable and relaxed with playing music you shouldn't be tense (hence the pocket). Secondly, they should know every aspect of their instrument. And thirdly, they should know how to hold and play their instrument (with fingers or mouth). also through some music theory in. But, foremost I want the student to enjoy playing so, they can pick what ever they want to learn. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Clarinet Recorder

My teaching experience dates back to four years ago when I had completed my AA degree in Music and I had decided to volunteer teaching music to both my old secondary school (high school) and the Barbados Pathfinder Band recruit program which I was a Band member of. Those sessions involved teaching the basics of music theory, aural skills, the rudiments of their instruments and the practice of discipline in practicing and the maintenance of their instrument(s).Therefore I believe that I can combine those same methods plus the 'new' ones that I have enquired over the past two years to make our music sessions fun, motivational and educational.Thus causing you to look forward in enhancing your need for learning about your instrument and yourself, the musician. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For the past decade I have been performing with the U.S. Navy Music Program in places like Australia, Japan, Costa Rica, New Orleans, and Norfolk, Virginia. I've been a featured soloist on clarinet and saxophone with concert bands, jazz bands, rock groups, and brass bands. Before joining the Navy I taught band and woodwind classes for a public school in Northeast Ohio, and I'm excited to begin working with students in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning elementary and middle school students I usually use Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once my student has a working knowledge of the fundamentals, I introduce music that will build confidence and keep the student's interest. Although I am using a method book, it is just a guide. Along the way, I may supplement the book with other exercises to work on specific techniques. For adults, I first assess my student's skill level, and we talk about goals and a realistic practice schedule. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bassoon

Although it is my responsibility to teach fundamentals of playing the instrument and reading music correctly, I spend as much time as I can on not becoming enslaved to the printed page. In other words, once a student begins to play at a higher level, I introduce how to express oneself and the music in an aesthetically satisfying manner. Breaking down the barriers caused by musical notation and enabling an individual to express themselves musically and with proper phrasing and sensitivity is my primary goal. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet Music

Classes for beginners will focus on tone quality, articulation, rhythm, reading music, and playing in time. Students will learn breathing and fingering techniques as well as structured routines for practicing at home. Intermediate players will begin by mastering the 12 major scales and arpeggios in straight and swing patterns. Basic 12-bar blues structure will be introduced and students will learn to improvise using the blues and pentatonic scales. Students will begin to develop an appreciation for different styles of jazz through listening and ear training. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Drums Music

I believe in a gentle but firm approach to teaching. Also I will always meet my students where they are at individually and build them up from there. I don't believe in a "one size fits all" sort of method. I know discipline goes hand in hand with music, and the music doesn't come from the instrument but rather the musician. Part of my teaching method includes physical conditioning, I expect all of my students to care for their bodies as well as their instruments and I make no exception to this rule. Read More