Saxophone Lessons in Deer Park, NY

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Piccolo Music

When teaching younger students, I prioritize developing a passion for music through engaging repertoire and positive encouragement, while instilling proper technique and organized practice with weekly progressive assignments. I also establish practice expectations and share progress with parents. In every lesson I demonstrate concepts by performing various woodwinds and piano, and by singing. Advanced students work towards external goals established in consultation with both students and parents like school concerts, honor band/orchestra auditions, or college applications, encouraging students to grow their musical community outside of the lesson studio. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Recorder

I began teaching woodwinds when I was 18 while attending Northern Illinois University. I would help junior high and high school students in the area in private lessons. At age 23 I began teaching music courses at Istanbul Bilgi University, in Turkey. After leaving Turkey in 2001, I have focused on private lessons, teaching students of all ages and ability levels. I have been fortunate enough to perform with many incredible world-class musicians such as Quincy Jones, Phil Collins, Tito Puente, Chaka Khan, David Sanborn, Toots Thielemans, Paquito DRivera and Gerald Albright. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums

My teaching includes all aspects of music; Musical theory, sight singing, as well as Music History. My teaching style allows the child to have fun while they learn their instrument, but I emphasize a strong practice regiment. Your child will understand that while learning music and an instrument can be fun, there will be some work involved if they want to become great. I usually use either the Alfred or Rubank method books to supplement a curriculum that I tailor make for each individual student. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

There is nothing more gratifying for me than watching my students grow over time. I believe that success is achieved with a healthy balance of slow methodical practice and frequently playing fun and challenging music. I believe that every student is different and there is no right way to teach an instrument. I try to tailor my lessons to the student's special way of learning to ensure that our time together is well spent. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music

I started playing in the 4th grade. I played in RB bands in high school and enrolled at Berklee College of Music where I have a Bachelor Degree in Composition. I also studied privately with Charles Banacos (increible piano and jazz teacher), Jerry Bergonzi, Joe Viola, Joe Allard ( whose Saxophone methods I teach, who was the teacher of every major saxophone player in his day including Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, Michael Brecker, and countless others ) , learned circle breathing from Rahsaan Roland Kirk, recorded 2 albums at Grammavision with Al Macdowell (Bass player for 40 years with Ornette Coleman). recodered and learned as much as I could grasp from Don Cherry and Ornette. 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 Guitar Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Keyboard

I do, however, allow diversion and conversation in lessons. If there is a song that may explain the musical idea, we will stop and listen. If a young child wants to relay a story from school they thought of because of our practice, I will stop and listen. I may also speak in depth about musical history, style, or even the psychology of music. I think this combination draws students into the mind of a musician, and gets them to start thinking like one. Read More