Saxophone Lessons in Deerfield, OH

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning students who are children, I typically teach the book that they use in band class. If they/the parents would prefer a specific book or are not in band, I typically use Standard of Excellence, the red book and then progress to the blue book. Once the student understands the fundamentals and has progressed, I then begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance.  For adults, I learn of what the student is interested in and then I guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter the ability. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My style of lesson is like water.. No two students are alike. I must first test a beginner to see if they're tone deaf.. An advanced student is tested for any limitations or handicaps. Any good coach would study the student for any weakness, and formulate a viable plan to bridge the gap again to take them further faster.. Example: I have an 11 year old student that reads the pink panther very well, but has no clue what key he's in, or how to transpose etc. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My approaches change depending on a students age, experience, and personality. Every student is unique and has their own musical language to develop and it is my philosophy that unique students require unique approaches. All of that being said, I utilize lesson time as efficiently as possible to give students the tools they need to progress in their own solo practice. One of my teachers once said "I am only your teacher for an hour each week, that means for 167 hours a week you are your own teacher." This adage shaped my approach to lessons so that I can give students the ability to practice as effectively as possible. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

For most students, I use the Rubank Method books as a foundation for basic fundamentals of the instrument. I use Jamey Aebersold's books as a foundation for jazz and popular music when students are ready. After that, I like giving my students individual work that is tailored to their needs like solos, jazz tunes, and more. I also challenge my students to take control of their learning by being resourceful. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Organ Piccolo

I use the Alfred Piano series for most of my piano students. Woodwind students will use either Rubank or Hal Leonard series of books. During the first lesson, I will clarify the student's goals and needs and choose a book accordingly. I also add finger warm-ups and breathing exercises. Students are encouraged to pick a song from their own choosing to learn as a "fun-song". I try to cover these three things in every lesson, however I am flexible to meet the goals of my students. My professional motto is that I will do "Whatever it takes" for my students to succeed. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My experience starts when I was attending college. I started working at a private school in the great Cleveland area teaching both clarinet and saxophone. I stayed at that school for the next 15 years practicing my craft of teaching. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent basis is one of the fundamentals I try to teach my young students. My goal for my students is they not only learn the instrument in lessons is that they also have a good time while practicing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Euphonium French Horn Tuba Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Bassoon

I began teaching privately as a high school student, working with begnning students at the middle school. I have taught privately in my home and in students' homes since graduating from college. Regular practice is very important and something I emphasize with my students. I like to include a mixture of classical and modern music in my lessons, so that students enjoy what they are learning and playing. If a student does not enjoy their time playing their instrument, they will not want to put the practice in and lessons will become a point of argument.  Read More