Saxophone Lessons in Des Plaines, IL

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Clarinet

Every student is unique in their ability level, dedication to the instrument/craft, et. al; therefore, I cannot expect that every student will be the next Larry Combs. I do, however, expect that every student take their responsibility for practicing each week, coming prepared to lessons, and being a good student. In lessons, I am kind and personable as anyone should be, but I like to make clear my expectations right from the beginning. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I have a bachelor's degree in saxophone performance from Nazareth College and a master's degree in jazz performance from DePaul University. In pursuit of my degrees, I performed classical repertoire in solo recitals while also performing with jazz ensembles, wind ensembles, and saxophone ensembles. Additionally, I worked with various jazz and rock groups outside of school. I perform frequently throughout Chicagoland with various ensembles and have appeared at several of Chicago's top venues for jazz and improvised music. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I began teaching private students many years ago when I was in college. I quickly realized that teaching was extremely fulfilling, in a completely different way than performing. With teaching I am able to give back to the community and help to inspire students in the way I was inspired as a child. Pursuing music completely changed the direction of my life, and I hope to share that experience with others. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My teaching experience started while I was in high school. By my senior year, my band director gave me opportunities to lead the band by directing and running sectionals. During this time, I also worked with students one on one as needed. As I went on to college, the same trends followed. My undergraduate school was smaller than most and I was able to step in as a role model almost immediately. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Recorder Euphonium Tuba Mallet Percussion

I began teaching people how to play instruments when I was in high school, by teaching new students to the band how to play percussion. I then continued teaching once in college by volunteering at local high schools helping new students to the band programs learn brass and percussion. From there I worked with the Rich South high school band director and the Jack Hille middle school band directors. Once I graduated college I taught choir and instrumental music for the catholic school system for two years. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Harp

Understanding that every student has unique experiences, interests, strengths and weaknesses, I always work to ensure that lessons are to the benefit of the student. Instead of thinking of my role as a director who prescribes a set path, I like to think of private lessons as an opportunity for partnership, where I play the role of facilitator. To do so, I regularly check-in with students to build a lesson structure that works for them. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

The most important part of my job as an instructor is listening - to how the student plays, why they play, and what they hope to accomplish. Each student is different - do you want to play just for fun? Advance in your school band? Audition for college entrance? Prepare for a solo recital? Whatever your goals are, I will provide you with the guidance to fulfill them - the practicing is up to you! Read More