Saxophone Lessons in Duarte, CA

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I like my students to bring a small notebook, so that they may write their homework down, and any practice assignments.  I expect my students to keep a practice log of how much time they practice per week, in between lessons.  I always insist that setting goals and expectations for them, is very important, as well as keeping track of whether they themselves are staying on task.  I try and incorporate different ways of practicing or playing music, so that even practicing turns into being fun and exciting and doesn't feel like a chore.  Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet French Horn Piccolo Oboe

My approach to learning an instruments is to have the students learn to play by ear first before they can start learning to read music. I find that most students are able to progress quickly because it frees them to focus on the playing the instruments rather than reading notes. I consider reading music like different subject that they learn later. Learning music is like learning to speak. First we learn to talk and then we learn to read and write. 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: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For younger beginning students, I typically use a method book, such as Accent on Achievement or something similar. For older beginners, I typically use the Rubank beginner's book. With this book, the student learns the fundamentals for their instrument. Once the student demonstrates an understanding of this, we will move on to sheet music. For more advanced students, we will typically use an etude book like Klose to explore the technical aspects of musical performance (such as technique development, phrasing, dynamics, etc.). Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

Eric Letta is saxophonist, clarinetist, composer, recording artist, and teacher. His roots are deeply grounded in the traditions of jazz, but his exciting and creative style incorporates all genres, such as r&b, funk, and modern bop. A native of Akron, Ohio, he was a member of the Ohio All-State Jazz Ensemble before earning a degree from Kent State University. He spent the first ten years of his musical career playing in jazz and show bands around the Midwest. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Functional Piano: This is a GREAT method of learning to play the piano without having to take years of formal piano lessons. If you just want to play your favorite melodies and harmonies then " functional piano." is for you. This is an EXCELLENT approach for eitherAdults/ Laymen/novie vocalist/songwrithers/instrumentalist who either want to explore and or create new harmonies and melodies. Topics include 1) Basic chord identification by sound. 2) Understanding chord symbols. 3) How to intrepret a lead sheet. 4) Basic diatonic concepts. 5) Modification of a chord progression. 6) Exchanging chords of similar functions. 7) Voice leading techniques. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I can provide solid foundations for new musicians and detail-oriented polishing for advanced players. For those beginning an instrument with me, I draw from Rubank or Essential Elements methods and customize my lesson plan based on the needs and interests of the student. For students pursuing jazz, I use The Goldman Method, which provides a systematic and easy to follow program that quickly produces results. Read More