Saxophone Lessons in Durham, PA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums

I use a variety of methods for my teaching style. I usually have a few method books that I bring to a first lesson, and after meeting the student I will decide on the best one. Once the student has progressed and shows some motivation to be slightly challenged, I'll introduce "popular" music so that the student feels a sense of accomplishment! Music is associated with movies, radio, etc., so to be able to play something recognizable is exciting for the student and the teacher. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Keyboard

While my lessons are catered to each individual student, each follows a general curriculum that I have developed over the years through teaching. Method books are a great structured way to quickly get confident on an instrument, however they don't often encourage listening skills or creativity. This is why I structure my lessons around particular method books like Rubank or Faber while providing additional pieces, exercises, and improvising to supplement the book. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

In my teaching I try to be sensitive to the individual student's needs and desires while stressing the discipline required to reach these goals. The study of music is often a progression of 'ah-ha!' moments where the student experiences an understanding of something they may have struggled with for a period of time. It is the responsibility of a teacher to leaad students to these breakthroughs by presenting a variety of approaches to something a student finds difficult while continuing to motivate them. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone

I currently teach at a Charter School in Newark, NJ. I have taught private saxophone and trumpet lessons since I was in high school. Practicing on a regular schedule is the best way for young students to improve, as well as older students to continue to perfect their technique. My goal is for students to have fun while they learn and while they practice. A lot of times, students are not encouraged to practice because it seems too difficult. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Piccolo Oboe Bassoon English Horn Music Keyboard

I am an energetic woodwind multi-instrumentalist, composer, and educator born and raised in Philadelphia, always open to musical opportunities regardless of the style. Since graduating from Temple University Boyer College of Music in 2021, I've been hard at work leading my solo fusion jazz project, GPS (Gabe Preston Sounds), with our debut album [to the stratosphere] currently available on all streaming platforms. In addition, I am consistently performing with a wide variety of other up-and-coming bands and projects in the area: Mobbluz (a boom-bap hip-hop jazz band), Stella Ruze (Americana folk-rock), You Do You (cosmic funk rock), Hodgepodge (Persian punk-funk rock), Borbs (an avant-garde collective led by Aaron Pond), and more! Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Piccolo

For students who are learning an instrument for band or marching band, I like to integrate their sheet music or method books into the lesson. I use method books with students who are new to their instrument. These materials are then supplemented with scales, solo repertoire, exercises, and technique work as appropriate for each student's interest and skill level. Lessons also consist of listening to previous assignments/repertoire from prior weeks and then offering feedback, answering any questions a student may have, and giving new assignments for the next lesson. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Ukulele

I have played with an extensive list of musical groups in various styles. I have been a part of the Hazleton Liberty Band (which has roots tracing back to the Civil War) and church groups since high school. In college, I was a part of smal woodwind chamber ensembles, concert band, choirs, marching band, big bands, and small jazz ensembles. I continue to stay active in many diverse musical groups. Read More