Saxophone Lessons in Elizabeth Park Valley, OH

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Organ Piccolo

Empowering my students is my first priority. They will be able to perform a song from the first lesson. I want them to enjoy learning and look forward to their lesson every week. I want them to feel confident about their musical ability and about themselves. My basic structure is a warm-up, review of previously assigned material, introduction of new material, and finishing the lesson with a student chosen song. Read More

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: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Euphonium French Horn

As I've said above, my teaching is curtailed to the individual needs of my students. I stress development as a complete musician, and that often includes breaking away from technique to discuss other ideas like music theory, ear training, etc. Most importantly, I can explain difficult concepts in many ways. I am a degreed educator, having studied various learning styles and philosophies. I incorporate techniques from Kodaly, Orff, Suzuki, Dalcroze, Alexander--- each student has different needs. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Taught and performed for for 30 years... But seeing and hearing is believing, I've posted a video of me playing ajazz demonstration of a Hubert Laws composition.. This was part of my therapy after open heart surgery and a mini stroke.. Some doctors believe as a musician the use of both sides of my brain may have contributed to a speedy recovery..I believe my 7th cranial nerve damage, completely paralyzing the left side of my face, was healed by the Grace of God, first, and the gift He gave me called Music. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet

To me, it is most important that a student feels successful in what they have accomplished each lesson. Every student progresses at their own rate and it's important to give students attainable short-term goals in the service of long-term achievements. It is also important to know what drives each student and understand why they want to take private lessons. This will give the student a degree of inspiration which us as teachers can use to help them stay focused and interested in continuing with their studies. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

For beginning students who are younger, I would start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. There is a wealth of lessons to help progress the student with fundamentals and gradually moving at a pace that is right for them. Once they have gained the confidence to move on, there is also a second book that follows. For older students, I want to know what you are interested in and can guide the instruction to keep them fun and you engaged no matter the ability level. 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