Saxophone Lessons in Fairmont, CA

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

During a lesson I tend to organize the lesson so that there are three or four parts. Usually I begin with long tones then we move to articulation. Then I usually incorporate a few small musical studies that cater to style and performance type. During this time it is important for the student to pay attention to the timbre of their performance. Next I cater to the students ability to create their own character with a solo. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

I like to teach students in a way that encourages them to think for themselves and learn how to correct their own mistakes. I think it is important for students to develop a solid practice routine, which they can use for years to come. I like inspiring students by going beyond learning their instrument to helping them understand the history of their instrument and the music they are learning and the role/importance of music to them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Drums Bass Guitar Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

At the heart of my teaching style is a balance between understanding concepts, developing technique, and applying everything in a practical, musical way. Technique and theory are essential, but they should serve expression not limit it. What we learn should ultimately help us communicate and create freely. For example, while we might spend time practicing the C major scale on the piano to understand its structure and build familiarity, the next step is bringing it to life. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Synthesizer Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My style is to be open about the types of music my students can learn rather than forcing Mozart on them from day one. I create a relaxed environment without stress and complicated assignments that can feel like schoolwork. Music should be enjoyable for everyone involved. As a composer and arranger, I find it simple to take an established song and create an easier version for my student to learn. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I started teaching saxophone performance in 2010 for private students who were looking to improve their skills on the instrument. Starting from my college years, I've been teaching many students performance, arrangement, composition, ear training and harmony. I always put my best effort with every single one of my student. Being a positive and involved teacher helps them feel motivated and makes the learning process much easier. I try to teach as much as I can during my lesson hours but I can easily adjust my pace to make sure the students has a total understanding of the topic. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Harp Accordion Harmonica Lap Steel Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Lute Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Shakuhachi Oboe Bassoon English Horn Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Most recently Derek was the lead trombonist of the 2018 Disneyland All-American College Band. He has recently performed with Wayne Bergeron, Gordon Goodwin, Dave Holland, Randy Brecker, Dave Liebman, Jimmy Heath, Shaun Martin, Christian Jacob, John Beasley, Troy Roberts, Frank Greene, Brian Lynch, Jeff Jarvis, Steve Houghton, Jiggs Whigham, Sal Lozano, and John Clayton. Derek has had recent performances at Dizzys Club Coca-Cola, the Smithsonian Institute, and the New World Symphony. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums

A student will never practice if they're not having fun, and they won't have fun if they're being pushed harder than they want to be pushed. Therefore, when I start with a student, I always ask how much they want to improve and how quickly, how important music is to them, and how much time they're willing to invest daily. We continue on the student's pace, and find the most efficient and fun way to get the student's goals. Read More