Saxophone Lessons in Ford City, PA

Instruments: Saxophone

I believe in meeting a student where they are. Stuffy method books and strict teaching regiments are not going to give the same results from each student. Finding music students like to play is a better way to get them excited about playing and will become an entryway into learning the more mundane parts of playing the instrument. After all, the musical concepts I want my students to learn can be found in all kinds of music. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning and intermediate clarinet and saxophone students I like using the Yamaha Advantage books or the Belwin Series. I like to use these lesson books and supplement with solo and duet material. I always encourage my students to bring in material they'd like to work on, from school band music to popular tunes they are intereseted in learning. I think it is important for all aspiring musicians to collaborate with others and make sure to play along with students in our lessons. I ask my students to plan their practice time each week, as I know how busy we all are! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I have been playing and gigging jazz music since I was right around 11. I work to make the saxophone into a multi-dimensional extension of myself. I was exposed to bands like Circa Survive and Lydia around the same time I was getting into monster players like Chris Potter, Kenny Garrett, and Chick Corea. My first love is pop music, so folks like Max Martin, Justin Timberlake and Panic! at the Disco are direct influences. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

I believe it is important for any teacher to be patient and compassionate. Every student is different in their abilities and learning processes. So I remain flexible in trying new ways to keep students engaged and not be distracted if certain techniques become difficult. Unlike a course where you receive a grade, lessons are like coaching sessions. Similar to coaching sports, consistent workouts and drills help build the foundation to perform. Read More

Instruments: Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Euphonium Tuba

I am a driven player who believes ardently in the practice of fundamentals and the accuracy of intonation. I auditioned for the U.S Army Band in 2004 and spent 10 years traveling with the group. During this time, I played venues all over the world, including Japan, Korea, Germany, and Iraq among others, and learned to play many different styles of music. Since then, I have been studying with several esteemed musicians from the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and I hope to impart the lessons I have learned upon my students. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Saxophone

For beginner students, I like to start with general music understanding before jumping into the specifics. I will make sure the students can read and understand music so that when we start with harder materials it will be easier and more fun. I will make sure that the students have songs and music books that they will enjoy learning and performing. I will leave it up to the students if they wish to do a recital. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

Students have the most fun and learn the most when they are doing what they would like to do. This doesn't mean that the fundamentals aren't important but when it comes to the pieces and etudes we study the student will play what they would like to play. If I pick a piece that the student simply doesn't like then I will work with them to figure out what piece is suitable for them and help them get the most enjoyment from it. Read More