Saxophone Lessons in Fox Run, PA

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 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: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music Keyboard

As I have taught many students on many different instruments, my focus has been on providing students with a firm foundation, including proper posture, breathing, embouchure, technique, and pitch/rhythm literacy. I have found great success in using the Essential Elements method books, and eventually move on to intermediate and advanced methods, focusing on etudes, scale studies, and solo repertoire. Beyond a traditionally classical approach, I believe strongly in listening to my students to realize what they desire to learn. 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

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: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Ukulele Euphonium French Horn Music

For young students or beginners, I start with a lesson book such as Essential Elements or Accent on Achievement. Each of these methods series have multiple books that the student can progress through. Once they have reached a certain level of understanding, I will sprinkle in songs that they know and enjoy, such as Disney songs, pop songs, etc. For high school students, I start with famous repertoire for their instrument or more advanced pieces they are interested in. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

If I were to teach any adults (which I have not had the opportunity to do yet!), I think I would still start with Corley's book but then after that investigate what kinds of music they're hoping to play and touch on those things as well as work on advancing technique. I hope, too, that all of my students have an ensemble to play in whether they're homeschooled, attend a school, or are an adult learner. Read More