Saxophone Lessons in Glenwood Landing, NY

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I like to make music learning a self-engaged process. Students will keep track of their assignments, make some of the decisions about what music to play, and be expected to practice a minimum of 5 or 6 days per week. Students are sometimes reluctant to have discipline at first, but once they realize that they are making fast progress and overcoming musical challenges, they tend to have a great time. I have had parents of middle schoolers tell me that the structure music lessons have brought to their students' lives has made a huge difference in other areas. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Viola Saxophone Drums Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is by assigning studies and etudes to develop fundamentals while simultaneously incorporating the learnt fundamentals into “real-time”, on the job training! I have learned all of my most valuable lessons while performing and being put on the spot; I will teach my students how to be prepared for any situation, not only in regard to music but also in relation to life, by having a calm and steady approach to the task at hand! Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I had a very unique opportunity to be mentored by the legendary drummer/bandleader/NEA Jazz Master Chico Hamilton. I spent a lot of time with him on and off the stage. I was observing and loving all of these moments on tour and in the studio. I learned so many things from him, most importantly what it means to be a teacher. In order to teach, one should never stop learning. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone

For beginning students, I start with Accent on Achievement, book one. Once the student has gotten a grasp of the fundamentals, I then introduce solo repertoire that is appropriate for the student. I will always reference the method book if students are having trouble with a certain technique. For beginning jazz students, I start with the Greg Fishman Jazz books. Once students have mastered this book, I then switch to the omnibook and real book and allow students to learn and try to improvise a solo. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

On the basis of one's skill and prior experience, I will devise a plan starting with ideas of fundamental musical ideas (scales, arpeggios, key signatures, reading music) all the way to more advanced concepts of harmony and placement. Having the opportunity to hear a student's wishes will help me align myself with their goals and intentions musically which will inform my concepts. While there is an expectation that the student gives assistance in their difficulties to decide what is best for them, there also will be a thorough diagnosis of skills and weaknesses, for a better learning experience. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Keyboard

My technique for teaching students vary depending on the student and their competency. If the student is a beginner I like to start them with the basics of theory and rhythm by explaining the circle of 5ths, major scales, minor scales, augmented, and diminished scales. Then once the student grasps the very basic concepts of music theory I then either have them bring in a song the would like to play or I will give them variations of Ferling Etudes or Bach Etudes to establish a solid foundation in music theory. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

For younger students, I find that book based methods are very helpful, and typically I go through the Hal Leonard Essential Elements Series. Once the student has a firm handle of the basics of saxophone (fingerings, embouchure, dynamics, etc.) then I start having them read etude books, and prepare pieces for recitals and other performances or auditions. For adults, I like to teach based on a goal oriented program. For example, If I have a student who is only interested in learning the saxophone for the sake of playing "Yakety Sax" or "The Pink Panther Theme", then I will tailor the lesson plan towards learning that while still working on the fundamentals of Saxophone along the way. Read More