Saxophone Lessons in Granada Hills, CA

Instruments: Saxophone

The best way of teaching is the one that makes your student develop a honest passion for music. While there's a core of exercises and practice routines that I teach to everyone, I have great respect for the peculiar interests of the single students and I introduce studies and repertoire that are close to their musical tastes and sensibility so that they'll feel accomplished and rewarded by realizing how their technical studies is helping them to play the music they love. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I like to play audio/recordings for the students when possible, so that the student has an idea of the style, or the piece that we are studying.  This gives them something to reference to, but also gives them an aural aspect in their playing/practice habits. I also model for them constantly, so that they get more visual and aural reinforcement.  I sometimes give them short music concept/vocabulary assignments, such as learning the names of the notes on the staff, counting rhythms, meters, etc; all having to do with music theory and musical concepts that can be directly applied to their practical aspect of playing. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

With beginners, I focus on developing sound fundamentals. It's important to avoid any bad habits and beginning students are lucky in that they have the opportunity to establish proper technique from the very start. As students progress, I use books such as the Universal Method and Rubanks Duets to learn to read notes and understand rhythms. Duets are an amazing tool as they hold students responsible for their individual part, while still functioning as a supportive and interactive activity. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Saxophone Flute Clarinet Oboe English Horn Acoustic Guitar

I earned a BM degree in Music Therapy with specialized studies in Oboe Performance at Florida State University in 2014 and an MFA in Instrumental Arts from California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) in 2017. My principal teachers have included Dr. Eric Ohlsson and Dr. Allan Vogel. In addition, I've studied English horn with Carolyn Hove, baroque oboe with Gonzalo Ruiz, jazz improvisation with Paul Novros, free improvisation with Vinny Golia, and North Indian music/improvisation with Ashish Khan. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Euphonium Oboe Bassoon

I try to have as much fun as possible while still maintaining a high expectiation of performance.  I am, by trade and training, a comedian, so jokes and laughter abound. Most of my students might say I'm not as funny as I think I am, but we still have fun! I am, however a stickler for learning the basics of music theory and correct use of vocabulary. Students won't move on to the next level until I know they have a firm grasp of prior concepts. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music Keyboard

My work extends beyond the stage, as I've had the privilege of recording and composing for acclaimed series like HBO's "Hacks" and Netflix's "Insiders." Collaborating with industry veterans such as Rob Lewis, known for his work with artists like Christina Aguilera, Fifth Harmony, and the Backstreet Boys, has been an inspiring part of my journey. Additionally, I've had the incredible opportunity to perform as a soloist with the Madrid Philharmonic Orchestra, presenting my composition "Espirales" and my piece "Murmullos," both of which received awards and were showcased at the prestigious Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando in Madrid, thanks to the support of the Fundacin Sax Ensemble. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

My teaching approch is to offer a fully personalized course for each individual students, encouraging them to explore the instrument while understanding solid technical basis. My course is usually divided in 3 phases: 1 - Understanding the instrument (breathing, embochure, basic fingering) 2- Practice routine, scales and arpeggios, developing good instrumental tecnique using classical books. 3- Jazz and instrumental Improvisation. Read More