Saxophone Lessons in Helen, MD

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My approach to teaching is that the student should be having a good time playing. There are so many different pieces of music out there, students can play a great variety of works at all different skill levels, and still be able to develop their intonation, articulation, and fingering accuracy. I will make sure students are working on pieces challenging enough so that they get something out of playing it, but not so challenging they are discouraged. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet French Horn Oboe Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am a very relaxed and chill person, even as a teacher. I will push you, though. I know that students' successes must be acknowledged and I do not hold back praise for my students. At the same time, I also bring their weaknesses for them to see. I aim to help them come up with plans to overcome their weaknesses and better their playing. At the same time, I look to see how far a student can be pushed. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I intend to see progress in every student! I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at the begging of each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps boost a student hunger to learn more! By trying to find out what inspires the student I can succefully tailor my instruction to the wants and needs of every student. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students who are children, I begin with method books to teach the fundamentals and establish good practice routines. Once a good foundation is established, I like to move into solo and ensemble repertoire to develop lyricism and expression. For adults, I find out what the students are interested in, and direct my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun regardless of ability level. I have rigorous practice routines for all ability and commitment levels. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Music

As mentioned above, my teaching methods are a mixture of discovery and practice that may or may not use formal books and methods. The young student may prefer the use of technology such as Ipads and laptops. Some others may prefer to learn through paper books and methods. I provide the student with the choice of using many electronic tools for improving his learning. Some students prefer a more relaxed, free way of learning. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bassoon

I have at my disposal a variety of method books and exercises that I use with my students, depending on their age, level of achievement, and particular needs. I tend to use Accent on Achievement, the Breeze-Easy Methods, and the Belwin/Alfred Student Instrumental Course for young and developing players. As the student advances, I use the Rubank Advanced Method Volume I, then transfer to method books specific to the particular instrument being studied. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Students can expect to work from a variety of method books to study instrumental techniques, and music theory. For beginning students I prefer Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, but also work with any method book a student uses in their band class. Students will also work from the Peters/Yoder Master Theory Series. We will also incorporate a students "favorite" music to help develop listening skills and gain a level of comfort and familiarity with improvisation from the very beginning of their lessons with me. Read More