Saxophone Lessons in Herndon, VA

Instruments: Saxophone

For beginner students I usually start off with the Hal Leonard Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep my lessons engaging and fun, no matter The ability level ! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet Music

Classes for beginners will focus on tone quality, articulation, rhythm, reading music, and playing in time. Students will learn breathing and fingering techniques as well as structured routines for practicing at home. Intermediate players will begin by mastering the 12 major scales and arpeggios in straight and swing patterns. Basic 12-bar blues structure will be introduced and students will learn to improvise using the blues and pentatonic scales. Students will begin to develop an appreciation for different styles of jazz through listening and ear training. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder

I am passionate about teaching and perfoming music. I have been playing the clarinet for over 14 years, saxophone for 6 and all others for 4 years. During my time in college, I participated in numerous ensmbles that allowed me to play all of the insturments I teach. I want to help my students get as much joy and appreciation of music that I do. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

Progression is my primary goal for each student. When my students grow, I grow. It is imperitive that each student remembers that growth is an individualized thing. I first encourage my students to set goals. Knowing what my student has an interest in doing/becoming will help me understand better how to pace the lessons. I always encourage consistent practice and acknowledging each student's accomplishment helps drive the student's desire to want to progress. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Music Keyboard

My methods are different for every student, but I always start with fundamentals. This includes scales, exercises to improve sound and intonation, reading, writing, improvisation, and most importantly listening. Depending on the path the student choses, some areas will be focused on more than others. I will often introduce more advanced concepts early if the student displays interest in them. I am not the kind of instructor who will say "play your etudes first and then we can talk about improvisation." I almost quit shortly after I started music because I had an instructor with that outlook. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

It is very important for the music instructor to learn the nature and characteristics of his/her students. It is crucial that the teacher can make adjustments to teach according to the nature of their students, some students can learn really fast and may have a desire to be pushed harder, but many students are either normal or may require a longer time to digest the material. I encourage students to practice in order to help their progress and I always model for students in the lesson. Read More