Saxophone Lessons in Hillsdale, NJ

Instruments: Piano Voice Cello Saxophone Bass Guitar Double Bass Keyboard

During the first lesson, I have a short discussion with the student to see what their goals are. I also ask what about music interests them. I then ask them to perform anything of their choice to assess their ability level (if applicable). After that, I tell them what immediately needs to be addressed and how this will work with their longterm goal. Then, based on their progress, we set benchmark goals that are adjusted according to their pace. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music

Joey R. is a Brooklyn-based saxophonist and educator from Riverwoods, IL. He found his love for music at the age of nine while hearing John Coltranes monumental solo on Giant Steps. It was in this moment that Joey began his lifelong journey in sound. Joeys years in school were fruitful; he shared the stage with Patti Austin, Shelly Berg, Gloria Estefan, Alan Ferber, Quincy Jones, Brian Lynch, Barry Manilow, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Charlie Watts, and John Williams. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

Robert Gilliam is a skilled musician and passionate teacher with a strong background in classical and jazz music. Holding a Bachelor of Music degree from the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University and currently pursuing a Master of Music at The Juilliard School, Robert has studied under renowned saxophonists Tim Green and Ron Blake. With experience as a performer alongside notable musicians and participation in prestigious festivals, Robert brings a wealth of knowledge and stage experience to his teaching. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I've worked in many different fields around music education, enabling me to have a broad range of experiences and an ability to adapt to any situation. As a music instructor, I've taught 1-on-1 private lessons, and I've also worked at several summer camps including the Florida State University Jazz Camp, where I was the musical assistant to professor Bill Kennedy, and at Long Lake Camp For The Arts, where I served as the head of the music department. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I began my teaching days informally when I was still a student at Fairport High School. Some family friends wanted to learn how to play saxophone, so I began teaching them. Next thing I knew, I had a small-time music studio in my parents' basement! I was teaching saxophone as well as jazz improvisation at that time. I took a break from teaching when I went to college, and began teaching again the summer after I graduated. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Piccolo

Most importantly, we are all here to have fun and enjoy playing music.  I always encourage my students to take risks, have a laugh and ask questions.  I work to build the student's confidence in their playing, ability to practice well, ability to perform in public and ability to be comfortable making mistakes.  We all progress at various rates and progress at any level is an accomplishment that each student should be proud to achieve.  If a student or parent of a student expresses their interested to move forward in a serious capacity, I am more than happy to encourage such movement. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For young beginners on wind instruments, I really focus on getting a good sound out of the instrument first. Then, I have them learn simple songs by ear to strengthen their relationship with the instrument. At the same time, I will teach them how to read music if necessary. I like to use the Rubank or the Sound Innovations band method books to start with. For my piano students, I go over posture and hand position first, in addition to the basics of the keyboard and fingerings for scales. Read More