Saxophone Lessons in Irvington, NY

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For beginning students who are children, I like to start with either the Rubank Elementary Method or Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, as I find these provide a strong foundation in proper technique and sound, and reading music. As we move through this method, I will introduce exercises to help the student further develop a good sound on their instrument. At the same time, we will also begin to play solo and duet repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Bassoon

I have taught private lessons for 9 years, and I can proudly say that the majority of my students were accepted either to middle and high school honor ensembles, or to their colleges of choice. Before I teach any student, I make it my goal to gather as much information as I can about why they wish to study clarinet, their goals, and their long-term dreams. My job is to help those dreams happen, so I keep a database of this information to consistently reference during my time with my students. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

The most important and rewarding aspect of teaching for me is ensuring that my students enjoy playing their instrument and develop a strong passion for their craft. Each student will need to work at their own pace, as everyone learns in a different way. Therefore, I encourage all of my students to set realistic goals and outline a practice routine and regiment that will not only allow them to reach their goals, but exceed them. Read More

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 Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Keyboard

My teaching style is a mixture of a relaxed, conversational feel combined with strong focus. I will constantly insist on stern focus on the material being played- offering big picture ideas as to why a piece is being practiced in a certain way, while asking the student to tell me why such and such a method makes sense. Very small mistakes in the music will be cause to stop and refocus. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Bass Guitar Synthesizer Accordion Ukulele Euphonium French Horn Tuba Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My pedagogy is based on the American jazz tradition and the teachings of Orff and Kodaly. I like to impart a holistic love of music in my students, without boring them with too much history or theory. However, it is my belief that theory and musical literacy will open doors to a greater level of fulfillment and understanding of music as a whole. The materials I use vary from student to student and from instrument to instrument, depending on each student's goals and progress. Read More