Saxophone Lessons in Itasca, IL

Instruments: Saxophone

I am a passionate and motivated instructor who loves working with students and sharing my love of music. In 2007, I graduated from Roosevelt University with a Master of Music degree in Saxophone Performance. I don't perform professionally, but I do play in a few community bands throughout the Chicagoland area. In 2004, I graduated from VanderCook College of Music with my Bachelor of Music Education degree. I taught in a few elementary schools, but I like the idea of teaching students on an individual basis. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Recorder Euphonium Tuba Mallet Percussion

I began teaching people how to play instruments when I was in high school, by teaching new students to the band how to play percussion. I then continued teaching once in college by volunteering at local high schools helping new students to the band programs learn brass and percussion. From there I worked with the Rich South high school band director and the Jack Hille middle school band directors. Once I graduated college I taught choir and instrumental music for the catholic school system for two years. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

My teaching style is a mix of fun and discipline. I love to joke around and I feel that humor can help calm the nerves. Humor helps create a bond, and when we bond we show that we care. The student needs to care just as much as the teacher, and when we put these things together we form a great student/teacher relationship. I also know when it's time to be serious and focus on the lesson. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Viola Saxophone

For beginning voice students, I focus on opening and relaxing the throat by way of diaphragm support and healthy, strong breathing. These are the fundamentals of good singing, regardless of the style.We work on these techiniques with both vocal exercises and repertoire.From there, I focus on the student's quality of tone and helping them find their "natural voice." The best singers use their authentic sound, and are not a second-rate imitation of someone else. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Bassoon

It is important to me that each student progress at their own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. I make sure to always acknowledge accomplishments to help fuel the student's desire to progress and make them eager to learn more. By finding out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

For individual study, I use a number of diverse methods, depending on the needs and goals of the student. Beginner students will start with the Hal Leonard Beginner series, focused on mastering the fundamentals. Once a students has mastered the foundational technical scales, arpeggios, articulation; and understanding of time and tempo, we can proceed to augmenting the classical studies with jazz studies. For more intermediate - advanced students, we continue with the Hal Leonard series and augment with the Paul DeVille Universal Method for Saxophone, Klose 25 Daily Exercises, Voxman Selected Studies Books, and transcriptions of Bach (Cello Suites) and Taffanel (Flute Studies). Read More