Saxophone Lessons in Jeffersonton, VA

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My first experience as a teacher came as a sophomore and junior in high school. I was involved with a program where high school students would work with elementary school band students once a week, and help them work on their band program music and develop their musicality. I found the experience to be extremely rewarding, and have maintained that interest in teaching. I spent time in college working as a music theory tutor for beginning music students, and in graduate school worked to develop and implement lesson plans for beginning clarinetists. 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 Clarinet

For beginning elementary and middle school students I usually use Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once my student has a working knowledge of the fundamentals, I introduce music that will build confidence and keep the student's interest. Although I am using a method book, it is just a guide. Along the way, I may supplement the book with other exercises to work on specific techniques. For adults, I first assess my student's skill level, and we talk about goals and a realistic practice schedule. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I am an experienced woodwind teacher and in the past seven years I have helped many students with their school music, audition materials, and/or music for pure enjoyment. I hold both my bachelor and Master's degree in music education and I've had many years of band teaching experience. I have been the member of several local symphonic band and pit orchestra of Long Island, NY region until 2011. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Music

Some students prefer a more relaxed, free way of learning. Some demand a more disciplined, focused method of teaching and learning. After assessing the student's profile I can better suggest a track and work with the student to achieve his/her goals. My lessons are a balance of music theory, ear training, transcription, and free playing. Each student is unique in its learning. I help them to identify their needs to progress in their learning and give them the needed tools to keep growing and enjoying music. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Piccolo Latin Percussion

For beginning students I like to start with the same book I learned; Essential elements by Hal Leonard. This book comes with a play along that serves as stimuli to the young ear. A compliment and more flute oriented book is Flute 101-103 Which ranges from beginners to medium-advanced students. During this period I will add repertoire appropriate to the level of the student and according to national standards like NISMA and All State. 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