Saxophone Lessons in Keyport, WA

Instruments: Saxophone

The first few students I ever had were actually swimmers! My first teaching experience came as a swim instructor for people of all ages at a local club. Because of my work there I was able to convert a small number of those kids into saxophone students as well and the teaching itch began! For the most part these students were family friends, and very much beginners so my strategies revolved around basic practice routines, some tone development work and helping with parts for school band or the like. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

I first started teaching while I was in high school. It all began when I taught at a music summer camp called Camp Winthers. My main responsibilities in regards to teaching were leading instrument sectionals, and giving advice one on one. This would continue summer after summer until I reached college. In the beginning of my time in higher education, most of my lessons taught were to my peers, focused mostly on music theory and ear training. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My methods are not unusual, although I am a bit. Based on the the students experience and ability, or lack thereof, I'll make suggestions about what music to get. Often they already have music that will work, to which I will add developemental studies of various sorts. For example, I like Bartok's Mikrocosmos which he wrote to teach is nine year old son to play piano. Many things can be learned with no book at all, but reading music is also important. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Shakuhachi Conga

I have been an educator and performer in the Seattle area for over 20 years I enjoy working with beginners as well as more advanced students.I am a very patient teacher who both likes to challenge students but puts a priority on having fun and loving music.I also have been performing in the Northwest for over 30 years.I have been a member and co-founder of jazz,blues,reggae,experimental,and world music bands.I have performed at many venues and festivals around the Northwest including: Earshot jazz festival,Bumbershoot, Folklife, New Works for Saxophone, and many others. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Keyboard

It all depends on the areas of music the student would like to focus on. No matter if it's music theory, composition, or performance, my main idea is to intricately learn the about the music that interests you, learn how to apply it on your instrument, and then use your creativity to create something new. Of course, I make sure that all the bases are covered such as basic sight-reading and transcription skills, but the emphasis is on learning how to channel your imagination so that you can connect your instrument with your inner-ear.  Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

I first find out how the students learns best. Knowing if somebody is hands on, likes to listen, needs to watch, be shown etc. can impact the experience and quality of the lesson. Using analogies is something that has really helped me in my practicing so I enjoy passing that on. Setting realistic short term and long term goals are absolutely essential to progression, along with finding an inspiration. I have always found a player who inspired me and would figure out what they were doing to sound the way they sound. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

My teaching method is tailored to the desired goal of the student. I commonly employ classical fundamentals, which provide the student with tools needed to play the instrument. These fundamentals include: long-tones (for tone production), scales (for technique), overtone series (for the low/high range of the instrument) and reading music. From here, each lesson is modified to the particular student's goals, whether that is improvisation, playing jazz, performing classical literature, exploring experimental music, etc. Read More