Saxophone Lessons in La Mirada, CA

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Ever since I was a kid, I had a passion for mentoring and tutoring. Nothing makes me feel as fulfilled as a long day of teaching, having fun with my students and helping them make progress both in their musical studies and development as people. As a performer, my career encompasses anything from classical and jazz concerts to musical theater productions and studio recording sessions. I am constantly looking for new ways to contribute to my craft and find new outlets for performing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Harp Accordion Harmonica Lap Steel Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Lute Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Shakuhachi Oboe Bassoon English Horn Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Hello and thank you for having an interest in my teaching profile! My name is Derek, and I am a 24-year-old musician originally from Indiana. I am a passionate and motivated instructor and look forward to meeting you and sharing my love of music with you. I have been teaching students of all ages for 10 years now. If it would interest you, please take a minute to read my biography to find out more about me! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Bass Guitar Music Keyboard

I believe in using your ears as the most important tool. Which means I believe in playing music rather than reading it. Growing up playing music by ear. I prefer this way of teaching and only use sheet music as an assistant to help the student get to a certain goal. As a teacher I can help you grow your abilities on your instrument. Help you achieve the cool warm sound you want from the saxophone. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

As stated in my bio my teaching experience especially given my age is extremely extensive. I started teaching saxophone at the age of 14 as a volunteer in the Songcatchers program in New Rochelle, a service that provided free private lessons to children who couldn't afford them. That progressed to teaching privately and in small groups as an upperclassman in high school for my band teacher and for extra money on the side. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

As an instructor at an after-school music academy, I coached jazz ensembles ranging in size from big band to combo and taught private saxophone lessons. From teaching students of most age levels, I have learned several approaches to teaching jazz music and improvisation. Connecting with each student in a way they understand and find enjoyable almost always leads to quicker and more satisfying results for the student. I am currently a teaching artist for the Herbie Hancock Institute through UCLA. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Synthesizer Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I decided to offer piano and general music lessons while I was attending college. It turned out to be very fun and rewarding to see my students begin to understand and apply the concepts I taught them. Creating my own teaching style and curriculum was difficult, but learning from my peers was a great experience and very helpful. I also assisted in my Studio Ensemble class to teach arrangers and composers the general rules of writing and advanced theory. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Piccolo Music

My teaching approach is patient, flexible, and student-centered. I meet each student where they are, tailoring lessons to fit their individual needs, goals, and learning styles. Whether a student is preparing for auditions, learning a new instrument, or playing just for fun, we work together to set meaningful goals and achieve them step by step. I strive to make every lesson fun, engaging, and encouragingso students stay motivated, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love and appreciation of music. Read More