Saxophone Lessons in Los Alamitos, CA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Fiddle French Horn Piccolo Oboe

I started teaching violin about 15 years ago. A few years later I started teaching viola and cello. When I got to CSULB I started learning all the band instruments. I did some coaching for several years at middle schools and high schools. After that I bought a lot a wind instruments and started to teach wind instruments privately. Playing and teaching each instrument is like entering a different world. Each instrument is special in its own way. 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: Saxophone Flute

With beginners, I focus on developing sound fundamentals. It's important to avoid any bad habits and beginning students are lucky in that they have the opportunity to establish proper technique from the very start. As students progress, I use books such as the Universal Method and Rubanks Duets to learn to read notes and understand rhythms. Duets are an amazing tool as they hold students responsible for their individual part, while still functioning as a supportive and interactive activity. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I like to play audio/recordings for the students when possible, so that the student has an idea of the style, or the piece that we are studying.  This gives them something to reference to, but also gives them an aural aspect in their playing/practice habits. I also model for them constantly, so that they get more visual and aural reinforcement.  I sometimes give them short music concept/vocabulary assignments, such as learning the names of the notes on the staff, counting rhythms, meters, etc; all having to do with music theory and musical concepts that can be directly applied to their practical aspect of playing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

I like to teach students in a way that encourages them to think for themselves and learn how to correct their own mistakes. I think it is important for students to develop a solid practice routine, which they can use for years to come. I like inspiring students by going beyond learning their instrument to helping them understand the history of their instrument and the music they are learning and the role/importance of music to them. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

First, I will ask my student what they want to do today. We are all subject to feeling differently about certain subjects every day and for example, might feel more inclined to learn scales one day and then maybe learn about the history of Jazz music another day, so it's my job to cater to those desires and let the student dictate the path our lessons take. I'm solely here for the student and not any self interest. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Saxophone Flute Clarinet Oboe English Horn Acoustic Guitar

I use a wide variety of methods depending on the student's current ability level, musical preferences, and goals. I'm also willing to work with a method or book that a student is currently using. Generally, my students have a varying ratio of technique/scale study to work on the foundations, an etude/short piece study to help connect musical ideas and teach expression, and a solo piece that is prepared over a long period of time, most likely for a future recital. Read More