Saxophone Lessons in Marysville, WA

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

For beginners, whilst working with a Standard of Excellence book, it's important to take the time to work on things on a smaller level throughout. Although working through the books and going onto the next level is the goal, I find it imperative ensure that the techniques are being fully utilized along the way. For example, we don't want to just read the notes and play along, we want to make sure that articulations, tone, breathing techniques and fingering is also being focused on. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I like to start by asking about a student about their prior experience (if any), interests and goals on their instrument. With my students, I generally start by tackling basics like healthy breathing and posture, producing good tone, note-reading, and rhythm. Depending on students interests, we may then gradually incorporate more advanced techniques such as playing by ear, learning longer, more complex classical or jazz pieces, music theory, and improvisation. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

If the student has no experience with music or the instrument, I will start them off with the very basics, such as: how to properly put together/take apart your instrument, proper care for the instrument, how to form a supportive and correct embouchure. This will also be accompanied by multiple books, which I usually recommend getting Essential Elements 2000 for complete beginners . We then have a foundation we can build on. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Keyboard

The goal, then, is to make sure that they visualize and know exactly what they are going to play before they start playing – just like a good public speaker who uses zero filler words, makes direct eye contact, and speaks with conviction. One achieves that deliberate execution by being aware and practicing those subtleties, so my job as a teacher is to help them learn how to attain that focus. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

I teach not only how to play the chosen instrument, but also about its history and its role across musical styles. Music is fun, and while hard work and practice are important and essential, so is enjoyment of music and enjoyment of one's instrument. I also strive to include music related field trips such as to opera dress rehearsals, to music related sites such as the EMP or to other local performances. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

For my younger students I usually start with major and minor scales tied in with simple to challenging etudes. I do not have a specific book that I work out of, though if the student has one that they work out of I would be happy to accommodate. For adults I usually have the same approach, but we will focus more on a specific genre or style that they may want to emulate. 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