Saxophone Lessons in Mercer Island, WA

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I'm a gentle person who believes in exposing my students to the best music, and bringing out of them the music they have within. The idea is to ease their frustrations, not add to them. As long as the student actually tries, I feel confident they will enjoy the wxperience and learn a great deal. Music is one of life's greaat pleasures and worth every bit of the effort required to do it well. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

Tracy Knoop, Kareem Kandi, Steve Treseler, Dr. Bob Miller as well as NYC based saxophonist Braxton Cook. I am fortunate enough to have been able to play on live radio for a total of 5x as a student at PLU with the Faculty Jazz group and alongside my band 322 which is still going strong. Along with playing in 322, I do work with some producers diving into more genres that incorporate jazz such as some lofi hip-hop and funk. 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: 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 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

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: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Euphonium French Horn Tuba

I have come to learn that all students learn in their own unique way and at their own pace. As a teacher, it is my responsibility to identify these unique traits, encourage their strengths and improve their weaknesses. I also make sure they are learning what they want to learn, but more importantly, teach them what they need to learn to continuously excel musically. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Read More