Saxophone Lessons in Merrick, NY

Instruments: Piano Voice Cello Saxophone Bass Guitar Double Bass Keyboard

During the first lesson, I have a short discussion with the student to see what their goals are. I also ask what about music interests them. I then ask them to perform anything of their choice to assess their ability level (if applicable). After that, I tell them what immediately needs to be addressed and how this will work with their longterm goal. Then, based on their progress, we set benchmark goals that are adjusted according to their pace. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

For younger students, I find that book based methods are very helpful, and typically I go through the Hal Leonard Essential Elements Series. Once the student has a firm handle of the basics of saxophone (fingerings, embouchure, dynamics, etc.) then I start having them read etude books, and prepare pieces for recitals and other performances or auditions. For adults, I like to teach based on a goal oriented program. For example, If I have a student who is only interested in learning the saxophone for the sake of playing "Yakety Sax" or "The Pink Panther Theme", then I will tailor the lesson plan towards learning that while still working on the fundamentals of Saxophone along the way. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music

While Joey loves to preform, he is passionate about teaching. He has been teaching since 2011. His teaching career began through the non-profit Bravo Waukegan in their Bravo Buddies Summer Camp. He began as the woodwind instructor and through the years worked to become the Artistic Director, managing all aspects of the month long camp. Joey has also served as the Director of Bands for Sistema Ravinia in Lake County and has worked as a teaching artist with the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic and for the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Keyboard

I am a passionate jazz saxophonist, composer, and educator originally from Los Angeles area. In 2018, I graduated with B.A. in Saxophone Performance with an emphasis in Jazz Studies at California State University, Long Beach. I am currently attending Manhattan School of Music for a Masters degree in Jazz Composition. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to perform with CSULB's Concert Jazz Orchestra at the 2017 Elmhurst Jazz festival in Chicago, the 2016-2018 LA Jazz Institute, and even have one of my compositions performed at the 2018 JEN Conference in Dallas Texas. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

For younger and beginning students, I typically start with technique exercises that focus on producing a strong and clean sound on the instrument, and ensure that the base technique is solidified. We will then work through various technique and work books until the student is at a level where they can choose the music that interests them most. For adults and more advanced students, I like to gear the lessons toward what they want to learn, and provide them with the tools they need to reach their goals. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My teaching experience goes all the way back to my senior year of high school teaching not only my students at the Chatham school of rock but also my peers in high school as well as college. My philosophy is simple, music is taught best through experience. Technique books, and etudes have their place for the basics but I believe there is no substitute for putting on a backing track and getting to playing. Read More