Saxophone Lessons in Mount Rainier, MD

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder

I believe that developing a methodical way of practicing and thinking about music reading, tone production, and creating rhythm is the key to unlocking the ability of students to enjoy the music they produce. Therefore, my teaching style is methodical in that I try to be consistent with expectations for prepared material and activities for each lesson, while also being flexible to the unique needs of individual students. I also like to play with my students-- duets are a great way for students who are not in school ensemble to get a taste of what music is about, creating something beautiful with other people! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I knew I was going to become a music teacher at the age of ten, so I absolutely understand how much of an impact teachers have on students from a young age. I have been teaching larger ensembles for most of my college years, but have had private students around my school schedule for many years. Finding what motivates the student is key. If the student isn't motivated or doesn't care, then I need to change something! Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

It is very important for the music instructor to learn the nature and characteristics of his/her students. It is crucial that the teacher can make adjustments to teach according to the nature of their students, some students can learn really fast and may have a desire to be pushed harder, but many students are either normal or may require a longer time to digest the material. I encourage students to practice in order to help their progress and I always model for students in the lesson. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I am a recent VCUarts Music graduate. My concentration was jazz saxophone. I have been playing saxophone for over 20 years, but the last four years have been intense, as I was working diligently to complete my music degree. I have been a member of several small jazz ensembles since 2019, and I also served as lead tenor saxophonist in VCU's Jazz Orchestra I for two years. My biggest takeaway from VCU is that I have a genuine love for music, and I am committed to spending the rest of my life learning about it. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My approach to teaching is that the student should be having a good time playing. There are so many different pieces of music out there, students can play a great variety of works at all different skill levels, and still be able to develop their intonation, articulation, and fingering accuracy. I will make sure students are working on pieces challenging enough so that they get something out of playing it, but not so challenging they are discouraged. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Clarinet Recorder

For my beginner students who are either children or adults, I will typically start your training using the methods Hal Leonard's Essential Elements or Klose methods books.Once you have grasped the fundamentals of your instruments and training, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for your first recital performance such as the works of Mozart, Rose, and Benny Goodman etc. However, for the adults or more advanced players, I will try to find out what most interest you and guide my instruction according to your abilities to keep the lessons more engaging and fun. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Music Keyboard

My methods are different for every student, but I always start with fundamentals. This includes scales, exercises to improve sound and intonation, reading, writing, improvisation, and most importantly listening. Depending on the path the student choses, some areas will be focused on more than others. I will often introduce more advanced concepts early if the student displays interest in them. I am not the kind of instructor who will say "play your etudes first and then we can talk about improvisation." I almost quit shortly after I started music because I had an instructor with that outlook. Read More