Saxophone Lessons in Naperville, IL

Instruments: Saxophone

The most important part of my job as an instructor is listening - to how the student plays, why they play, and what they hope to accomplish. Each student is different - do you want to play just for fun? Advance in your school band? Audition for college entrance? Prepare for a solo recital? Whatever your goals are, I will provide you with the guidance to fulfill them - the practicing is up to you! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Synthesizer Music

Tommy S. currently holds a master's degree in clarinet performance from the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied with Mr. Charles Neidich. Tommy also holds his bachelor's degree from Illinois State University, where he studied with Dr. David Gresham. Tommy has been a winner of the Illinois State University Concerto Competition, the King's Peak International Music Competition, and the Lillian Fuchs Chamber Music Competition. Tommy is currently 3rd/Bass Clarinet for the Peoria Symphony Orchestra. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

During this time, the group went on tour around the midwest and I was able to solo with the group while on that trip. In addition to my on-campus endeavors, I was also a sought-after saxophonist in central Indiana. I was able to play in combos, big bands, and blues bands professionally while working on my studies. Through these experiences, I have been able to travel to Memphis, TN, Baltimore, Maryland, and Nashville, TN, just to name a few. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Harp

Understanding that every student has unique experiences, interests, strengths and weaknesses, I always work to ensure that lessons are to the benefit of the student. Instead of thinking of my role as a director who prescribes a set path, I like to think of private lessons as an opportunity for partnership, where I play the role of facilitator. To do so, I regularly check-in with students to build a lesson structure that works for them. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Piccolo Oboe English Horn

As I said earlier I tend to use the Rubank and Essential Element books in lessons. I start with seeing what the students goals are and making a goal sheet. For instance if a student is interested in Musicals. We will start with our basic warm up and techniques but on top of that I would assign an excerpt from a musical that correlates with the current lesson. So that way the student is working toward their goal and having fun doing so. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I have been a part of the City Music program for the last decade, both in Cleveland and in Boston. Through that, I have been able to both receive and pass on an excellent music education. I was a mentor for younger students when I was college, leading me to be involved in the local high school big bands. I would lead rehearsals, saxophone sectionals, and work one on one with students to make sure they were creatively and mentally engaged and that they knew what areas they could work on to improve. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Euphonium Music Keyboard

Music Education is crucial to the development of todays student for tomorrows world. According to Plato, Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything. The benefits and impact that Music Education has on the lives of children and adults alike are paramount. Unlike any other academic subject, music engages the mind, body, and spirit. Through Music Education, students develop an aesthetic temperament that goes well beyond that of their non-musical counterparts. Read More