Saxophone Lessons in Northlake, IL

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Music

I began my musical career playing clarinet and saxophone for the Marine Forces Pacific Band in Honolulu, Hawaii. While serving, I was the concertmaster, clarinet section leader, and leader of the woodwind quintet for a combination of 300+ performances around the world. I also have several years of experience playing saxophone in a Latin big band located in Honolulu, Hawaii - Son Caribe. I've recently moved to Chicago to continue studying music at DePaul University and have been freelancing with local orchestras, opera companies, and churches. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I frequently assign listening homework, and I play audio recordings and videos during lessons that directly pertain to the areas we are focusing on. For example, if we are working on a classical solo piece, the student may watch footage of that piece being performed by a world-renowned saxophonist. This approach helps to keep things interesting and engaging. I will also record the audio of certain lessons so both myself and the student can track improvement. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I'm a professional musician and educator who has lived in Chicagoland with my wife and two boys for the last 18 years. I'm originally from Columbus, Ohio and received my BM from Capital University there. From there I was Music Director for one of Royal Caribbean's ships and then I made the move to Chicago in mid-1996. From then until now I have become one of the top/first call saxophonist/woodwind musicians in the city of Chicago and have performed all over the world with musical lumaries such as Aretha Franklin, The OJays, Brian McKnight, Diana Ross, Al Jarreau, The Temps and dozens of others! Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Ukulele Recorder Music Keyboard

When creating lesson plans for classes or for individual lessons, I customize and design the lessons to fit the needs of the students. I always interview the students and set goals to know where they want to go so that all of our work is geared towards there individual success and improvement. I utilize various methods books depending on the students abilities. I also heavily utilize the Kodaly method and the Orff Method when teaching. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

How I teach is heavily influenced by my wish to hopefully one day pass on the same love and passion I have for music. The purpose of our lessons will be to find which ways of practicing work best for you and help you improve as efficiently as possible. I will focus on making you the best musician and individual you can be. I try to be as flexible as possible with my students. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

For beginning students, I like to start them off with the Essential Elements for band method books. Once they progress with those books and grasp the fundamentals, I would introduce to solo literature. For adults, I find out what they are interested in and work my way from there. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Clarinet

Every student is unique in their ability level, dedication to the instrument/craft, et. al; therefore, I cannot expect that every student will be the next Larry Combs. I do, however, expect that every student take their responsibility for practicing each week, coming prepared to lessons, and being a good student. In lessons, I am kind and personable as anyone should be, but I like to make clear my expectations right from the beginning. Read More