Saxophone Lessons in Oakdale, NY

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder

Ive been teaching since I graduated from college. As a student, I attended the Jamey Aebersold summer jazz workshops, and was subsequently trained by Mr. Aebersold on how to specifically teach jazz improvisation. I became a teacher at his workshops and have since taught at many others. In 2001, I began teaching at Hoff-Barthelson Music School in Scarsdale, NY, where I taught private lessons to both classical and jazz students, lead jazz ensembles, and conducted ear-training and composition classes. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Accordion

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. Sometime I would bring my soprano or tenor saxophone with me and create music with a student by trying to show him how music works. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I have been teaching woodwind students of all ages for more than 10 years, in a variety of settings from public and private schools, individual and small group lessons and concert band and jazz ensembles. I believe that private lessons are a partnership between the teacher and student, and have found that students thrive when they are  inspired by their lessons and experience the success of mastering a fun, new piece of music. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Piccolo

Honestly, if you name it, I have some experience in playing it. I have competed in different states with both the wind ensemble and jazz band in high school and have held workshops with my college jazz orchestra mentoring saxophone students. I am a composer so I can not only teach how to play an instrument but also how to compose for the instrument and in general. I compose within many genres, from classical to ambient to jazz and hip hop as well as electronic styles. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For beginner students young and old I start out with Rubank Elementary Method for saxophone. This book provided a solid foundation in basic theory and reading that lead to musical literacy. From there I go towards the basics of improvisation in the blues while continuing with technique books on the side. Once this foundation is in place I begin to encourage the student to explore music they're passionate about and start with the basics of solo transcription and more advanced improvisation. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music

I like to make things fun and cater to each student's abilities and needs. I like to work from books with beginning students because music literacy is very important to me. As students develop, I begin ear training and diving deeper into music theory when necessary. I think in order to grow as a musician you need to play music that inspires you and I aim to have all students wanting to practice because they are excited about their repertoire. Read More