Saxophone Lessons in Palatine, IL

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

for the beginner student, we will start off by going through things such as scales, arpeggios, and exercises to build a solid foundation. While doing this, I will have the student pick a song they like, whether it be pop, country, jazz, classical, and begin to learn it by ear to begin to develop solid aural recognition. Once the fundamentals are solid, we will move on to either working on a sonata or concerto or a transcription and a tune (depending on if you are a jazz student or classical). Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Ukulele Recorder Music Keyboard

I am a dedicated music educator focused on innovative ways to engage my students in there learning while utilizing modern technology and proven pedagogical methods to improve my students musical abilities. I graduated from Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin with a Bachelors in Music Education focusing on vocal and general music. I have been performing with bands around the Chicagoland area for many years as a vocalist and as a saxophonist. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I believe every student pursues music for a different reason, so I approach every student with a custom curriculum. For all students I stress the importance of scales, arpeggios, ear training and scale patterns (3rds, 4ths, etc) to improve technical facility from the beginning. For beginners I typically use the Rubank Edute book to begin reading music. All students are introduced to 'Top Tones for the Saxophone' by Rascher early on to improve range, intonation, breath support and tone quality. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Clarinet

My teaching approach focuses primarily on tone production - I think this is the most important fundament to teach young students. I like to use the Hal Leonard Essential Elements or equivalent beginner book (Hovey, Rubank for clarinet) to start the student off, but as they become more advanced, it's important to introduce repertoire to them. I allow the student some individuality here - what kind of music would they like to play? 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 teaching lessons on Sax and Electronic music for over 10 years combined. I love sharing my knowledge and experiences over the years. I have been very fortunate to work with some amazing musicians in my life. I toured with a 14 piece funk band through a good portion of the '90s and I know what it takes to have a successful journey on the road. I love when the "ah ha" moment that happens when I'm teaching. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

90% of being a good saxophonist is the responsibility of the student, and 10% is on the teacher. Even though a student should work hard to improve, I recognize that my 10% is extremely vital. Since my scheduled lesson with a student only represents a fraction of the time they play their horn, I keep it fun, upbeat, and encouraging. If a student is struggling with an assignment, it will be met with kindness and patience. Read More