Saxophone Lessons in Palisades Park, NJ

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Recorder Double Bass Music

For beginning woodwind students, I have had success using the Rubank method books as a starter. Alongside a method book, I like to work on material chosen by the student, as well as my own supplemntal exercises. It is important for the student to understand the musical concepts associated with the repertoire, as well as focusing on performing well. I also prefer to have my students keep a practice log book, in order to track their progress. For piano and music theory, I like to use the John Thompson method for beginner students, and the Bastien Piano Literature series for more advanced students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone

I am passionate about playing and studying music, and I would like my students to develop a love for music. I encourage my students to work hard and to improve each week, and I emphasize the importance of the process of learning. This helps my students focus, and it facilitates the achievement of their musical goals. My lessons are also fun and engaging. I try to include fun music, musical games, and teacher-student duets to keep the student interested. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Cello Saxophone Bass Guitar Double Bass Keyboard

During the first lesson, I have a short discussion with the student to see what their goals are. I also ask what about music interests them. I then ask them to perform anything of their choice to assess their ability level (if applicable). After that, I tell them what immediately needs to be addressed and how this will work with their longterm goal. Then, based on their progress, we set benchmark goals that are adjusted according to their pace. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My teaching experience dates back in college. I never thought that teaching would be a passion of mine until I began teaching privately 7 years ago. The first question I like to ask my students is what inspired you to play the saxophone and what are their overall goals. Where do they want to reach and strive for when playing their desired instrument? Based on the students' goals, I will gear my instruction towards my the needs and desires of the student and give them the best experience possible I began teaching students from my church who were eager to learn the saxophone. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

When I teach beginners, I put my faith in the Hal Leonard Standard of Excellence series for woodwinds. For Pianist, the Suzuki series is quite good, as well as A Dozen A Day and the tried and true Mikrokosmos of Bela Bartok. For more advanced players, I like to work within their preferred style, ie RB, Rock, Classical, but also find it important draw relevant material from other styles like Jazz and non-Western music. 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

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music

I started playing in the 4th grade. I played in RB bands in high school and enrolled at Berklee College of Music where I have a Bachelor Degree in Composition. I also studied privately with Charles Banacos (increible piano and jazz teacher), Jerry Bergonzi, Joe Viola, Joe Allard ( whose Saxophone methods I teach, who was the teacher of every major saxophone player in his day including Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, Michael Brecker, and countless others ) , learned circle breathing from Rahsaan Roland Kirk, recorded 2 albums at Grammavision with Al Macdowell (Bass player for 40 years with Ornette Coleman). recodered and learned as much as I could grasp from Don Cherry and Ornette. Read More