Saxophone Lessons in Paris, VA

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I consider myself to be both traditional and old school at certain times, however. I firmly believe that students will lose interest in music quickly if I always teach all students the same techniques and follow conventional music theory. For piano lessons I usually begin without any books until they are comfortable with the weight and the feel of the piano keys. After that I really like to use the John Thompson's piano book grade 1, and I have had many good results with my students in the past. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning elementary and middle school students I usually use Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once my student has a working knowledge of the fundamentals, I introduce music that will build confidence and keep the student's interest. Although I am using a method book, it is just a guide. Along the way, I may supplement the book with other exercises to work on specific techniques. For adults, I first assess my student's skill level, and we talk about goals and a realistic practice schedule. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder

I am always trying to have a fun lesson. I know that some students are in school all day and are tired by the end of the day, so I create obtainable goals for each student. Each week we will be able to see the progress that they have made without feeling discouraged that they did not reach a certain number in their method book. I want all of my students to work hard and I know all of my students can suceed. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students who are children, I begin with method books to teach the fundamentals and establish good practice routines. Once a good foundation is established, I like to move into solo and ensemble repertoire to develop lyricism and expression. For adults, I find out what the students are interested in, and direct my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun regardless of ability level. I have rigorous practice routines for all ability and commitment levels. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Music

Music is supposed to be fun, dynamic, and a way of expression. So I never attach myself or the student to a given program or method, but I offer a tailored program that bettersuits the student needs. I like to explore the student's musical tastes, skills, and to introduce new ones. My teaching methods are a mixture of discovery and practice that may or may not use formal books and methods. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar

As you can see from my profile picture, I have expanded my instrument playing capabilities so that I can teach many different instrument families. I am a current elementary music teacher as well as a private instructor. I am proficient in and can provide basic-intermediate instruction in all instruments listed in my profile. I also have experience teaching each of those instruments. For advanced students preparing for college auditions, I can teach saxophone and jazz piano. Read More

Instruments: Voice Saxophone

In the initial meeting with a student I talk through what they want to accomplish what genre's of music the would like to play and what kind of personality they have. Then I have more of an understanding of what direction to go in to personalize the teaching. I believe very much in the saying "there's only one way to Carnegie Hall PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE". I don't force structure and scales etc. Read More