Saxophone Lessons in Phoenix, IL

Instruments: Saxophone

I am an experienced and enthusiastic musician who enjoys sharing the joy of music with students young and old. I have performed professionally with small jazz ensembles, classical saxophone quartets, show bands (Rita Moreno, Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, and more), orchestras (Madison and Milwaukee Symphonies), big bands (Russ Morgan, Dick Sargent, Paula Carberry, Al Chase, Karlos Moser), and was a founding member of the Madison Arts Players at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

Through the years I have taught a variety of artists in the home or my studio. Most recently I've incorporated Skype to be able to work with more international based students. I'm a huge technology geek and love to incorporate it when applicable. I also teach Electronic Music Production and Performance for Ableton Live. Now that many more people have access to high-speed internet I can work with a more diverse group of people. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I began teaching when I was still a student at Northwestern University. When I graduated in 1986 with an MM degree I began to pursue it full time which took me to many different middle/high schools in the area. I also taught at Lake Forest College as well as Saint Xavier University. In addition, I have also taught many beginners over the years. Other teaching experiences include group lessons, sectionals, master classes, and playing for patients in the oncology wing at Sherman Hospital. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I have been teaching throughout my career as a saxophonist and got my first student in 2007. My students find the best results if they love their instrument and have their own motivation to improve. My role is not only instructing someone to better play saxophone, but being an encouraging and positive force in a student's life. I've seen that when a student gains confidence and discipline, their learning curve typically skyrockets.I know I've done well when my student feels themselves improving and gets excited about meeting their full potential.There are countless styles and sounds in music, and I build a foundation on that equips students to seek out their own musical path. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Music

I typically answer questions with a question of my own. My goal is to always make the student THINK about what they're doing when making music - at all levels. There are few things as rewarding than seeing my students learn. I've learned that everyone enjoys learning new things and especially if it's a difficult idea to grasp. I strive to instill a thirst for knowledge in all of my students because this thirst drives musical growth! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

Along with the guided listening, we would also start with fundamental musical skills. For any instrument, this would include scales and modes, time, and technique, and for saxophone this would also include sound production. I'm primarily a jazz musician, so my lessons would also include developing the ability to improvise. Improvisation doesn't necessarily have to happen in a jazz context, but that's how I would be teaching it. I would have them start working on solo transcriptions (ear training!) because I believe thats the best way to learn how to improvise. Read More