Saxophone Lessons in Poulsbo, WA

Instruments: Saxophone

If the student has no experience with music or the instrument, I will start them off with the very basics, such as: how to properly put together/take apart your instrument, proper care for the instrument, how to form a supportive and correct embouchure. This will also be accompanied by multiple books, which I usually recommend getting Essential Elements 2000 for complete beginners . We then have a foundation we can build on. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

For wind instruments, I use the Rubank method books for exercises and whatever band method book is used in the student's school. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Keyboard

As much as I discuss with students what to practice, however, I think it’s more important to emphasize how to practice efficiently. The patience and focus needed to execute a song correctly is as much an exercise in meditation as it is about performing music. As I tell my students, the mind is the true instrument. Once they know what the symbols on the chart mean, where their hands have to go, and how a song is supposed to sound, they will have no trouble making music. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

My teaching style when helping out others is being laid back but also making sure that what we assign is being worked on. One thing that I have noticed in myself is that if I try to take more than I can handle, I set myself up for failure so making sure whatever we are working on is enough to keep you practicing until the next time we meet. I also love seeing anyone succeed so when that happens we make sure to be supportive but also make sure if something doesn't sound quite right we take some time to address that and see what we need to do so that next time you come, we are acing the material! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I am happy to curate lesson plans and materials to fit the student. If a student is truly a beginner I believe that starting with fundamentals such as simple major and minor scales is crucial before moving into any type of performance preparation. I believe it is important to incorporate students passions into practice as well, and as such I will encourage students to bring specific songs or works that they aim to learn. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Shakuhachi Conga

I have very high standards for teaching.That is why I did not start teaching until my fourties.At that point I felt that I had both the life experience and skills to be a good teacher.There is a lot more to playing music than just playing the right notes.That is what I call the mechanics of music but the not the soul.Obviously you must start with the basics to get to any deeper level of expression.That is what I am most passionate about.Why does anyone want to play an instrument? Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

I have been teaching for the past ten years. During my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to take music pedagogy classes, which have provided the foundation for my current teaching style. I have worked with all ages of students. My goal as an educator is to provide the students with the tools and resources to accomplish their goals, all while demonstrating the joy and inspiration music can bring. Read More