Saxophone Lessons in Ridgefield, CT

Instruments: Saxophone

My teaching experience comes from spending a lot of time as a student throughout my educational career and analyzing the approaches that helped me out when I was younger. In college I would often sub for a friend of mine at a local music studio which helped me deal with a variety of different students of varying ages and backgrounds, as well as a few students of my own. I've found that setting small and easily achievable goals in combination with consistent practice is very effective. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I have been privately teaching since 2012, primarily teaching high school students in between classes in college. In 2017 I was offered a Graduate Teaching Assistantship from Florida State University, where I was assigned eight students and two saxophone quartets, as well as teaching the saxophone portion of the Woodwind Fundamentals class that was offered. These opportunities have given me a chance to refine my teaching style to cater to what each student needs, from sight-reading practicing, to playing duets together. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Bass Guitar Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

Depending upon what area/instrument of music I'm teaching, I use a number of different materials, including (but not limited to) Tonal Harmony (Kostka, et al.), Essential Dictionary of Music Notation, Accent on Achievement, Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, or Rock House Method (McCarthy). The skill level of the student also dictates what resources I'll use. In addition, I believe that the student should have control over his/her development as a musician, so I encourage my students to create a list of songs they wish to learn how to play. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Synthesizer Recorder Piccolo Oboe Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

I keep track each week in a notebook of what their assignments are. I use many different books, learning by ear, learning by youtube, learning by rout, and I have developed my own music writing technique which decodes any song at any level to a much easier level because all students are unique, and deserve to have a teacher who can reach them. It is also very important to me that the student picks their own songs to learn as part of the curriculum, and I will help the student discover which style fits them the best. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

This, too, varies based on the individual student. I pride myself on my flexibility, and always try to run my lessons based on what best fits the student's personality and learning style. I always, however, provide a thorough and comprehensive music educationI want my students to understand the music they're learning, not just learn how to play their instrument. And most importantly, I strive to maintain a patient, encouraging learning environment. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My philosphy for all my students is that any student can achieve any goal if they believe in themselves and put in steady effort. One of my major teaching methods involves learning music the student listens to regularly. So much is learned from this process be it technique, time, rhythm, theory, but the most important part is that the students love and understanding of music grows, not just their knowledge. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder

I have enjoyed teaching since High School, when I traveled to teach students by bus. Later I traveled by car to homes to teach, but have only taught in my studio for over 20 years. I find that the lessons are better where I have all of my wealth of music. I try to relate to each student personally, so they feel comfortable, and enjoy their lessons. Some students will respond to certain methods, while others need to be taught differently. Read More