Saxophone Lessons in Ridgefield, NJ

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Piccolo Oboe

I believe strongly that passion is infectious, and is key to my teaching. I ask all of my student to set realistic goals and treat our progress as a journey in which we will gradually pick up the skills to grow with steady work. This comes from enjoying the “artistic process” and can only be discovered when we move together at a pace that is comfortable for the student. The only requirement I have for any budding musicians is that we both be open-minded and willing to listen using our ears and mind (this goes for me too!). Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Drums Synthesizer Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard

Aquiles Navarro is a New York-based trumpeter, composer and DJ of Panamanian heritage. He derives his sounds from folkloric music, salsa, and reggae. This eclectic music background, based on his upbringing in Panama has led him to collaborate with folkloric musicians, dancers, visual artists, actors, and poets. He studied in Panama with tenor player Carlos Garnett and trumpeter Victor “Vitin” Paz. After moving to the US, he received a Bachelor's degree in Jazz Performance at the New England Conservatory, and a Master’s degree from the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami where he studied with trumpeter Brian Lynch. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I approach each student individually, working with strengths and addressing weaknesses in a relaxed, no-pressure environment. Individual musical interests (such as jazz, pop, classical, or rock genres) are incorporated into each lesson, helping to streamline and facilitate the learning process. Lessons focus on:Beginning students learn to make music from the first lesson starting with simplesongs, and eventually withme joining in playing duets at each lesson. Tone production Finger technique Music notation Rhythm Sight reading Playing by ear Phrasing and interpretation Improvisation At each lesson we work with short term goals, leading to long term improvement. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. I have a unique process when dealing with students because I didn't study privately until I got to college. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Every student responds differently to a method of teaching. Some react better to being challenged while others respond better to encouragement and positive reinforcement. It is my responsibility to find the method for each student and adapt accordingly. Another factor that is not constant among all students is their pace. I make sure that each student has goals that they can achieve at their current level, to avoid extreme frustration and to always keep them moving forward. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Flute Recorder Piccolo Music

Diaz has performed at such venues as Carnegie Hall, Avery Fisher Hall, Alice Tully Hall, Merkin Concert Hall, Le Poisson Rouge, Symphony Space, The Jay Sharp Theatre at the Julliard School of Music, and Kodak Hall at the Eastman School of Music. Luis has performed with the Inter-School Orchestra for numerous years, and has performed with the BAM Philharmonic, the Astoria Symphony Orchestra, “Pershing's Own” US Military Band, Little Orchestra Society and the Manhattan School of Music Symphonic Orchestra. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music

It's important for me to know my students personally! I want to know what other hobbies you have and what inspires you. I can give a little "tough love" when it's required and I like to push my students to apply themselves on their instrument. I also have a growth mindset and acknowledge that everyone learns differently. I want to figure out how each of my students learn optimally. I want to make things achievable and break music down into digestible, accomplishable targets. Read More