Saxophone Lessons in Ridgetop, TN

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

First, I believe it is important all students have a firm grasp on the fundamentals of the instrument, which may include some scale exercises, for example. Once we achieve a basic level, we can move along to some solo repertoire, etudes, and tunes that target a specific area to keep lessons fun and engaging, all while reaffirming subjects learned previously. Regarding jazz and improvisation, lessons will cover a broad spectrum, ranging from modal improvisation, to bebop and postmodern styles, all while focusing on harmonic functionality and individual expression. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Bass Guitar

No matter the age of the student, I believe in project-based learning: I help my them write songs, make arrangements, record albums, and prepare for recitals. They will develop a respect for the craft of making music, the more creatively involved they are. A list of a couple highly recommended instruction books is given to each student on their first day. This is to help them grasp the basic language of their instrument. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For my beginning students who are children on piano, I typically start with Alfred's Basic piano books. There are so many levels and it helps them understand the basics. With the piano books there are also theory workbooks that give them a chance to think about what they are actually doing when it comes to making music. With the older students on piano, I stick with Alfred's Piano books for adults. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Piccolo Music

Fostering the interest in music into a passion within my students is the ideal teaching situation. This is why I place importance on listening to the student's goals to make decisions for certain parts of the curriculum. There are technical and theoretical skills that must be learned, but the students have some choices in materials. Meeting them where they want to be is some of the strongest motivation I can provide for my students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone

For beginning students, I teach the Rubank Method. For intermediate and advanced students, I teach the Frost School Jazz Method. 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 create engaging lesson plans based on my students interests, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons fulfilling and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Drums

I taught AP music theory while I was IN high school, graduated as the top pianist of one of the top 10 jazz bands in the USA. In college at SMU, I studied finance, but quickly got a double in music, studying classical music under Alfred Mouledous (world renowned pianist) and focusing my free time on jazz. I played and taught at a company called ABMusic in Perth, Australia which taught Indigenous Australians how to assimilate into soceity through the use of music. Read More