Saxophone Lessons in Riva, MD

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For the past decade I have been performing with the U.S. Navy Music Program in places like Australia, Japan, Costa Rica, New Orleans, and Norfolk, Virginia. I've been a featured soloist on clarinet and saxophone with concert bands, jazz bands, rock groups, and brass bands. Before joining the Navy I taught band and woodwind classes for a public school in Northeast Ohio, and I'm excited to begin working with students in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I knew I was going to become a music teacher at the age of ten, so I absolutely understand how much of an impact teachers have on students from a young age. I have been teaching larger ensembles for most of my college years, but have had private students around my school schedule for many years. Finding what motivates the student is key. If the student isn't motivated or doesn't care, then I need to change something! Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Flute Recorder Piccolo Music Keyboard

My materials and methods differ depending on the pupil's age/ability. For a young 11 year old beginner, homework assignments will begin with the instrument itself, and then eventually Book One of any method book desired. Popular practice dictates good results with books like Yamaha and Standard of Excellence. For middle-level ability (middle school / early high school), the Rubank series is perfect. Finally, with middle and above levels; solos, ensemble work, duets, and additional etude books will be used. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Music Keyboard

As an instructor, my job is to give the student every opportunity possible to discover their passion for music. The first lesson is always about providing a safe relaxed tone and finding out where that student's progress is. Not establishing an accurate assessment of their progress can be very destructive because it could cause me to come off as either too demanding or condescending. Depending on what their level is, I will design a custom curriculum to bring their weaknesses to the same level as their strengths. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For young beginners, I generally will start with a beginning method book (such as Hal Leonard's Essential Elements) but the book will depend on the instrument as well. For older students, I want to know what kind of music they enjoy playing or listen to, and guide them along to reach their goals--whether that be to play in a band, write and record an album, or just become a better player! Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Keyboard

At the begining of a lesson I encourage to start by listening and running through the scales and pieces that we last worked on. Make sure they are all well learnt. Before moving on to more scales and next pieces in the selected order at the beginning of class. Aurals are a great way for me to play to my student as they learn more about the selected piece, learn rhythm and also interpreting their selected pieces. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning students, I ask if they are using a specific book in their school program, and will work with that. Otherwise, I will start with the beginning Rubank method book, and move through books containing etudes and exercises of increasing difficulty. These may include folk/popular tunes and lighter classical repertoire. I believe that ensuring that the student enjoys playing is the single most important aspect to learning an instrument. Read More