Saxophone Lessons in Ronkonkoma, NY

Instruments: Saxophone Music

For beginning students, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, along with my own personalized sound and technique exercises. After getting a grasp of the fundamentals - depending on the student's area of interest - I will either begin to introduce classical solo repertoire, jazz theory and transcription or concepts of a style of music the student is particularly interested in otherwise. Music composition is also one of my biggest passions, and I am always willing to introduce the wonderful world of writing your own music to my students, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Music

I discovered at the age of 16, discovered my passion for the saxophone, and I started my training at a small music school in Bologna. Subsequently, I studied with Piero Odorici and attended jazz seminars at "Siena Jazz" and "Jazz Urbino". The seminars are a great opportunity to play in a big band scenario, with musicians such as Paolo Fresu, Enrico Rava, Marco Tamburini, Roberto Rossi, Eddie Henderson, and George Garzone. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

I started teaching music in college through my babysitting network. When the mothers and fathers of the children I cared for found out that I played piano and woodwinds, many of them asked if I would also give their kids private lessons. Having a knack with kids and with music, my music teaching practice quickly blossomed in that small town. I have found that while it's important to keep kids sharp in their ability to read music on the page, it is at least as important to engage their creativity off the page. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums

My teaching includes all aspects of music; Musical theory, sight singing, as well as Music History. My teaching style allows the child to have fun while they learn their instrument, but I emphasize a strong practice regiment. Your child will understand that while learning music and an instrument can be fun, there will be some work involved if they want to become great. I usually use either the Alfred or Rubank method books to supplement a curriculum that I tailor make for each individual student. 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: Saxophone Clarinet

Robert Gilliam is a skilled musician and passionate teacher with a strong background in classical and jazz music. Holding a Bachelor of Music degree from the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University and currently pursuing a Master of Music at The Juilliard School, Robert has studied under renowned saxophonists Tim Green and Ron Blake. With experience as a performer alongside notable musicians and participation in prestigious festivals, Robert brings a wealth of knowledge and stage experience to his teaching. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Bassoon

My goal in teaching woodwinds is to inspire young artists to find the joy in their own development. As a teaching musician for the past nine years, I have found my own joy in teaching on-on-one and watching my students progress over time. I like to teach active lessons full of movement, creation, and student-driven ideas. I teach the instrument - the notes, rhythms, techniques, but my students shine in their ability to use that knowledge to create something new and to feel confident about it. Read More